{"id":6864,"date":"2024-08-05T12:33:09","date_gmt":"2024-08-05T19:33:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/?page_id=6864"},"modified":"2025-09-08T10:24:56","modified_gmt":"2025-09-08T17:24:56","slug":"join-us","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/mg-home\/join-us\/","title":{"rendered":"Join us"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wsu-hero wsu-width--full wsu-pattern--wsu-light-radial-left  wsu-hero--style-boxed wsu-hero--size-xsmall \">\n\t<div class=\"wsu-hero__background\">\n\t\t<div class=\"wsu-image-frame wsu-image-frame--fill\">\n\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2024\/10\/Extra-Demo-Garden2.jpg\"\n\t\tsrcset=\"https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2024\/10\/Extra-Demo-Garden2.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2024\/10\/Extra-Demo-Garden2.jpg 396w, https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2024\/10\/Extra-Demo-Garden2.jpg 792w, https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2024\/10\/Extra-Demo-Garden2.jpg 768w, https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2024\/10\/Extra-Demo-Garden2.jpg 1536w\"\n\t\tsizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\"\n\t\talt=\"Orange and red flowers growing in the Demonstration Garden.\"\n\t\tstyle=\"object-position: 50% 74%\"\n\t\t\/>\n<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"wsu-hero__overlay\">\n\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"wsu-hero__content-wrapper\">\n\t\t<div class=\"wsu-hero__inner-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"wsu-hero__title-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"wsu-hero__title\">Become a WSU Extension Master Gardener<\/div>\t\t\t\t<div class=\"wsu-hero__caption\">Cultivating plants, people, and communities since 1973<\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"wsu-hero__content\">\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"breadcrumbs \" typeof=\"BreadcrumbList\" vocab=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/\"><span property=\"itemListElement\" typeof=\"ListItem\"><a property=\"item\" typeof=\"WebPage\" title=\"Go to WSU Extension.\" href=\"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/\" class=\"main-home\" ><span property=\"name\">WSU Extension<\/span><\/a><meta property=\"position\" content=\"1\"><\/span> &gt; <span property=\"itemListElement\" typeof=\"ListItem\"><a property=\"item\" typeof=\"WebPage\" title=\"Go to Kittitas County.\" href=\"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\" class=\"home\" aria-current=\"page\"><span property=\"name\">Kittitas County<\/span><\/a><meta property=\"position\" content=\"2\"><\/span><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wsu-row wsu-spacing-after--small wsu-row--sidebar-left\" >\r\n    \n<div class=\"wsu-column\"  style=\"width:15%\">\r\n\t\n<div class=\"wp-block-image wsu-spacing-before--small\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-thumbnail is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/28\/MG-flower-150x150.png\" alt=\"&quot;&quot;\" class=\"wp-image-130\" width=\"113\" height=\"113\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\r\n\n\n<div class=\"wsu-column\"  style=\"\">\r\n\t\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left\"><strong>Join us!<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n<\/div>\r\n\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wsu-row  wsu-color-background--white wsu-row--sidebar-right\" >\r\n    \n<div class=\"wsu-column\"  style=\"\">\r\n\t\n<div class=\"wsu-decorator  wsu-decorator--style-block-crimson-wsu\" style=\"top:-3.0161%;left:30.6402%;height:88.0457%;width:22.6708%\"><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wsu-overlap wsu-overlap-spotlight  wsu-overlap-spotlight--style-right-middle\">\r\n    <div class=\"wsu-overlap__container\">\r\n        <div class=\"wsu-overlap__column wsu-overlap--overlap-medium\">\r\n            <div class=\"wsu-overlap__column-inner\">\r\n                <div class=\"wsu-overlap-spotlight__image   wsu-notch--medium\">\r\n                    <div class=\"wsu-image-frame \">\r\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2024\/10\/Extra-outreach-792x594.jpg\"\r\n                        srcset=\"https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2024\/10\/Extra-outreach-792x594.jpg 792w, https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2024\/10\/Extra-outreach-396x297.jpg 396w, https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2024\/10\/Extra-outreach-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2024\/10\/Extra-outreach-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2024\/10\/Extra-outreach.jpg 1920w\"\r\n                        sizes=\"(max-width: 792px) 100vw, 792px\"\r\n                        alt=\"Group of master gardeners.