(MILAN, Ill.) Take your love of gardening to the next level by becoming a Master Gardener through University of Illinois Extension. Master Gardeners are members of the local community who are interested in gardening and the environment. They participate in an extensive training program and commit to completing a certain number of volunteer hours on horticulture-related community projects each year. They are organized by their local county Extension unit.

The next training for Rock Island, Mercer, Henry, and Stark counties is set for Tuesdays, Feb. 7- April 18. This Hybrid method offers a flipped classroom style, combining independent study with weekly, online live webinars presented by Illinois Extension horticulture educators. Trainees will also work in small groups within the unit to discuss case studies, do hands-on activities, and will also have a few in-person meetings to engage with others in the program.

Register by January 24 to be part of this renowned program and volunteer doing meaningful horticulture-related projects in your community. The cost to attend and receive the training is $225. A scholarship is available. Learn more at: go.illinois.edu/hybridMGTraining or call Tracy Jo Mulliken, horticulture program coordinator, at (309) 756-9978.

Illinois Extension is also offering Gift Certificates for the training - which may be the perfect gift idea for the gardening enthusiasts in your life! Get one at: go.illinois.edu/MGGiftCertificate or call Extension at (309) 756-9978.

University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, contact (309) 756-9978. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting your access needs.