Why become a Master Gardener Volunteer?

The answer is different for each individual but some of the reasons many of us become volunteers are:

1. Meeting other people who love gardening.

2. Sharing horticultural information.

3. Because gardening renews and refreshes us.

How do I become a Master Gardener Volunteer?

Master Gardener Volunteer Training Program –  This program provides horticultural training to adults who, in turn, volunteer for Eau Claire County UW-Madison Division of Extension. The goal is to connect people with resources and research-based information to help people better understand horticulture and their environment.

Acceptance into the program includes passing a background check, approval of application, and signing a volunteer agreement.

Contact the UW-Extension Office at  715-839-4712 or by emailing Andy.Heren@co.eau-claire.wi.us for dates of area Master Gardener Training.
 

Course topics include:

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• Pest management of mammals, insects, and diseases.

• Lawn care, fruits, vegetable, and tree care.

• General gardening practices.

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The training is designed to focus on current volunteer project needs including: youth gardening and Ask-A-Master-Gardener Booth. Other volunteer opportunities are available. An educational emphasis must be a component of a volunteer project.

Maintaining volunteer status with UW-Extension’s Master Gardener Volunteer Program includes providing a minimum of 24 volunteer hours and 10 hours of continuing education.

How do I get my volunteer hours?

• Answer horticulture questions at the UW-Extension office.

• Youth Gardens at North River Front.

• Community Gardens.

•  Ask-A-Master –Gardener-Booth at the Farmers Market in Eau Claire.

• Extension Teaching Garden in Altoona.

• Writing articles for the Eau Claire Area Master Gardener Association newsletter.

• Master Gardener Plant Sale.    

• Eau Claire Area  Master Gardener Association Board.

• Winter Garden Seminar.

•  Wisconsin Master Gardener Association (WIMGA) Board member or Local Representative.

• Schlegelmilch Garden.

• Beaver Creek Reserve.

• Giving  horticultural presentations.

• Working with school gardens or other environmental education programs.

• Giving garden tours that have an educational component.

• 4-H educational programs focusing on horticulture and natural resource sciences.

Become a Master Gardener Volunteer

Contact the UW-Extension Office at 715-839-4712 or by emailing wimastergardener@extensnion.wisc.edu for dates of area Master Gardener Training.