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Do you want more information about the Master Gardener Program?

To learn more about being a Master Gardener volunteer, you can read Oregon State University Extension Service publication EM 8749, entitled ‘An Introduction to Being a Master Gardener Volunteer’. You can also access the Master Gardener Program Brochure, EM 8723, ‘The Oregon Master Gardener Program’, to learn more about the program.

How to Become a Master GardenerTM

The Oregon State University Master Gardener™ program in Klamath County emphasizes plant-based education, environmental stewardship, responsible home gardening, and community food partnerships.  Master Gardeners are OSU-trained volunteers who extend research-based gardening information to citizens throughout Klamath County.  Volunteers receive extensive classroom instruction in botany, soil science, insect and disease identification, pruning, organic gardening practices, using pesticides safely, grafting, composting, and a host of other classes specific to gardening in Klamath County.

How do I apply for the 2012 Class?

To become a Master GardenerTM, you need to complete the training program, pass a comprehensive take-home exam, and complete the volunteer hours of public service through the OSU Master Gardener™ program.  To begin, give the Klamath County OSU office a call (541-883-7131) or email and we can add you to the notification list for the 2012 class.  We will contact you sometime in January and you can either download or stop by the office and pick up an application.  After applications are reviewed, applicants may be invited for a short interview.  Please note:  space is limited.  Following acceptance into the program, the Master Gardener trainee begins the core classroom training.  Class topics include botany, soils, vegetables, fruits, flowers, trees, grasses, entomology, and host of other gardening subjects.  Classes are taught by Oregon State University staff and faculty, certified Master Gardeners and local horticulture specialists.  From February 29, 2012 through May 30, classes will be held at the OSU Extension office on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.  The OSU Extension office is located at 3328 Vandenberg Road; Klamath Falls, OR  97603.   Cost of the 13-week training program is $175 (training course plus 40+ volunteer hours), or $350 (training course only).  Click here for a link to the 2012 Trainee application

Upon successful completion of the classroom training units and passing the final exam, trainees become a Master Gardener intern, working alongside veteran Master Gardeners.  The internship consists of fulfilling volunteer hours approximately equal to the number of hours of classroom training received.  During the internship, trainees are paired with veteran Master Gardeners who will assist them through the training program and during volunteer service.  Interns who successfully complete the certification requirements will participate in a graduation ceremony in October.  Certification is good for one year upon graduation.  If you are a veteran Master Gardener, there are various options for re-certification - please contact the OSU Extension office at 541-883-7131 for more information.

Master GardenerTM Volunteer Opportunities

Once the trainee has successfully completed the classroom training program and has become an intern, he or she may begin their volunteer service to meet their certification requirements.  Volunteer hours include a variety of activities.  Some volunteering opportunities include:  Junior Master Gardener summer camp; community gardening projects; staffing plant clinics at the OSU Extension office and during community events; greenhouse education; speaking to local groups about home gardening; working on community beautification projects; working with local schools to enhance horticulture education; answering gardening questions at such events as Migratory Bird Day, Saturday Farmers' Market, Farm Expo, and county fairs.

Who We Are

Master GardenersTM are adults of all ages who enjoy gardening and working with other like-minded individuals.  You may consider applying for the 2012 training if:

  • You are willing to learn about the art and science of gardening and sharing this knowledge with others
  • You have some knowledge or experience in gardening (you do not need to be an expert)
  • You enjoy working with others
  • You are eager to participate in a practical and intensive training program
  • You are willing to demonstrate a commitment to diversity and to ensuring equal opportunity for those wishing to benefit from OSU Extension programs and services

Oregon State University Klamath Basin Research & Extension Center increasingly uses trained volunteers to distribute horticultural information to citizens throughout our county, state, and outlying areas.  We serve Klamath and Lake Counties, as well as areas of northern California. 

OSU Master Gardeners in Klamath County participate in a variety of community programs related to horticulture.

 

OSU also offers an on-line Master GardenerTM training.  For more information click on the following link:

 

More Gardening Resources . . .

For assistance with identifying and controlling plant diseases, insect pests, and weed issues, please visit:

 

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