MSHS 12th District ‘Crystal Leaf’ horticultural awards

The Minnesota State Horticultural Society 12th District awarded their annual Crystal Leaf Awards at their fall meeting held on Oct. 17 in Shevlin. Area individuals are awarded a Crystal Leaf and Certificate for their contributions to “advancing the knowledge, science and appreciation of horticulture within the communities in our district.”   Garden clubs in the district select an individual to be recognized in their community and give the award jointly with the MSHS 12th District.  
● Maggie Schwegman, of Bemidji, is a Beltrami County Master Gardener and editor of “The Root” for 12th District members. She reorganized and revitalized the Bemidji Garden Club as president in 2006 and is dedicated to the support of horticultural activities and projects in Bemidji and encouraged many others to get involved in horticulture.
● Sharon Kuechenmeister, of Blackduck, is a registered nurse that has shared her heart with the garden club including beautification of the Wayside Rest area, the information booth, Veterans’ Memorial, Senior Center and downtown flower pots.  She is committed to the team spirit in planning, planting and maintaining these flowered works of art.
● Steve Mortensen, of Cass Lake, is the Director of Fisheries, Wildlife and Plants with the Leech Lake Reservation Department of Resource Management and coordinated the bluebird project by building and placing hundreds of houses with the help of 4-H and community members.  He has also produced educational videos featuring endangered wildlife and plant species.
● Sally Shearer, of Park Rapids, has been a crucial volunteer for numerous local horticultural projects.   She has dedicated years of serving the community as Hubbard County Program Coordinator providing education to the home grower and small farmer with a focus on sustainable farming, nutrition and water quality.
● June Ward, Shevlin, dedicated to improving and sharing horticulture as a garden club member for 20 years, attends 12th District meetings, helps with annual Flower Show and for years has been the Superintendent of the Produce Dept. at the Clearwater County Fair.
Pictured from left to right are Trudy Overmeyer, accepting award for Sally Shearer; June Ward, Carrie Schwegman-Norum, accepting award for Maggie Schwegman; Steve Mortensen and Sharon Kuechenmeister.