Anchorage Master Gardener Program
Master Gardeners are volunteers for the University of Alaska Fairbanks Cooperative Extension Service. To become a Master Gardener, you must complete 40 hours of horticultural training and in return, volunteer 40 hours of time. The prerequisites for becoming a Master Gardener include a familiarity with Alaska gardening conditions and a commitment to return forty hours of volunteer service.
MG Volunteer Service
Master Gardeners provide gardening information to others. Once you have completed the course, the Anchorage Cooperative Extension Service agent will help provide direction for your volunteer work. Examples of volunteer activities include the following:
- Teaching garden classes
- Working with groups, such as 4-H, horticulture therapy groups and community gardeners
- Staffing garden clinics and displays
- Using your special talents, such as writing and photography to benefit others
- Answering phone inquiries on horticultural topics
- Providing expertise for Alaska Botanical Garden's educational activities
- Giving elementary school presentations
The 2013 Master Gardener classes are Mondays and Wednesdays from 12 - 3:00 p.m. starting Oct. 7 and ending Dec. 4. Call our office at 786-6300 for more information or click here to add your name to the interest list. Adding your name to the interest list does not register you for the Master Gardener class. Registration information will be available later this fall.
Alaska Master Gardener Association, Anchorage
Master Gardeners in Anchorage have formed their own association, the Alaska Master Gardener Association, Anchorage. AMGAA hosts monthly educational programs and summer field trips. The group sponsors their own monthly newsletter, website and volunteer projects. This year's statewide Alaska Master Gardener Conference will be held in Anchorage on Saturday, April 14, 2012. You do not have to be a Master Gardener to attend. Member dues are $20. For useful gardening tips and a calendar of events, check out their website www.alaskamastergardeners.org/.
Advanced Master Gardener Program, Anchorage
In Anchorage, Master Gardeners who have completed their 40 hours of volunteer time can become Advanced Master Gardeners. Advanced Master Gardeners receive core course training and must complete 20 hours of CEU (continuing education units) and 10 hours of volunteer service. The Anchorage Master Gardener Education Committee manages the Advanced MG program. A full description of the program can be found in the Advanced Master Gardener Program brochure.