EXTENSION IS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR MASTER GARDENER TRAINING
University of Illinois Extension will be hosting training this spring at John A. Logan College for the next cohort of Master Gardeners.
The mission of the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener program is "helping others learn to grow." Master Gardeners assist individuals in improving their quality of life by helping them find sound management practices for home and urban natural resources, by creating aesthetically pleasing environments, by promoting well-being through people-plant interactions and horticultural therapy, and by contributing to a safe, abundant food supply through home fruit and vegetable production.
Spring training will be held Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. from August 18 through November 3, 2020 at the Mees Center at John A. Logan College. Some of the course topics include botany, organic gardening, soils, insects, diseases, and vegetables and fruits.
Following the training, participants complete a 60-hour volunteer internship within two years to become certified Master Gardeners. After certification, volunteers continue learning and volunteering to remain active Master Gardeners by completing 10 hours of continuing education and 30 hours of volunteering each year.
Applications are due and can be found online at https://extension.illinois.edu/fjprw/master-gardeners under the steps for joining tab. Acceptance into the program will require a mandatory background check and an informal in-person interview. The program has a $200 fee, which covers the cost of twelve-week training and manual. Extension has limited fund assistance available for residents of Alexander, Johnson, Union, Massac, and Pulaski counties, if the course fee is a barrier. If you have questions about the program or fund assistance, contact Erin Garrett at emedvecz@illinois.edu or (618) 833-6363.
University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in any of our programs, please contact your local county extension office. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting access needs.
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