||| FROM CAITIE BLETHEN for MASTER GARDENER PROGRAM |||
Are you interested in learning more about horticulture, gardening and becoming a WSU Extension Master Gardener, but don’t quite know what that means? Join us for a Q & A session to learn more.
Upcoming Q & A sessions:
Orcas Island: Wednesday, August 6, 12-2pm at the Orcas Library
Lopez Island: Monday, August 11, 12-2pm at the Lopez Library
San Juan Island: Tuesday, August 26, 12-2pm at Skagit Valley college
On-line: Wednesday, August 27th, 6-7:30pm via zoom
All WSU Extension Master Gardeners (EMGs) receive comprehensive horticulture training from university faculty, staff, and specialists. This training is essential to ensure that all volunteers are equipped with the information needed to support our program’s mission. The training to become an Extension Master Gardener (EMG) volunteer consists of three main components:
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Green School Online Course: this self-paced online course spans 20 weeks, from October 5, 2025, to February 21, 2026. Participants will engage in online classes and review sessions with WSU subject matter experts. Topics covered include vegetable gardening, botany, forest health, plant disease diagnostics, landscape principles, and more.
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In-Person Training and Field Trips: trainees will participate in in-person training sessions and field trips at various locations within San Juan County led by local Extension Master Gardeners and other experts.
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Internship and Volunteer Service: upon completing their training, trainees will move on to their internship phase. As interns, trainees will volunteer alongside certified WSU Extension Master Gardeners, enhancing their knowledge and skills while gaining hands-on experience in community education and program involvement.
The WSU Master Gardener Program is a nationally recognized program that trains volunteers to teach local community members to manage their gardens and landscapes in a science-based, sustainable manner; address environmental and social priorities such as water conservation and water quality protection; reduce the impact of invasive species; and increase public awareness of healthy living by growing food. Information they share is generated from research at WSU and other university systems. Everyone with an interest in gardening and volunteering is welcome and encouraged to apply for the program.
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