Why Become An Extension Master Gardener?

Becoming an  Extension Master Gardener allows you to participate in many exclusive opportunities:

• Become part of a network of Extension Master Gardeners ... over 50,000 nationwide
• Attend Advanced Courses, workshops, and seminars that detail subjects like landscape planning, pest identification, and composting.
  
• Join numerous gatherings and garden visits where you can meet other Extension Master Gardeners who share your gardening interests.
• Access the entire EMG website for statewide news, events, and volunteer opportunity listings.
• Continue to improve your community through active volunteer projects.
• Share your knowledge across Vermont through education and community activities.
• Promote successful and environmentally safe home horticulture practices.

How do I become an Extension Master Gardener?

To become certified as an Extension Master Gardener (EMG) in Vermont, you must complete two tasks. The first is our thirteen week EMG Course, which covers the fundamentals of home gardening and the plant and soil sciences. The second task is to complete a volunteer internship where you put the knowledge you learn in the classroom to work on community projects.

Training

Faculty from the University of Vermont and Vermont horticulture professionals will teach you the basics of plant science and best practices for a sustainable home landscape. You will learn about soils and soil fertility, plant pests and disease management, fruit and vegetable production, healthy lawn management, annual and perennial culture, caring for shrubs and trees, introduction to landscape design, and invasive pest and plant control. This training is adapted to local needs and the Vermont environment.

Your Commitment

Following completion of the course, in order to earn certification, students are required to volunteer at least 40 hours in approved projects established by your Chapter and/or the EMG State office. Interns must work under the direction of their local Extension Master Gardener Chapter. Any exceptions must be approved by the State Director BEFORE volunteer hours are accrued. Hours earned without prior approval will not be considered towards certification. As an Extension Master Gardener Intern, you might staff educational exhibits at local events and libraries, conduct a workshop in your community, write a column for your local paper, or volunteer on established EMG garden projects. The program coordinator will coach and support your efforts. How you use your time most effectively is a joint decision between you and your coordinator.

Further Opportunities

Becoming certified is the beginning of many great opportunities for Extension Master Gardener members. As an Extension Master Gardener, you will be eligible to attend member only events such as; private garden tours, advanced horticulture lectures, hands-on workshops, and EMG community projects in your local EMG chapter. These activities are a great way to spend time with fellow horticulture enthusiasts while expanding your gardening education!

Are You Extension Master Gardener Material?

To help you decide if you should apply for Extension Master Gardener training, ask yourself the following questions:

• Am I eager to participate in a practical and intensive training program?
• Do I look forward to sharing my knowledge and experience as a volunteer in my community?
• Do I have enough time to attend the training AND serve as a Extension Master Gardener volunteer?

If you answered yes to these questions, the Extension Master Gardener Program may be for you!

Additional Course Details

Click here for additional course details.

Last modified March 14 2013 09:44 AM