Become a WSU Extension Master Gardener Volunteer!
Are you interested in expanding your gardening knowledge, connecting with others, and giving back to your community? The WSU Extension Master Gardener Program might be the perfect fit. You’ll gain research-based training to help solve real-life garden and landscape challenges—for yourself and those around you.
Thinking about joining the WSU Extension Cowlitz County Master Gardener Program?
Start by completing the application and agreeing to the program’s expectations and volunteer commitment.
🌿 WSU Extension Master Gardener Training – Cowlitz County
Ready to grow your knowledge and serve your community?
All WSU Extension Master Gardeners receive high-quality horticulture training from university experts to prepare them for community education and outreach. Training includes:
1. Green School (Oct 5, 2025 – Feb 21, 2026)
A flexible, 20-week online course featuring self-paced lessons, live virtual sessions with WSU experts, and PNW-specific content on soil, climate, pests, and plants. Includes reading, quizzes, activities, and a final exam.
2. Local Hands-on Learning & Field Trips
Hands-on, in-person sessions held at various Cowlitz County sites. Dates and details coming soon!
3. Internship (70 volunteer hours)
After training, interns volunteer alongside certified Master Gardeners in activities like answering garden questions, maintaining demo gardens, presenting workshops, and supporting youth education.
💲 Tuition: $275
A limited number of partial scholarships are available
More info: https://greenschool.extension.wsu.edu/home/wgs-fee-schedule/
📝 Application Process
- Apply: July 1–30, 2025 APPLICATION
- Notification: By end of August
- Background screening: September
🔁 Ongoing Commitment
To stay certified, volunteers complete:
- 25 service hours + 10 continuing ed hours annually
- Annual renewal each fall (no fee required)
Tracking hours is easy with our user-friendly online system.
WSU Extension Master Gardeners make a big impact across Washington State. Volunteers track their hours, outreach, and projects using an easy online system. These efforts are reported each year at both the local and state level to highlight and celebrate the valuable work being done.
📄 Learn more in the 2024 WSU Extension Master Gardener Program Annual Report.
