Applications Open for Anoka County Master Gardener Program

University of Minnesota Extension Anoka County Bunker Hills Activities Center
550 Bunker Lake Blvd. NW, Andover, MN 55304
763-324-3495, Fax: 763-324-3325
www.extension.umn.edu; mnext-anoka@umn.edu
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
Julie Blomquist
August 2, 2019 TEL. 763-324-3496/FAX 763-324-3325
Julie.Blomquist@co.anoka.mn.us
UMN Extension Master Gardener Recruitment Season and Informational Event
The University of Minnesota (UMN) Extension Master Gardener Program in Anoka County (ACMG) is now accepting applications for the 2020 Master Gardener program. The ACMGs are offering a free informational event on Thursday, August 22 from 6:30 – 9:00 PM for persons interested in learning about and applying to the local Master Gardener program.
The ACMG program has over 100 volunteers who receive professional training in consumer horticulture and are charged with educating youth and adults through a variety of programs and services in exchange for their volunteer time. Their mission is to connect research-based horticulture resources from University of Minnesota while addressing priorities that are important for the health and well-being of our communities such as clean water, pollinator protection, and growing foods.
At the Recruitment and Information Event, participants will experience an educational seminar taught by an industry professional, plus hear from current ACMGs about activities in the program. A light supper will also be provided.
By attending this event participants will become better informed about the application process, but it does not guarantee acceptance into the program. The event is free but pre-registration is required online at www.anokamastergardeners.org/ or by calling 763-324-3498.
Anyone interested in the ACMG program should have an active interest in gardening, enjoys learning, and has a desire for sharing their knowledge of gardening through various ACMG program activities.
To become a Master Gardener, one needs to complete an application by October 1, be selected for an interview, and submit and pass a background screening. Upon completion of
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those things, registration will open for the Master Gardener Core Course which is $320
(includes $290 for course materials the student retains, and a $30 background screening fee).
The Core Course is held in January and February. It includes 48 hours of education.
The modules are comprised of online and/or classroom instruction. Topics are taught on trees
and shrubs, entomology, fruits, flowers, lawns, vegetables, and plant diseases.
During the first year in the program, the new “interns” are required to complete 50 hours
of volunteer service under the guidance of experienced ACMGs. Each year thereafter, Master
Gardeners must complete a minimum of 25 hours of fun and engaging volunteer service to
maintain their certification.
The ACMG Program will offer an *early bird application rebate of $50 for all new
volunteers accepted for the 2019 program (*application must be received/postmarked
by September 15 to qualify.
Specific information about the ACMG program and application materials are available at
www.anokamastergardeners.org.
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Submitted by: Lynne Hagen, University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener Program