Oregon Master Gardener Association (OMGA)
The Oregon Master Gardener™ Association is a statewide, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose purpose is to enhance and support the OSU Master Gardener™ program. The county Master Gardener chapters together make up the state association. OMGA is comprised of representatives of each of the county chapters, as well as state officers. Quarterly OMGA meetings are held at various locations around the state.
The Oregon Master Gardener™ Association (OMGA) serves four main functions as part of the Oregon Master Gardener Program:
- To enhance and supplement the Oregon State University Home Horticulture Program.
- To assume responsibility for performing special tasks and engaging in continuous activities related to the program.
- To promote a wide dissemination of information available as a result of University study and experimentation. Such information shall be in accordance with Oregon State University standards.
- To work with other gardening organizations to enhance gardening in Oregon, when appropriate.
OMGA sponsors a newsletter, which is printed and distributed three times per year, an annual conference (Gardener Mini-College), and annual awards celebrating individual and chapter accomplishments.
In addition, OMGA, in cooperation with the OSU Extension Service, oversees the Karl Carlson Memorial Fund. The Karl Carlson Memorial Fund commemorates the life and work of Dr. Karl Carlson, and serves as a tribute to his dedication to the Oregon Master Gardener Association, and to the Oregon State University Extension Service.
The purpose of the fund is to enhance the Oregon State University Urban Horticulture Program in the state of Oregon, by making available Oregon Master GardenerTM funds to help OSU Master Gardener Chapters, in the following ways:
- In the establishment of new OSU Master Gardener Chapters.
- To assist new or struggling OSU Master Gardener Chapters become better established.
- In the implementation of new programs or projects related to urban horticulture, when financial assistance is needed.
Financial assistance for any of the above-described programs may be in the form of an outright grant, or a zero interest loan. For more information on Dr. Karl Carlson, and the Karl Carlson Memorial Fund, please check out the linked brochure. To apply for a grant or loan through the Karl Carlson Memorial Fund, please fill out an application.
OMGA Quarterly Meetings: A list of the quarterly Executive Board and Board meetings, with a link to meeting minutes (when available).
FAQ: Are you confused about the difference between the Executive Board and the Board? Are you confused about the relationship between OMGA and your local Master Gardener chapter?