How to Become a NC Extension Master Gardener℠ Volunteer in Union County

** The 2021 North Carolina Extension Master Gardener Training in Union County will begin with two Information Sessions at the end of January via Zoom. The Extension Gardener series of classes that begin in February will also be held via Zoom and are a prerequisite for the Core Training in the Fall. Please send an email to dddillio@ncsu.edu if you would like to receive notification and information for the 2021 EMGV training.

NC Extension Master Gardener℠ volunteers of Union County work with NC State Extension to provide gardeners with unbiased, science-based information on sustainable gardening, lawn, and landscape practices.

Under the guidance of N.C. Cooperative Extension agents, volunteers complete an intensive (but fun), hands-on training program, pass an examination, and complete a 50-hour internship with N.C. Cooperative Extension in Union County. To remain active in the program volunteers must log a minimum of 25 hours of volunteer service and 15 hours of continuing education each year.

To help you decide if you should apply to become an Extension Master Gardener volunteer of Union County, consider these questions:

• Do I want to learn more about growing many types of plants?
• Am I eager to participate in a practical and intense training program?
• Do I look forward to sharing my knowledge with people in my community?
• Do I have enough time to attend training sessions and to serve as a volunteer?

No previous training is necessary to become an Extension Master Gardener volunteer of Union County, just a passion for gardening and a desire to volunteer in your community. Benefits of serving as an Extension Master Gardener volunteer of Union County include:

• Learn from outstanding horticulture experts
• Become knowledgeable and skilled in a variety of gardening subjects
• Teach others about sustainable gardening, lawns, and landscapes
• Help gardeners solve problems
• Learn how to identify and diagnose common diseases and insects
• Work with others who share your interests
• Continue to learn through workshops, field trips, conferences, and hands-on training
• Lead environmental education efforts in schools and neighborhoods
• Transform yards, people and communities

LEARN MORE!

• Frequently Asked Questions about the Extension Master Gardener Program in Union County
• 2021 Extension Master Gardener Training Schedule
• 2021 EMGV Program Application
• Volunteer Opportunities for Master Gardener Volunteers

Have questions or want to receive an application packet by mail? Contact

Debbie_dillion@ncsu.edu or by calling 704-283-3729