\"\r\n                        style=\"object-position: 22% 60%\"\r\n                        \/>\r\n                    <\/div>\r\n                <\/div>\r\n            <\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"wsu-overlap__column wsu-overlap--surface-column wsu-overlap--overlap-medium\">\r\n            <div class=\"wsu-overlap__column-inner\">\r\n                <div class=\"wsu-overlap-spotlight__caption  wsu-dropshadow--medium\">\r\n                    \n\n<p>Do you want to learn more about gardening, meet new people and make a difference in the community? The WSU Extension Master Gardener Program may be just right for you. You will learn science-based knowledge to tackle the yard and garden problems that matter to you and to, your friends, neighbors and community.<\/p>\n\n        <div id=\"cahnrs-back-to-top\" class=\"cahnrs-back-to-top\" hidden aria-hidden=\"true\">\n            <a id=\"cahnrs-back-to-top-btn\" class=\"cahnrs-back-to-top__btn\" href=\"#product-top\" aria-label=\"Back to top\">\n                <span class=\"cahnrs-back-to-top__icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\u2191<\/span>\n                <span class=\"cahnrs-back-to-top__label\">Back to top<\/span>\n            <\/a>\n        <\/div>\n\n                <\/div>\r\n            <\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\r\n\n\n<div class=\"wsu-column  wsu-border--color-midnight\"  style=\"\">\r\n\t\n<article class=\"wsu-card wsu-card--outline-shadow wsu-spacing-top--none wsu-spacing-bottom--none wsu-color-background--gray-5\">\r\n\t\t<div class=\"wsu-card__content\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"wsu-title wsu-font-size--xxmedium\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMore Information\t\t\t\t\t<\/h2>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"wsu-card__content-custom\">\r\n\t\t\t\n    <nav class=\"wsu-navigation-vertical wsu-vertical-menu\">\n        <ul id=\"wsu-site-menu\" class=\"wsu-menu-collapse wsu-menu-collapse--style-vertical\"><li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/mg-home\/\">Master Gardener Home<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/mg-home\/about\/\">About<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/mg-home\/educational-outreach\/\">Educational Outreach<\/a><button aria-label=\"{Open submenu Educational Outreach\" class=\"wsu-menu-collapse--action-toggle\"><\/button>\n<ul class=\"sub-menu\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/mg-home\/educational-outreach\/speakers-bureau\/\">Speakers Bureau<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/mg-home\/educational-outreach\/youth-gardening\/\">Youth Gardening<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/mg-home\/educational-outreach\/demonstration-gardens\/\">Demonstration Garden<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/mg-home\/educational-outreach\/plant-sales\/\">Plant Sales<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/mg-home\/educational-outreach\/ask-a-master-gardener\/\">Ask a Master Gardener<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/mg-home\/educational-outreach\/ask-a-master-gardener\/answer-clinics\/\">Plant Diagnostic Clinic<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/mglearns.mastergardenerfoundation.org\/\">WSU Extension Master Gardener Advanced Education Conference<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/mg-home\/gardening-resources\/\">Gardening Resources<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/mg-home\/join-us\/\">Join us<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/mg-home\/contact-us\/\">Contact Us<\/a><button aria-label=\"{Open submenu Contact Us\" class=\"wsu-menu-collapse--action-toggle\"><\/button>\n<ul class=\"sub-menu\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/mg-home\/contact-us\/county-mg-coordinator\/\">Kittitas County Master Gardener Coordinator<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/mg-home\/contact-us\/contact-us-about-upcoming-training\/\">Contact us about upcoming training<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/mg-home\/contact-us\/speakers-bureau-contact-page\/\">Speakers Bureau Contact Page<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/mg-home\/contact-us\/ask-a-master-gardener-contact-page\/\">Ask a Master Gardener Contact Page<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>    <\/nav>\n\n\t\t<\/span>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\t<\/article>\n<\/div>\r\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Kittitas County Master Gardener Volunteer Training<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The WSU Extension Master Gardener Program is a volunteer program for people with a passion for plants, a drive to learn, and a commitment to serve. Candidates for the program may have a range in experience or knowledge about horticulture, but all have a desire to learn. By joining the program, you are committing to serving the community as a volunteer gardening\/horticulture educator. Interested in joining the WSU Extension Kittitas County Master Gardener Program? Complete the application