What is a Master Gardener?
The Iowa Extension Master Gardener Program is a large volunteer organization coordinated by Iowa State University Extension. Master Gardeners assist with horticulture-related programs and projects sponsored by ISU Extension.
Master Gardeners are individuals who have an interest in horticulture, have taken Master Gardener training offered by the extension service and share their time and expertise with gardeners. It is the acquisition of knowledge, the skill in gardening, and giving back to the community that distinguishes a Master Gardener from other gardeners.
The purpose of the Iowa Master Gardener Program is to provide unbiased, research-based horticultural information to the citizens of Iowa through the volunteer effects of Master Gardeners. Through their participation in educational activities, Master Gardeners also increase their own personal knowledge in horticulture. Master Gardeners are residents of a community who take an active interest in horticulture. They receive training in horticulture through the ISU Extension Service. In return for their training, Master Gardeners volunteer in extension horticulture programs and projects which enhance the community.
The first Master Gardener Program was initiated in Washington State in 1972. In response to overwhelming requests for horticulture information, the extension agent came up with the idea of trading specialized training in horticulture for a commitment to spend a specified number of hours doing volunteer outreach work for extension. In Iowa, the program was iniatated in Scott County in 1977. To date, over 4,000 people, located in 97 of Iowa's 99 counties, have been trained as Master Gardeners.
There are Master Gardener Programs in 45 states and Canada. The National Master Gardener Organization sponsors a conference every other year.
Rewards/Responsibilities
Extesion Master Gardeners will have lots of fun working with other people interested in gardening. They will learn a lot about gardening for their own use. They will feel proud they have taught someone about gardening. They till be covered under Iowa's Tort Liability law when working as a Master Gardener volunteer.
Extension Master Gardeners represent and do volunteer work for Iowa State University Extension. They are expected to give ISU recommendations, especially for pesticide use, and not rely on their own personal experice, that of other, or common garden folklore. They need to say up to date on gardening information and recommendations through continuing education. They will also need to keep in touch with the Warren County Extension Office regarding horticulture progarm needs.
How do I become a Master Gardener?
To become a Master Gardener, you must attend the master gardener class. At the end of the class sessions, participants graduate and become Master Gardener Interns. Interns must volunteer 40 hours of volunteer time in the following year after which they become Active Master Gardeners.
Warren County's Next Master Gardener Intern Training will be available the Fall of 2005. To be included on the waiting list for this class contact Amy Edgington.