How to Join
Thanks for your interest! Applications are for the 2020 program are now closed. To be notified when applications for 2021 become available (in fall, 2020) please sign up for our occasional eNewsletter The Valley Gardener HERE.
Curious but not sure what to expect?
- Read on for program overview.
- Sign up for The Valley Gardener free eNewsletter to find gardening resources that work for you and be notified when Master Gardener applications start.
- Join us for an event or class. Many are FREE or low cost.
- Find us on Facebook or Instagram to see what Master Gardeners do!
“I decided to become a Master Gardener because I have a passion for growing food and I want to teach people with limited access to fresh, organic produce the skills to grow their own. This process has been everything that I hoped Master Gardening would be.”
--Emily Herb
Master Gardener Volunteer
Photo courtesy of Emily Herb
"Becoming a certified Master Gardener allows me to realize one of my values, community activism, which is built into the program."
-- Pashalle Johnson
Master Gardener Volunteer
Photo courtesy of Pashalle Johnson
“Being a part of the gardening community was like finding my way home. I have loved every minute of being a Master Gardener. Giving back to the community through public service is the core of the program and is personally rewarding.”
– Paula Lupcho
Master Gardener Volunteer
Photo courtesy of Paula Lupcho
Steps to becoming an Extension Master Gardener Volunteer
- Be selected to participate in the Master Gardener course. Applications open TBD fall 2020.
- Complete the Extension Master Gardener course. Class dates: TBD 2021
- Share your knowledge
- Volunteer service: 45 hours by Oct. 31, 2021
- Volunteer on projects and events that deliver horticulture education and information to the public.
- Volunteer and learn alongside experienced Extension Master Gardener volunteer mentors.
- Celebrate!
- When your time as a trainee is completed, you'll start the next calendar year as an active Oregon State University Extension Master Gardener in your community.
- Stay involved
- To maintain your active Extension Master Gardener volunteer status, complete requirements for volunteering and continuing education each year.