during the application window July 1-September 1 and agree to the WSU Master Gardener Program\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/mastergardener.wsu.edu\/get-involved\/join-us\/agreement-review\/\">expectations<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Application Process<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>All WSU Extension Master Gardeners (EMG\u2019s) receive in-depth horticulture training provided by university faculty, staff, and specialists. Training is critical to ensure that all volunteers have access to the information necessary to support our mission. Training to become an Extension Master Gardener (EMG) volunteer include 3 main components:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Green School online course.<\/strong> The online course will take place over a <a href=\"https:\/\/greenschool.extension.wsu.edu\/home\/wgs-schedule\/\">20-week period<\/a> between October 5, 2025, and February 21, 2026. Green School offers flexible, remote and hybrid training options. This includes self-paced online classes and online review sessions with subject matter experts from WSU. Courses are specific to the PNW\u2019s climate, soil, environment, insects, wildlife, and plants. Training is a big commitment and includes reading (online, no text required), homework, quizzes, in-class activities, lectures, and a final exam.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>In-person labs\/field trips.<\/strong> Trainees attend in-person local learning experiences (or labs) including field trips field trips. <em>Details about labs\/field trips coming soon.<\/em><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Internship\/volunteer service.<\/strong> Upon completing their training, trainees transition into their internship. As interns, they volunteer alongside certified WSU Extension Master Gardeners, enhancing their knowledge and skills while gaining comfort in community education and program participation. Interns are expected to complete <strong>40 hours<\/strong> of volunteer service their first year. Volunteer service include answering garden questions at our answer clinic, helping to maintain one of our demonstration gardens, giving presentations, or helping with our children\u2019s education team \u2013 to name just a few of the many opportunities.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>The next application in Kittitas County will be for the training that begins in October 2025. The application process will include the following steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li>Interested applicants can apply between July 1st &#8211; September 1st, 2025.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Accepted applicants will be notified by on a rolling basis during that time.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>After applying for and being accepted into the Master Gardener volunteer program, you will be asked to complete a background screening.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ongoing Commitment <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>After completion of Green School and your internship commitment, you will become&nbsp;<em>certified.&nbsp;<\/em>To maintain certification, volunteers must give at least&nbsp;<strong>25&nbsp;hours<\/strong> of service and earn at least<strong> 10<\/strong>&nbsp;<strong>hours<\/strong> of continuing education each year. Volunteers who have met the minimum requirements to remain certified will be offered the opportunity to request continuing certification for the following year through our easy online reapplication each November.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There is no fee associated with annual certification.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>WSU Extension Master Gardeners are active across the state and their impacts are impressive. We have a user-friendly reporting system so that logging hours, reporting outreach, and signing up for projects is simple. We\u2019re required to report our efforts locally and to the state annually \u2013 we want to show off the good work our volunteers are doing! Check out our&nbsp;Annual Reports to read more.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2025\/05\/2023-Annual-Impact-Report-Final-10-24-24.pdf\">2023 WSU Extension Master Gardener Program Annual Report (PDF)<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WSU Extension Washington Green School<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wsu-row wsu-row--sidebar-right\" >\r\n    \n<div class=\"wsu-column\"  style=\"\">\r\n\t\n\n<p>Join a community of gardeners dedicated to protecting Washington\u2019s environment.