The University of Illinois Extension is accepting applications to participate in the 2019 Master Gardener Training Program. Training classes will be held at the Extension office in Elizabeth (204 Vine St., Elizabeth, IL) beginning June 6th. Classes will be 9:00 am – 3:30 pm every Thursday through August 29th. The training classes cover topics such as basic botany, soils health, trees and shrubs, vegetables, fruits, insects, and pesticide safety. 

Master Gardeners are individuals with an interest in horticulture willing to participate in 60 hours of classes taught by University of Illinois Horticulture Educators. After completing the training, volunteers provide 60 hours of service on local projects through the Extension Office. A number of volunteer projects exist in Jo Daviess County which include youth and adult educational programs, garden design and community beautification programs, and a speakers bureau. The cost of the training is $150.00, which covers 60 hours of instruction, a textbook, and other class materials. Applicants will complete an interview prior to the class.

For more information, call the University of Illinois Extension Office in Jo Daviess County at 815-858-2273. Materials are also available on the webpage at http://go.illinois.edu/jsw/.