ROOM TO GROW: Master Gardener Extension Volunteers have wide reach

One of the perks of working at the Macon-Bibb County Cooperative Extension office is getting to interact with our wonderful Master Gardener Extension Volunteers (MGEV). The community service our group provides is invaluable to our local community.

Following intensive horticultural training, these volunteers support the Cooperative Extension office in a variety of ways, including answering homeowner questions at local farmer's markets and in the Extension office; teaching elementary students; and maintaining the educational native plant garden at the Museum of Arts and Sciences.

Master Gardener groups can be found across the state dedicating countless hours of service.

Local MGEVs are trained in a multi-county program coordinated through local Cooperative Extension offices in Bibb, Houston and Twiggs counties. Individuals receive intensive training in horticulture, entomology, pathology and related areas. Instructors include University of Georgia specialists, county agents, local professors, arborists and other professionals.

Upon completion of the class, volunteers utilize their expertise and services to educate others throughout Middle Georgia communities.

In February 2016, we will begin training a new group of volunteers. Classes will begin Feb. 4 and will be held from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (most days) each Thursday through April 21. Classes will be held in the Extension offices, with field trips to UGA campuses.

The new class will be composed of students from several Middle Georgia counties. While many classes will be lecture style, we also are planning for a number of tours and experiential learning opportunities.

Upon conclusion of the class, trainees are required to complete 50 hours of volunteer activities to become certified MGEVs. In subsequent years, Master Gardeners must complete 25 hours of volunteer service to maintain their active status.

We are often asked if vast gardening knowledge is a prerequisite of this program. The answer is no! While some basic experience is helpful, what we really look for are enthusiastic people who want to learn and volunteer.

Master Gardeners contribute a wide range of valuable skills, including teaching youth and adult programs, writing and leadership. Many join the program to learn more about gardening. However, the bonds that develop while learning and volunteering together are often the biggest rewards.

After becoming a Master Gardener, you'll have plenty of opportunities. There are chances for continued education throughout the year. Field trips include venues such as farms, nurseries, gardens and college campuses. Monthly Master Gardener updates are organized to keep volunteers aware of upcoming opportunities as well as to offer educational sessions.

The local nonprofit Master Gardener association, the Master Gardeners of Central Georgia, also raises funds through events such as the Spring Home and Garden Show in Perry and biennial plant sales in Macon. These funds are used to support a wide variety of community projects, scholarships and grants.

The fee for the class is $195, which includes two books, materials, name tag and speaker costs. Applications must be postmarked by Dec. 1. Since the class size is limited, interviews will be held in December.

If you are interested in taking the class, contact your local county Extension office. Bibb County residents should contact Kathy at 478-751-6338 or kensley@uga.edu to receive application materials or for more information. Houston County residents should contact Teddie at 478-987-2028 or mg@uga.edu.

Contact Karol Kelly at karolk@uga.edu.

This story was originally published October 21, 2015 at 9:30 PM with the headline "ROOM TO GROW: Master Gardener Extension Volunteers have wide reach ."