&nbsp;WSU Extension Green School (Green School) provides the knowledge and skills to garden responsibly in our changing climate. Learn practical techniques, connect with experts, and discover how your actions contribute to a healthier future for all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Green School offers <strong>two distinct tracks<\/strong>: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li>One track for individuals looking to enhance their gardening skills through research-based horticultural and environmental stewardship, the&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/greenschool.extension.wsu.edu\/home\/wgs-course-options\/washington-gardener-certificate\/\">Washington Gardener course<\/a>.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Another track for those who wish to take it further by becoming a&nbsp;<strong>WSU Extension Master Gardener Program&nbsp;volunteer<\/strong> (read below).<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n<div class=\"wsu-cta \" >\n\t<a \t\t\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/greenschool.extension.wsu.edu\/course-options\/\"\t\n\t\tclass=\"wsu-button  wsu-button--style-action\">\n\t\t\t\n\t\tCompare course options\t\t\t<\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div>\r\n\n\n<div class=\"wsu-column\"  style=\"\">\r\n\t\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"792\" height=\"477\" src=\"https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2025\/05\/WGS_wordmark_Stacked-792x477.jpg\" alt=\"Washington Green School logo.\" class=\"wp-image-11323\" srcset=\"https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2025\/05\/WGS_wordmark_Stacked-792x477.jpg 792w, https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2025\/05\/WGS_wordmark_Stacked-396x239.jpg 396w, https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2025\/05\/WGS_wordmark_Stacked-768x463.jpg 768w, https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2025\/05\/WGS_wordmark_Stacked.jpg 891w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 792px) 100vw, 792px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\r\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Additional Details<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wsu-row wsu-row--sidebar-right\" >\r\n    \n<div class=\"wsu-column\"  style=\"\">\r\n\t\n<div class=\"wsu-accordion\">\r\n    <h3 id=\"unique-id-1__8131\" class=\"wsu-accordion__title\">\r\n        <button class=\"wsu-accordion__title-button wsu-accordion--toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"unique-id-1__content\">Training cost<\/button>\r\n    <\/h3>\r\n    <div id=\"unique-id-1__content\" class=\"wsu-accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"unique-id-1__8131\">\r\n        <div class=\"wsu-accordion__content-inner\">\r\n            \n\n<p>A: <a href=\"https:\/\/greenschool.extension.wsu.edu\/home\/wgs-fee-schedule\/\">WGS fee schedule | WA Green School | Washington State University<\/a><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wsu-accordion\">\r\n    <h3 id=\"unique-id-1__31842\" class=\"wsu-accordion__title\">\r\n        <button class=\"wsu-accordion__title-button wsu-accordion--toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"unique-id-1__content\">Training course materials<\/button>\r\n    <\/h3>\r\n    <div id=\"unique-id-1__content\" class=\"wsu-accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"unique-id-1__31842\">\r\n        <div class=\"wsu-accordion__content-inner\">\r\n            \n\n<p>A: There is one required textbook,&nbsp;<em>PNW Gardeners Handbook: Growing for the Future<\/em>&nbsp;which will be available to you through your course fees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are no perquisites for this non-credit course other than a desire to learn and if you choose the volunteer route, a demonstrated volunteer ethic. You will need a computer, email address and reliable, high-speed internet to successfully participate in our online training program.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wsu-accordion\">\r\n    <h3 id=\"unique-id-1__71548\" class=\"wsu-accordion__title\">\r\n        <button class=\"wsu-accordion__title-button wsu-accordion--toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"unique-id-1__content\">Expected workload<\/button>\r\n    <\/h3>\r\n    <div id=\"unique-id-1__content\" class=\"wsu-accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"unique-id-1__71548\">\r\n        <div class=\"wsu-accordion__content-inner\">\r\n            \n\n<p>A: Estimated 180 hours over 52 weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Completion of online Green School course (120 hours).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Approximately 20 hours of in-person, in-county labs, activities, and field trips.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>40 hours volunteering as an Extension Master Gardener intern.