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Hey, Cobb: Now you can finally train to become a garden docent

Smith-Gilbert Gardens in Kennesaw is looking for docents.
Smith-Gilbert Gardens in Kennesaw is looking for docents.
By Ben Brasch
Sept 20, 2017

If you’ve ever stood in awe of garden tour guides, you might be able to join their elite ranks.

Kennesaw's Smith-Gilbert Gardens is offering a docent training course for those interested in volunteering.

“This is an excellent opportunity for retired teachers or anyone who loves people to spend quality time with bright-eyed children and adults hungry for information,” said Ann Parsons, executive director for the gardens, in a news release.

Cobb garden holding first fall tree sale with rare varieties

The course starts Oct. 2 and will run for five weeks at the garden, 2382 Pine Mountain Road. During that time, would-be docents will learn about plants, flowers and sculptures in the 16-acre garden along with history of the grounds.

“There is great reward in educating and opening eyes to the wonder and excitement only found in nature,” Parsons said.

But not just anyone can be a garden docent. Applicants will undergo a background check and drug screening.

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In other news:

The Department of Agriculture says rainwater from Tropical Storm Irma tainted the tanks at nearly two-dozen gas stations across Georgia.

About the Author

Ben Brasch is the reporter tasked with keeping Fulton County government accountable. The Florida native moved to Atlanta for a job with The AJC. If there's something important to you going on in Fulton, he wants to know about it. Help him better metro Atlanta by dropping a line, anonymously or otherwise.

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