Dave Strong

Tony Hepton Leading a Workshop

David Strong

The Red Barn where some classes are held

WHO ARE WE?

Master Gardeners are trained by University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) advisors and experts in different aspects of plant science. In exchange for instruction, persons who become MGs, volunteer through the local UCCE office by extending science-based gardening information in Ventura County. MGs conduct demonstrations, diagnose plant/pest problems, and provide horticultural assistance while volunteering on the Helpline. They answer gardening related questions on the phone, by email mgventura@ucdavis.edu and public contact on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 1-4pm in the UCCE office (805-645-1455). Most information used by Master Gardeners is developed through research by UC faculty, specialists, and farm advisors.

OUR HISTORY

UCCE has been helping people solve their agricultural problems since 1913. Extension agents/farm advisors supervised "Victory gardens" during World War I and II and have helped home and community gardeners ever since. Eventually, a voluntary educational program was initiated to teach gardening to people who would then extend the information to others in the community.The first MG program was started in 1972 in Washington State. Since then, MG programs have spread to over 45 states and four Canadian provinces, and boasts of more than 125,000 volunteers.In California, Sacramento and Riverside Counties pilot programs began in 1980. Many of those original graduates are still active today in the program. As of January 2005, California had 31 active county programs providing more than 330,000 one-on-one contacts each year. MGs have become a significant resource of gardening information and are official "formal volunteers" of the UCCE.

WHO BECOMES A MASTER GARDENER?

The MGs share a number of qualities. They are life-long learners, enthusiastic, passionate gardeners, and enjoy helping others. MGs are able to communicate with diverse groups of people.

TRAINING IN VENTURA COUNTY

Classes are taught by farm advisors and experts in the field of horticulture. The program offers a 20-week training of practical courses in plant science and horticulture. According to Dr. Jim Downer, the Ventura County Master Gardening program has one of the most comprehensive course offerings in the state. In addition, our training program includes twenty hours of hands-on gardening education led by Certified MGs. For your information, the MG website has been updated and includes pertinent facts about the 2009 MG program. Individuals interested in having their name placed on waiting list may contact me by email or phone.

Leah Haynes, Volunteer Coordinator University of California Hansen Agricultural Center, 14292 West Telegraph RoadSanta Paula, CA. 93060 (805) 525-9293 X204 or ljhaynes@ucdavis.edu

Watch here for our upcoming posts on our gardening workshops that will be held for the public. The first of the series will be in May or visit our website at www.vcmastergardeners.org