The Master Gardener Program trains garden enthusiasts to learn, grow, and teach others about plants and gardening in the home landscape. Participants receive 40 hours of training via webcasting, face-to-face, and hands-on workshops, while interacting with others of similar interests. After completing their training, Master Gardener Interns volunteer 40 hours of service in county approved projects related to gardening education to become active Master Gardeners. To maintain active status, Master Gardeners must attend at least 10 hours of county approved continuing education and volunteer at least 20 hours of service on county approved projects.

If you have an interest in gardening and would like to volunteer in your community, consider joining the Iowa Master Gardener program. Whether you are a long-term veteran of gardening or a novice, you are welcome to join.
A total of 17 educational modules will be offered on topics that include houseplants, pollinators, vegetables, and perennial flowers. Each course module includes a book chapter, lecture video, online discussion board, and a quiz. The materials are set up so that participants can work through the course at their own pace, on their own time.
IMPORTANT DATES:
- August 18 Applications due
- September 5 Online materials available
- September 15 Pre-test due
- November 10 Online portion ends
- November 18 Post-test due
For additional information, please contact the Boone County ISU Extension and Outreach Office located at 1327 SE Marshall Street in Boone or by email to Jessie Soderstrum at jlsoder@iastate.edu or by phone 515-432-3882 ext 1.
Volunteer Now

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach of Boone County has numerous volunteer opportunities. If you have a passion for our mission, we'd be happy to match your skills with our need for volunteers. We look forward to having you join our team to share your time, passion and skills with our programs.
Click below for more details about each of our local volunteer opportunities.