Dr. Christine Jones Named Honorary Extension Master Gardener of the Year

​Reprinted from the Clay County Free Press
April 29, 2025

​​The Braxton/Clay Master Gardeners were proud to nominate Dr. Christine Jones, MD, to be named Honorary Extension Master Gardener of the Year.  Dr. Jones is a visionary physician who understands the importance of physical exercise and the importance of attractive and safe places to walk for the overall health of individuals.

In early 2021, she asked for and received permission from her employer, Community Care of West Virginia, to use a field behind their Big Otter Clinic to develop a walking path that would provide a safe location for exercising while enjoying the beauty of an outdoor pocket park. Dr. Jones sought advice and input from a variety of experts when developing the park, one of which was the Braxton/Clay Master Gardeners.

In September of 2021 a wonderful partnership between Dr. Jones and the Braxton/Clay Master Gardeners began and has resulted in the largest and most visible project for the Master Gardeners.  The Bogg Farm Nature Trail was named the WV Master Gardener Outstanding Project of the Year in 2023.

Dr. Jones continues to develop the once-vacant lot, making it a point of community pride and highlights the successes of local groups working together. This project, guided by Dr. Jones, not only offers the community an opportunity to be healthy, but to learn about native plants which were placed along the path.
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If there was ever someone deserving of this prestigious, statewide recognition, it would be Dr. Christine Jones. Her dream is not complete. There continues to be plans to select unique works of art to further enhance the experience of walking the Boggs Farm Nature Trail.  Congratulations, Dr. Jones and thank you for your contribution to our community.