We’re two weeks away from the deadline to apply for a scholarship for the Fall 2014 Master Gardener Training Program. Applications must be received by August 6th. Follow this link to download the application.*

The Leelanau County Master Gardener Volunteer Program offers financial assistance to help defray enrollment costs for a limited number of individuals demonstrating need. Funding may be requested to cover any percentage of the $300 enrollment fee (Awards are typically $150). Funds derive from donations by current Master Gardeners and are matched by MSU Extension Leelanau. Eligibility is based on income.

To apply, download and submit the application form by August 6th, briefly stating why you wish to take the Master Gardener Training Program and why you wish to be considered for financial assistance. To learn more about the Master Gardener Program, visit http://events.anr.msu.edu/event.cfm?folder=f2014traversecitymgp.

About the Master Gardener Program

The Michigan Master Gardener Program (MGP) is offered by Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) and provides home gardening information to Michigan residents through a network of trained Master Gardener volunteers. All you need to get involved in the MGP is an interest in plants, a personal commitment to volunteering and an enthusiasm for sharing your knowledge with others.

During the last 35 years, more than 30,000 Michigan residents have taken part in the Master Gardener Program (MGP), improving their communities through gardening, teaching thousands of children, adults and senior citizens the joy of gardening, learning how to garden using environmentally sustainable practices and making lifelong friends.

The MSU Extension Master Gardener Program connects gardeners across the state to Michigan State University’s faculty and resources. Participants have access to information generated at one of the nation’s top plant science teaching and research universities and the chance to use this knowledge to improve their communities and enrich their lives.

Master Gardener volunteers start by completing a 14-session course that provides a solid knowledge base grounded in university-generated data. Training is offered through MSU Extension and covers the topics of Introduction & Volunteerism, Plant Science, Soil Science, Integrated Pest Management, Diagnostics for Master Gardeners, Annual and Perennial Flowers, Woody Plants, Lawns, Vegetable, Small Fruit, Tree Fruit, Indoor Plants, Household and Nuisance Pest, and Gardening Practices to Protect Water Quality.

An Opportunity to Serve

After completing the course, Master Gardener trainees must complete 40 hours of horticulture-related service within one year to earn their Master Gardener certification. That community service may include:

•      working with students to design an elementary school garden

•      creating a horticulture therapy program at a senior center

•      helping a neighborhood association create an urban garden.

•      Sharing environmentally-friendly gardening practices at community events

•      Establishing vegetable gardens to meet local nutritional needs

•      Beautifying community sites for special events or community activities that attract local residents and tourists

Community based MGP coordinators and facilitators assist trainees in exploring opportunities that meet their interests, schedules and comfort levels. Most of all, Master Gardener trainees get the chance to get outdoors and spend time with other gardening enthusiasts in challenging and rewarding activities.

Connecting with Others

Master Gardener volunteers love to have fun! Many gardeners establish lifelong friendships and connections when they join local programs that beautify their community and bring personal fulfillment and satisfaction. Many counties offer ongoing educational programs, garden tours, lectures and other social activities in which volunteers learn and share their knowledge while interacting with others.

Next Steps

The Master Gardener Program welcomes anyone interested in learning about gardening, community service and working with other volunteers. No prior knowledge or experience in gardening is required. Join this exciting program by participating in the fall 2014 training session in the Traverse City area. Registration must be completed online anytime before August 21, 2013 at the following website:  http://events.anr.msu.edu/event.cfm?folder=f2014traversecitymgp.

Scholarships

Need-based scholarships are available to help defray costs for qualified applicants. Your application for a scholarship must be received by Wednesday, August 6th. Download the scholarship application at the enrollment website, or contact MSUE for more information.

Fall, 2014 MSUE Master Gardener Program in the Traverse City area

August 28th – December 4th, 2013
Thursdays from 4:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Northwest Michigan Horticultural Research Center
6686 S. Center Highway
Traverse City, MI  49684
Cost: $300.00 (includes the 1,000-page training manual, speakers and facilities)

Scholarships are available.

For more information, contact:

Matthew Bertrand, Master Gardener Volunteer Coordinator
Leelanau MSU Extension office
phone: 231-256-9888
email:  bertra28@anr.msu.edu

More detailed information and registration information is available online at:  www.msue.msu.edu/leelanau and http://events.anr.msu.edu/event.cfm?folder=f2014traversecitymgp.

* Michigan State University Extension programs are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. Persons with disabilities have the right to request and receive reasonable accommodations. Accommodations for persons with disabilities may be requested by contacting MSUE Leelanau at least one week before  the program begins to make arrangements. Requests received after this date will be fulfilled when possible.

No Comments