Wednesday Nov 18, 2020
4:00 PM - 8:00 PM EST
Wednesdays August 19 - November 18, 2020
Online - Last Class will be In Person tbd Benzie County
REGISTRATION DEADLINE - August 13th, LIMIT of 48 Participants
$325 which includes 1000-page Manual.
Scholarships Available!!
Nate Walton
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About the MSU Extension Master Gardener Program Training Course and Volunteer Service
Access to World Class Gardening Knowledge. The MSU Extension Master Gardener (EMG) program connects gardeners across the state to MSU faculty and resources. Participants have access to information generated at one of the nation's top plant science teaching and research universities and the chance to use this knowledge to improve their communities and enrich lives.
Extension Master Gardener volunteers start by completing a 14-session training course grounded in university research. This training consists of approximately 45 hours of training with classes on plant science, soil science, integrated pest management, diagnostics, annuals and perennials, woody ornamentals, lawns, vegetables, small fruits, tree fruits, household and nuisance pests, indoor plants and gardening practices to protect water resources.
Training Course Format: To enhance volunteer engagement, the typical and preferred format is face-to-face. Based upon COVID-19 restrictions, this fall course will be offered online. The only exception will be a required face-to-face volunteer orientation session (typically the last class of the training) which may be postponed until it is safe to meet in person.
Technology Requirements: Below are recommendations for the optimal interactive online training:
Attendance Commitment: Participants must commit to attending all the training classes live. If schedule conflicts occur, the participant may only miss two classes in total. However, these must be made up. Classes may be made up by attending a lecture on the same topic offered through another EMG training course location. Upon coordinator approval, viewing approved recorded sessions, if available, is another make up option but is less engaging for course participants.
Training Commitment: Participants must commit to completing all open-book testing documents (weekly quizzes and final) with a minimum score of 80% on each one.
An Opportunity to Serve. After completing the training, Extension Master Gardener trainees must complete and report 40 hours of pre-approved horticulture-related service within one year of the last class date to earn their MSU Extension Master Gardener certification. Through these volunteer activities, trainees educate others in Michigan communities on the science-based, environmentally sound gardening practices learned during their training. Examples of volunteer projects and service may include:After the initial certifying year, EMGs are required to annually complete and report 10 education and 20 volunteer hours as well as complete a 3-step re-certification process (which includes a $20 re-certification fee) to maintain certification.
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The application, references and personal criminal history background check must be completed prior to the start of the training. We strongly recommend that you complete these required components as soon as possible. You will be contacted by local MSU Extension staff to set up an interview as soon as it is safe to do so. This interview will cover your potential involvement in the Program along with your interests and talents.
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Scholarships:
Application and registration for Extension Master Gardener Program is open.
Application and registration closes at 11:59 p.m. on August 13, 2020.
There are 48 openings available.
Printed courtesy of www.benzie.org/ – Contact the Benzie County Chamber of Commerce for more information.
826 Michigan Ave., Benzonia , MI 49616 – (231) 882-5801 – accounting@benziechamber.org