Become a Master Gardener

Master Gardener Certification
The Colorado State University Extension Office in Archuleta County is now accepting applications for the 2011 Colorado Master Gardener (CMG) program until December 10, 2010. Students will receive training in tree care, vegetables, soils, native plants, water wise gardening, pruning and much more. The training utilizes on-site and distant education experts to teach a series of ten classes. Classes start January 27 and will take place at the Fairgrounds every Thursday from 9AM-4PM. The cost is $190 if you intend to volunteer, $550 for a certificate without volunteer time. CMG volunteers are expected to complete 50 hours of volunteer time in the first year and 24 hours in subsequent years. If gaining knowledge and helping others through horticulture is of interest to you, the Colorado Master Gardener program is an ideal volunteer choice. Please contact the office at 264-5931 for more information.

Those accepted to the program receive 10 or so weeks of training in plant care and have the opportunity to work with other gardeners from Pagosa Springs to volunteer in the community. The Colorado Master Gardener program is ideal for gardeners who wish to increase their knowledge of horticulture and help others learn the joy of successful gardening.

In addition to receiving training from Colorado State University professors, specialists and horticulture agents, master gardeners learn on the job as they perform 50 hours of volunteer work during the growing season. Volunteers help the community by answering questions on garden care and provide education through teaching classes, writing news articles, working with special audiences and maintaining demonstration sites. Statewide, the value placed on the time donated by the 1,800 plus master gardeners is more than $1.3 million.

The Colorado Master Gardener program also can be a stepping stone toward a career in horticulture. Recognized by the green industry as a great vocational education course, the Colorado Master Gardener program is open to persons within and outside of the professional growing area. Many people considering a career in the green industry start with master gardener training as an all-around introduction to advanced plant care.