For those fascinated by gardening, and who enjoy volunteering and sharing their gardening knowledge with others, the Penn State Master Gardener volunteer program may be of interest.
Penn State Master Gardeners are volunteers extensively trained in horticulture by Penn State Extension. Master Gardeners assist Extension staff by providing and expanding educational programs in consumer horticulture for the residents of Bucks County.
The online public information session “Becoming a Master Gardener” is set for Friday, July 17, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Master Gardener Coordinator Kathleen Connally will lead the presentation, followed by a Q&A session and panel discussion with several active Bucks County Master Gardeners. During this presentation, attendees will learn about the Master Gardener basic training course, how to apply to the program, the course fee, the interview/selection process and volunteer opportunities.
The online public information session is free, but registration is required. Visit extension.psu.edu/master-gardener-training-information-webinar-for-bucks-county to register.
Applications to join the Penn State Master Gardener program basic training course will be accepted until Friday, July 30. This year, the Bucks County Master Gardener program is expanding its countywide coverage and volunteer projects will be focused in Lower Bucks County. Selection of students for the 2020 basic training course will be prioritized by an ability to volunteer in Lower Bucks County.
Master Gardener basic training classes will be held on Thursday evenings, from 5:45 to 8:45 p.m., beginning Oct. 1 and ending March 25, 2021, with a final exam. There are no classes during the weeks of Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Due to coronavirus safety concerns, all classes will be held online. Access to an internet connection and a computer, tablet or smartphone is necessary to complete the course.
Master Gardener trainees can immediately begin participating in Extension-approved volunteer activities to meet a first-year requirement of 50 hours of volunteer service. After the 50 hours are achieved, trainees receive their Master Gardener certification.
With a mission in consumer horticulture education, the Penn State Master Gardeners of Bucks County volunteer for youth programs, demonstration gardens, community gardens, plant sales, gardening workshops, on the Bucks County Garden Hotline and in many other ways.
Penn State programs are open to all, and Penn State is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity and the diversity of its workforce.
