Extension Master Gardener Expectations Agreement
I wish to become a Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) Master Gardener volunteer and would like to be accepted for the Albemarle/Charlottesville training course taking place in January 2027. I understand and accept the following expectations, should I be accepted into the program:
Expectations:
- There is a $200.00 fee for the class which covers the Virginia Master Gardener Handbook, background check, & other expenses associated with the class. Limited need-based scholarships are available; please contact Nick Saylor at the VCE office to inquire (nickjs23@vt.edu, 434 872-4581).
- Our 2027 Master Gardener training classes will be in-person and with sessions beginning in January and ending in April. The classes will be hosted at Trinity Episcopal Church on Preston Ave from 9am - 4pm on Wednesdays.
- Participants are expected to attend all classes, and any classes missed must be made up by attending a comparable class in another county or via an alternative method that may be approved by the Master Gardener Coordinator.
- Upon completion of the training course, participants are expected to complete 50 hours of volunteer service work no later than Dec. 31 of the following year (2028). The 50 hours of service include but are not limited to:
- a minimum of 4 shifts a a Horticulture Help Desk - whether at the VCE Main office, at a Farmers' Market, or an outreach table event.
- a minimum of 1 Conservation Landscape site visit.
- volunteer hours in VCE approved Piedmont Master Gardener projects.
As a fully certified Extension Master Gardener, I will:
- Pledge to volunteer a minimum of 20 hours of my time with the Piedmont Master Gardeners toward educating the public, and an additional 8 hours of my time pursuing continuing education for myself as an Extension Master Gardener volunteer per year beginning after the internship is completed. I also agree to abide by the job duties and policies of the Extension Master Gardener program, Virginia Cooperative Extension, Virginia State University and Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. I understand that if I fail to meet the minimum requirements, I will not be eligible for renewal the following year.
- Record and submit my volunteer hours regularly in the Better Impact database at least 3 times a year: by April 1, October 1, and December 1.
- Attend all VCE required trainings.
- Share only unbiased, science- and research-based information with the public.
- Refer questions that I am not qualified to answer to VCE staff or Agents.
- Record the demographics of the people I serve through the Extension Master Gardener programs, to help monitor how well the program is serving our community.
By completing the application I understand and agree to all the expectations above.
