Master Gardener Volunteer Program

Program Overview

The Extension Master Gardener program is a volunteer program in which K-State Research & Extension "trades" classroom horticulture training for volunteer service. Master Gardeners take part in rewarding volunteer experiences to share current, research-based horticulture information with local neighbors and community members. Extension Master Gardeners never stop learning, but continue to grow in their knowledge of garden related topics. Being an Extension Master Gardener volunteer is a fun, interesting, and gratifying experience.

Volunteer Requirements

• Applicants must be Sedgwick County residents, age 18 or over, with a high school diploma or equivalent and an interest in gardening.
• Each Master Gardener provides a minimum of 48 hours annually of volunteer work through projects and events we sponsor.
• Each Master Gardener participates in at least 18 hours annually of advanced training. Advanced training opportunities are provided by K-State Research & Extension.

Steps to Become a Master Gardener Volunteer

1. Attend the Informational Meeting
   • It is highly recommended that interested applicants attend our Informational Meeting scheduled for Thursday, July 18, 2024, from 2:00-4:00pm at the K-State Research and Extension offices, 7001 W. 21st St. N. This meeting provides a program overview including volunteer requirements and expectations, a look at the basic training schedule and curriculum, and an outline of the application process. You do not need to register to attend.
2. Complete and submit a Master Gardener Application
   • The deadline for submitting an application is Thursday, July 25, 2024.
3. Participate in the interview process
   • Interviews will be scheduled between July 29 and August 9, 2024.
   • Applicants will receive notice of whether or not they have been accepted into the Master Gardener training program prior to the end of August.
4. Complete Basic Training
   
   • For those accepted into the Master Gardener program, basic training starts the first Thursday in September. Classes are held from 9:00am to 4:00pm each Thursday through mid-December. Some or all of the training may be virtual. Attendance is required.
   • There is a one-time fee of $120 to cover the cost of all training materials. Need-based partial scholarships are available.

Once your training is completed, you will graduate as part of the new class of Master Gardener Volunteers!

Questions? Contact the Master Gardener Volunteer coordinator, Debra Harries, at (316) 660-0138 or debraharries@ksu.edu.

Important Links

Kansas EMG Program

Other Counties with EMG Programs

Contact Information

Have Questions? Contact:

Sedgwick County
Horticulture
7001 W. 21st St. North
Wichita KS 67205-1759
(316) 660-0144

Debra Harries
MG Volunteer Coordinator
(316) 660-0138
debraharries@ksu.edu

Matt McKernan
Ornamental Horticulture Agent
(316) 660-0140
mckernan@ksu.edu

Abbey Draut
Food Crops Horticulture Agent
(316) 660-0142
abbeyd@ksu.edu