Become a Master Gardener volunteer
Learn, grow and give back
Do you love gardening, learning, and helping others? The OSU Extension Master Gardener™ volunteer program is a community of gardeners who teach, learn and grow together.
Volunteers receive in-depth training from Oregon State University, then share that knowledge to help others garden successfully in their own communities.
Master Gardener volunteers grow more than plants–they grow community.
What it means to be a Master Gardener volunteer
Being a Master Gardener volunteer is about curiosity, community and service.
As a volunteer, you’ll:
- Learn about plants, soil, pests and sustainable gardening practices
- Help answer questions from local gardeners through plant clinics and events
- Support school and community gardens
- Make connections with people who love gardening as much as you do
Baker County Master Gardener™ Training Program
Thank you for your interest in the Baker County OSU Master Gardener™ Program! Our training combines research-based gardening education with meaningful volunteer service that strengthens our community.
What the program includes
Training has two parts, both required to become a certified OSU Master Gardener:
1. Online coursework
Participants watch OSU Extension horticulture lectures and complete chapter readings. Materials can be viewed at home at your own pace or in person at the OSU Extension Office.
2. Hands-on learning labs
Weekly Learning Labs are offered in person at the OSU Extension Office, with a Zoom option when available. In-person participation provides more time for questions, discussion and program updates.
Training schedule
Lectures and Learning Labs are typically offered February through May.
- Lectures provide foundational horticulture knowledge from OSU experts.
- Learning Labs offer hands-on practice and a chance to connect with fellow trainees.
Volunteer service
To become a certified OSU Master Gardener volunteer, trainees complete volunteer hours that reinforce learning and support community education. All volunteer opportunities are supervised and designed to help you apply what you’ve learned.
If you prefer not to volunteer, you may still take the training and receive a letter of attendance acknowledging classroom completion. Only certified volunteers working with OSU Extension may use the title “Master Gardener,” which is a registered trademark.
Technology needs
Access to email and the internet is required for viewing lectures and completing quizzes. Staff can assist with setting up accounts if needed.
Registration
Registrations and fees must be submitted by the deadline listed on the form.
Submitted in person or by mail:
OSU Extension – Baker County
2600 East St.
Baker City, OR 97814
Or submitted electronically:
Email completed forms to [email protected]
Program fees:
Mail program fees to the address above. Class fee: $150. Includes a textbook (binder not included)
Attendance expectations
Master Gardener training covers a significant amount of material. Attendance at all scheduled sessions—including labs—is expected. Please schedule personal commitments on non-class days.
If an absence is unavoidable, contact the coordinator as soon as possible. Make-up options may be limited, and missing multiple sessions may delay program completion.
