by Kathie
Hopkins
Colorado State University Cooperative Extension
Agent, Horticulture
Larimer County
Q: What is a Master Gardener?
A: A Master Gardener is a trained volunteer who has received specialized gardening education through Colorado State University Extension. Master Gardeners use their training to educate individuals in the community about sustainable gardening practices.
Q: How do I become a Master Gardener?
A: All interested persons must complete an application that is available through their county Extension Office. Applications are reviewed in fall of the year; training is held January through April. There is a November 1st deadline for applications in Front Range counties. Most CSU extension Offices will also interview applicants. Newly accepted candidates must pay a program fee, agree to attend the necessary education and is considered an apprentice for one year
Q: Does a Master Gardener get training?
A: All apprentice Master Gardeners receive at least 60 hours of classroom training. The education is typically held one day a week from 9am to 4pm for ten weeks. After the first year of required training, all Master Gardeners must complete 12 hours per year of continuing education—this can be obtained through various sources such as classes offered at colleges, nurseries, botanical gardens and conferences.
Q: What will I do as a Master Gardener volunteer?
A: The apprentice Master Gardener is obligated to complete 50 hours of volunteer work during the first year in the program. After the first year, Master Gardeners must complete 24 hours/year of volunteer work. This must be done in the county for which the applicant applied for the program. Some volunteer opportunities include answering gardening questions by telephone or email at the Extension Office, assisting with youth gardening projects, helping at local demonstration gardens, teaching gardening classes, and participating in media events such as newspaper articles or radio shows.
Q: Where can I get more information about becoming a Master Gardener?
A: The Colorado Master Gardener web site http://cmg.colostate.edu/index.htm has more information, or call your local Extension Office. The Larimer County Office is currently taking names of interested people for the 2008 training. The Colorado Gardener’s Certificate Program is also an option for those individuals not interested in volunteering. Please call 970/498-6000 for more information.
Gardening and Insect Fact Sheets are available on-line by clicking HERE.
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