Congratulations on joining the OSU Extension Master Gardener program! We look forward to having you become a part of the Extension community! The purpose of this page is to provide answers to frequently asked questions and serve as a reference during your first year in the program. Please explore other pages on the website for volunteer opportunities and general references on the Master Gardener program. Enjoy your Master Gardener Journey!
Staying in Touch and Getting Help
Have questions or need a hand?
- If your county has volunteer mentors, reach out to them.
- Email program staff: elizabeth.records@oregonstate.edu
- Schedule an informal chat – with program staff, by Zoom or phone, or by prior arrangement in person.
2023 Volunteering and Graduation Checklist
- Complete the online modules and pass all online quizzes (score >70%)
- Attend three in-person sessions (February)
- Attend at least four Garden Labs (various dates March-September)
- Complete 45 volunteer hours in these categories by October 31:
- At least 25 hours of plant clinic*
- At least 5 hours of service to a Master Gardener Association project based in your home county
- At least 5 hours of educational writing or teaching/facilitating (any combination or substitute more plant clinic)
- 10 hours of your choice of at least 2 different approved projects.
- See eNews and volunteer guide for opportunities including community science, event support, and more.
- Enter your completed volunteer hours into the online system by October 31
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Membership in county Master Gardener Associations
The Oregon Master Gardener Association (OMGA), a statewide 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was formed in 1982 to enhance and support the activities of Oregon’s Extension Master Gardener Program. OMGA and its county chapter associations enhance and support the OSU Extension Master Gardener Program by assisting in the continuing education of Master Gardeners, providing educational programs to members at monthly meetings, and organizing other education events such as educational symposia, garden tours, and nursery visits. OMGA chapters also serve as a social center for Master Gardeners, and as a clearinghouse for projects and planning of OSU-sanctioned educational outreach programs.
During your first year as a Master Gardener trainee, you are given free membership into OMGA and your local chapter. After that, you must pay dues to remain a member. Joining OMGA and your local chapter is not required to be an OSU Extension Master Gardener volunteer. However, joining OMGA, and your local OMGA chapter is one way to support the efforts of your local Master Gardener program, and to stay better connected to the Master Gardener events and activities in your area. (adapted from An Introduction to Being A Master Gardener)
