Ohio

Ohio AgrAbility Disability Services Coordinator Laura Akgerman was invited to lead a "Gardening with Arthritis and Universal Design in Gardening" workshop for Master Gardeners in Dayton, Ohio. The workshop was an opportunity to share the AgrAbility program with urban gardeners, and to explain ways to integrate universal design principles into their garden and workspace. The attendees were especially interested in information about preventing secondary injuries and exacerbation of arthritis while continuing to garden. Several of the participants shared personal experiences with arthritis or injuries and the resulting "forced slow-down" of their outdoor activities. They were encouraged to see examples of ergonomic tools, assistive devices, and raised garden beds. Although Master Gardeners are not a primary audience for the AgrAbility program, the opportunity to share AgrAbility resources and help keep gardeners gardening was a welcome addition to Ohio's state program. OH AgrAbility has plans to continue educational outreach to this population.

Submitted by Laura Akgerman