Rebecca Hayes recently joined UConn Extension as our Middlesex County Master Gardener Coordinator. She’s originally from Preston and has a bachelor’s degree in secondary education and biology from Salve Regina University and a master’s degree in sustainable natural resource management from Unity Environmental University.

What is your area of interest? 

I became a Master Gardener in 2022 when I was looking for more information on how to better grow my own fruits and vegetables, raise my own bees and chickens, and become more self-sustaining. However, I learned much more than just vegetable gardening from the program and have since learned a considerable amount about native plants and how to better support our pollinators and wildlife through the garden. I have always been interested in ecology, but love seeing the impact I can have within my own yard. I became an Advanced Master Gardener in 2024 and also completed Connecticut Forest and Park Association’s Master Woodland Manager program in 2025.

What is your role with UConn Extension? 

I am the Master Gardener Coordinator for Middlesex County. I will be helping to make  sure that our Master Gardeners and interns have the support they need for their public  outreach and in-office diagnostic work. 

What excites you the most about working with UConn Extension? 

I am really excited to join the Master Gardener team and contribute more to the program that has provided me with so many opportunities and connections. I really look  forward to some great conversations and experiences with people who are also passionate about gardening and nature, learning from their experiences as well. 

What is one thing you hope people will learn from you and your work? 

I am very passionate about small changes that make big impacts and I think the Master Gardener program has a big emphasis on what people can do in their little corners to improve their food, their yards, and their local ecosystem.

What is your favorite thing to do in Connecticut? 

I love to go hiking and boating. There are so many natural beauties here in Connecticut to explore. I spend most of my time in New London county where I live, so I am looking forward to exploring more of Middlesex county as well. I also love exploring different museums and places with my kids.

What is the most unusual job you’ve had? 

I get the reaction that high school/middle school science teacher is an unusual job, and I know that I never knew what to expect when I was there. I also used to work for Mad Science when I was in college and got to go around as “Radioactive Rebecca” to different schools and camps, making slime and dissolving Styrofoam cups. In either job, I have gotten some strange looks when carrying a bag of marshmallows and a container full of worms at the same time for various planned activities. 

What are some of your hobbies and other interests? 

I obviously love gardening and being outside. I also love crafting and am involved in  several commissions and groups in my community.