Are you interested in gardening? Interested in sharing your gardening interests with others? Are you willing to learn more about gardening and other gardening topics? Can you connect with groups of people? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have the qualities we need in the Extended Master Gardener program.
A.D. By 2020, 2,558 certified Extension Master Gardeners had donated more than 69,789 volunteer hours throughout Minnesota to more than 49,414 residents. These volunteers are dedicated and take the time and effort to continue their education. As a result of the work of teacher gardeners, many people are growing food locally, planting pollen-friendly gardens, and creating landscaping to help control rainwater flow. Applications are now open if you believe you have the skills and desire to become an Extension Master Gardener.
The process of becoming an extension master gardener begins with a course that can be taken online or in person. The main course takes approximately 50 hours to complete and costs $ 320. Financial support is available on a case-by-case basis. If this is an obstacle to your ability to join the program, you can contact your local program coordinator. We look forward to working with you to find a solution that works for all of us.
Extension master gardeners work hard every year to give back to their communities. As a first-year extension master gardener, you set a volunteer period of 50 hours. After that, the number required is 25 hours per year. Many volunteers outnumber the number because they enjoy the program and are emotional. Your local program coordinator and other volunteers will help you find volunteer opportunities in your county. These opportunities may be appropriate for your specific areas of interest.
Now more than ever, master gardeners are meeting with people to share university-based knowledge on the most important priorities for Minnesota residents: horticulture skills, plant biodiversity, pollen, fresh water, environmental food, climate change and nearby nature.
If you are interested in becoming an extension master gardener or learning more about the program, please contact your local extension teacher. Applications are now available, and we look forward to receiving new volunteers by 2022. All applications must be submitted no later than October 1, 2021.
Residents of Nicolelet and Sibili counties can contact Emma Severs at 507-237-4100 or email sever575@umn.edu to discuss local opportunities.
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