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The next Master Gardener Volunteer Training Class serving Leelanau, Grand Traverse, and Benzie Counties is planned for the Spring of 2010, from March 11-May 27th. For additional information and registration materials, see bottom of this page.
As of May 9th, 2008, the Leelanau, Benzie, Grand Traverse Region was served by 169 active Master Gardener Volunteers, contributing over 4,300 hours of volunteer service to our region. Click here for a list of our volunteers, and more information about their accomplishments!! Thank you volunteers for all you do!!
Master Gardeners, "Helping People Grow"
History of the Master Gardener Volunteer Program
The Master Gardener Volunteer Program originated at Washington State University in 1972. It has since grown to over 600 programs in 46 states, the District of Columbia and several Canadian provinces.
Michigan State University Extension created and held its first Master Gardener Volunteer program in 1978. Today, more than 23,000 residents from more than 72 Michigan counties have earned and enjoy the “Master Gardener” designation. The Master Gardener Program was initiated in Northwest Lower Michigan in 1993, and has since trained more than 410 area residents.
What Is The Master Gardener Program?
The program is available to all citizens of Michigan and is designed to develop a cadre of Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) volunteers trained in horticulture. Their knowledge and skills related to basic plant science and home gardening enables these volunteers to improve the quality of life in their communities. This is accomplished by increasing people's appreciation for and use of plants and by providing them with instruction on growing plants using environmentally sound practices.
Who Can Become A Master Gardener?
An individual interested in becoming a Master Gardener should possess the following qualifications:
- A strong interest in horticulture and home gardening.
- Willingness and availability to undertake extensive training in consumer horticulture practices.
- Willingness and ability to provide 40 hours of horticulture-related volunteer community service as approved by MSUE.
- Ability to communicate and share knowledge effectively and diplomatically with others.
- Willingness to support MSUE staff in giving citizens up-to-date consumer horticulture information.
How Can I Become A Master Gardener Volunteer?
To become a certified Master Gardener you must attend all of the training sessions, pass a take-home exam and perform 40 hours of related volunteer service. Some examples of volunteer projects are the Children’s Garden at the Traverse City Area Public Library, the Leelanau Community Garden, providing gardening information and answering questions at the Extension office, or coordinating a Jr. Master Gardener program. There are many, many volunteer opportunities available!
When & Where Is The Master Gardener Class Offered?
The next Leelanau/Grand Traverse/Benzie Region Master Gardener Program will be offered Wednesday evenings from 6-9:30 PM, starting March 18th and run through May 27th, 2008. The 11 session course will be held at the Northwest Michigan Horticultural Station (6686 South Center Highway/County Rd. 633), located in Bingham Township (See Map with directions). The course provides an overview of a variety of horticultural topics including:
- Introduction to Plant Science
- Soils & Composting
- Vegetable Culture
- Flower Gardening
- Lawn Care
- Small Fruit (Berries & Grapes)
- Tree Fruit
- Plant Health & Integrated Pest Management
- Indoor Plants
- Household Pests
- Woody Ornamentals
- Water Quality/Groundwater Stewardship
In 2009, the training program was offered on Wednesday evenings (6-9:30 PM) from March 18th to May 27th. The 2010 program is planned for March 11-May 27th, 2010. Applications for the Spring 2010 program will be accepted any time through March 4, 2010. (Space fills up, so please don't wait til the last minute- the class size is limited to 40.) A deposit of $100 is required at time of application. Financial assistance is available. If you would like to know more about the Master Gardener Program, please contact Pam Schmidt, Master Gardener Program Coordinator for Leelanau, Benzie, and Grand Traverse Counties, at 231-256-8323, or schmi345@msu.edu.
Downloadable PDFs
Brochure Containing Class Schedule
Master Gardener Program Registration Materials
Financial Assistance Form - please turn in before Feb. 28, 2009 for full consideration.
Questions??
Please contact Pam Schmidt, Master Gardener Volunteer Coordinator, at the Leelanau MSU Extension office, at 231-256-8323, or email schmi345@msu.edu.
For Additional Information, Visit the Michigan Master Gardener Homepage: http://web1.msue.msu.edu/mastergardener/
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