Today we’d like to introduce you to Julie Mockler.
Hi Julie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
The Duluth Garden Flower Society (DGFS) was founded in 1928 by Mrs. Rebecca Boyington with the mission as beautify public spaces in the Duluth, Minnesota/Superior, Wisconsin area by volunteer member garden clubs. The vision or the organization is to advance the love of gardening with special projects such as, but not limited to, garden events, educational programming, cooperative gardening, and aid in the protection of forest, wild flowers, bird, and pollinators. There have been as many as 23 garden clubs with as many gardens taken care of by these clubs. Due to aging out, etc. there are currently about 18 clubs. DGFS is the parent organization to these clubs which holds several meetings throughout the year. One of the most utilized event is the annual plant sale where clubs bring plant divisions and items related to gardening and is usually held the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. DGFS belongs to the 8th District Minnesota State Horticultural Society and provides funding for a scholarship given out at the 8th District’s spring meeting to a student interested or working in some type of horticulture project or event.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road has not been smooth as the membership fluctuates as the membership of each club fluctuates. It has been more difficult as we move along as the younger generation tends not to join in clubs and commit time to same. DGFS tends to be more of a beautification organization and grows flowers and perennials and not so much fruits and vegetables.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I was the secretary for the Duluth Garden Flower Society for 14 years. I volunteered to do so because in my work life I was a secretary for 42 years for the City of Duluth. The term for this position was supposed to have been only for four years max. It has been difficult to get new volunteers for the officer roles. Newer members do not want to commit and older members have done these roles previously and are not interested in being one again.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
The Duluth Garden Flower Society has a web page at www.dgfs.org. DGFS also is on Facebook and Instagram.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.dgfs.org
- Instagram: Duluth Garden Flower Society is on Instagram
- Facebook: Duluth Garden Flower Society is on Facebook
