Scott County residents can become an Extension Master Gardener by completing the core training course this fall. Gardeners will learn best practices for choosing plants, designing gardens and managing pests. Classes start in September 2016 and continue through the fall. Classes will be held at the Scott County Extension Office, 875 Tanglefoot Lane, Bettendorf. There is a Saturday trip to Iowa State University in Ames for numerous topics taught in the labs.
Those interested in the course can apply at http://mastergardenerhours.hort.iastate.edu/application-form.php. Fee for the course is $195 and financial assistance is available. Questions can be directed to the Scott County Extension office at 563-359-7577.
“Starting this fall, people can begin their journey to become a master gardener volunteer,” said Susan DeBlieck, program assistant in the Master Gardener program at ISU Extension and Outreach. “The training course includes lectures on gardening subjects, from growing vegetables and fruits to designing gardens with native plants.”
After completing the course, master gardener trainees start their work as volunteers within the community. Upon completion of 40 hours of volunteer service, the master gardener title becomes official and they join thousands of other Iowa volunteers. Master Gardeners in Scott County work to answer questions from homeowners, participate in gardening projects throughout the community and provide speakers for various groups. In 2015, over 700 volunteer hours were logged by Scott County Extension Master Gardeners. Please note that if you complete your training and 40 hours of service by December 31, 2017, you will receive a refund of $50.00.
(submitted by Angela M. Orr)
