OMGA Elected Members
President – Chris Rusch (Douglas County)
Chris is retired from the Forest Service where she worked for 35 years as a Silviculturist and Botanist on the Umpqua National Forest. She been a Master Gardener for ten years, has served in many capacities, and is currently the Past President for the Douglas County Chapter. An active volunteer, she serves her community with the South Umpqua Rural Community Partnership, “Tiller Trails” guiding educational hikes in the upper South Umpqua, and is a board member of the Glide Wildflower Council.
Vice President – Leslie Ray (Washington County)
President-Elect – Vacant
Past President – Eric Bosler (Central Gorge)
MG since 2009, joined the Central Gorge group during construction of their home in White Salmon. Past experience in agri-business and interaction with Extension created an appreciation of the effectiveness of the mission that the MG Program facilitates – combining a love of gardening and strong commitment to community outreach and education. He has served as Chapter President, State Rep., and chairs the OMGA Extension Educator Grant Committee. His goal is to further OMGA’s commitment to assisting the local chapters in their horticultural outreach.
Treasurer – Patrice Sipos
Secretary – Cary Wasem-Varela
I am an ESL (English as a second language) teacher grades k-8. I’m in my 33rd year of teaching and beginning to look towards retirement. I am an herbalist and have an herbal products business. I grow and forage most of the herbs I use. My husband and I spend many summer days gardening things like comfrey and calendula or out roaming the forest for arnica, st John’s wort, wild rose petals and many more amazing plants!
OMGA Appointed Positions / Board Members
Historian – Linda Coakley, Yamhill County
Gardener’s Pen Newsletter Editor – Ann Kinkley (Linn County)
Database Manager – Missy Bright (Clatsop County)
Advisor – Statewide coordinator of the OSU Master Gardener Program – Dr. Leslie Madsen
OMGA Appointed Members
Send-A-Friend – Eric Bosler (Central Gorge) – Job Description
Karl Carlson Memorial Fund – Barbara Casteel (Tillamook County)
Extension Educator Grant – Chris Rusch (Douglas County) – Job Description
Marje Luce Search for Excellence – Marcia Sherry (Yamhill County)
Silent Auction – Paula Lupcho (Benton County)
Longevity Recognitions – Marcia Sherry (Yamhill County)
Advocacy Committee Chair – Laura Strom (Lincoln County)
Webmaster – Jim Parks
While Jim himself isn’t a master gardener, both his wife and father-in-law have been active members from Marion County for many years. If he isn’t working or building websites he can be found on a golf course nearby.
