Dear Master Gardener Volunteers,
No eNews this week since there is not a lot of news to share!
The new Guide to Volunteering is out – please take a look HERE.
Then check your email for directions and a DocuSign to re-enroll. Let me know what remaining questions you may have and thanks for continuing to volunteer!
Things look a bit different but we’re still supporting our communities with garden education, donating produce to local food pantries, growing amazing gardens and more. I hope you’ll consider joining us. Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about re-enrolling in Master Gardener Programs of Linn and Benton Counties.
Eilzabeth Records, Program Coordinator (interim)
Q: I haven’t done much with Master Gardeners lately. I might want to do a few activities next year but I am not sure. Should I re-enroll?
A: If you might want to receive the volunteer newsletters or volunteer at even one or two activities, please complete program agreements to re-enroll.
Q: Does signing up obligate me to volunteer a certain amount of time?
A: No.
Q: Do I need to be certified to do projects like dig in the demo garden, grow plants or raise mason bees for sale, or other hand-on tasks?
A: No, to do strictly hands-on activities, you just need to re-enroll.
Q: Do I need to be certified to do projects like answering gardening questions, giving presentations, teaching classes or writing educational articles?
A: Yes, Master Gardener Volunteers need to be certified to volunteer as educators, unless they are trainees working on their first certification. The goal is for volunteers to keep on learning and providing the most updated information when teaching on behalf of Extension. If you were certified in 2019, there are no official service targets to remain certified at this time, but please log your service and continuing education hours so we can show stakeholders how much volunteers are still doing. Also, take advantage of the great continuing education options.
Q: I prefer in-person activities. What opportunities are available?
A: In-person events can be found in the Volunteer opportunities tabs at: https://blogs.oregonstate.edu/activebentonlinnmg/
Q: I prefer distance activities, what opportunities are available?
A: Online or distance events can be found in the Volunteer opportunities tabs at: https://blogs.oregonstate.edu/activebentonlinnmg/
Q: I want to get involved with teaching 2022 trainees – how can I help?
A: Several MGV committees across counties will be helping with in-person, outdoor garden labs taught at demo gardens in spring of 2021. Other online and in person opportunities to collaborate with incoming volunteers will be available. Talk to committee chairs or your program coordinator to get involved.
Have more questions? Please contact interim coordinator Elizabeth Records:
541-730-3471 or elizabeth.records@oregonstate.edu