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Virginia Master Gardeners

   

In 2007, the Master Gardener program involved more than 4,000 volunteers who contributed 240,000 hours valued at $4.5 million.

Master Gardeners focus on teaching:

• Sustainable landscape management that protects the environment and includes protecting water quality, managing yard waste, and controlling erosion
• Using horticulture as a tool to increase responsibility and leadership skills in youth
• The value of the landscape and ensuring proper design, installation, and maintenance of sustainable landscapes for economic benefit
• The benefits of home food production and developing knowledge in growing food, managing community gardens, and contributing to food banks
• The importance of the interior and exterior landscape to human health, well-being, and quality of life

Water Stewards, one of three advanced-level Master Gardener programs, involves more than 50 volunteers working out of 10 units across the commonwealth. Advanced-level Master Gardeners take 30 hours of training and give back 30 hours of service in addition to their original commitment.

For more information on the Virginia Master Gardener program, contact your local Extension office or www.hort.vt.edu/mastergardener/.