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Be prepared to spend 6-8 hours per week studying for Green School and labs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n        <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wsu-accordion\">\r\n    <h3 id=\"unique-id-1__91283\" class=\"wsu-accordion__title\">\r\n        <button class=\"wsu-accordion__title-button wsu-accordion--toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"unique-id-1__content\">Volunteer expectations<\/button>\r\n    <\/h3>\r\n    <div id=\"unique-id-1__content\" class=\"wsu-accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"unique-id-1__91283\">\r\n        <div class=\"wsu-accordion__content-inner\">\r\n            \n\n<p>A: <a href=\"https:\/\/greenschool.extension.wsu.edu\/home\/wgs-course-options\/become-an-extension-master-gardener\/agreement\/\">The agreements and policies<\/a>, clarify the scope and expectations of our Program. WSU Extension and local counties invest in volunteers and in return, volunteers invest in WSU Extension and in local communities. It is important to clearly define expectations so current and interested volunteers have the information they need to determine if being a WSU volunteer is a good fit. WSU Extension values the time and talents of volunteers and commits to doing our best to make the volunteer experience productive and rewarding.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wsu-accordion\">\r\n    <h3 id=\"unique-id-1__65336\" class=\"wsu-accordion__title\">\r\n        <button class=\"wsu-accordion__title-button wsu-accordion--toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"unique-id-1__content\">Community education<\/button>\r\n    <\/h3>\r\n    <div id=\"unique-id-1__content\" class=\"wsu-accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"unique-id-1__65336\">\r\n        <div class=\"wsu-accordion__content-inner\">\r\n            \n\n<p>A: What do Extension Master Gardener volunteers educate the community on? Our <a href=\"https:\/\/mastergardener.wsu.edu\/priorities\/\">Program Priorities<\/a> inform our efforts.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\r\n\n\n<div class=\"wsu-column  wsu-color-background--gray-5\"  style=\"\">\r\n\t\n\n<p class=\" wsu-font-size--medium\">The passion and dedication demonstrated by WSU Extension Master Gardeners underscores the positive impact that programs like these can have on individuals and communities. The reasons they\u2019ve provided for their involvement highlight the multifaceted benefits of participating in such a program:<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wsu-accordion  wsu-accordion--size-small\">\r\n    <h4 id=\"unique-id-1__14027\" class=\"wsu-accordion__title\">\r\n        <button class=\"wsu-accordion__title-button wsu-accordion--toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"unique-id-1__content\"><strong>A Fount of Knowledge:<\/strong><\/button>\r\n    <\/h4>\r\n    <div id=\"unique-id-1__content\" class=\"wsu-accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"unique-id-1__14027\">\r\n        <div class=\"wsu-accordion__content-inner\">\r\n            \n\n<p class=\" wsu-font-size--medium\">Being a WSU Extension Master Gardener offers a continuous learning experience. Participants have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of horticultural science and gardening practices, staying up-to-date on the latest research and techniques.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wsu-accordion  wsu-accordion--size-small\">\r\n    <h4 id=\"unique-id-1__78154\" class=\"wsu-accordion__title\">\r\n        <button class=\"wsu-accordion__title-button wsu-accordion--toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"unique-id-1__content\"><strong>Camaraderie and Learning from Each Other<\/strong><\/button>\r\n    <\/h4>\r\n    <div id=\"unique-id-1__content\" class=\"wsu-accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"unique-id-1__78154\">\r\n        <div class=\"wsu-accordion__content-inner\">\r\n            \n\n<p class=\" wsu-font-size--medium\">The sense of community and the opportunity to learn from fellow WSU Extension Master Gardeners contributes to a supportive and enriching environment. Sharing experiences and knowledge among members fosters continuous growth and improvement.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wsu-accordion  wsu-accordion--size-small\">\r\n    <h4 id=\"unique-id-1__59624\" class=\"wsu-accordion__title\">\r\n        <button class=\"wsu-accordion__title-button wsu-accordion--toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"unique-id-1__content\"><strong>Providing a Service to the Community<\/strong><\/button>\r\n    <\/h4>\r\n    <div id=\"unique-id-1__content\" class=\"wsu-accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"unique-id-1__59624\">\r\n        <div class=\"wsu-accordion__content-inner\">\r\n            \n\n<p class=\" wsu-font-size--medium\">The core aspect of the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program is community service. Participants take pride in using their expertise to benefit their local communities by offering guidance, workshops, and assistance to fellow community members.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wsu-accordion  wsu-accordion--size-small\">\r\n    <h4 id=\"unique-id-1__94947\" class=\"wsu-accordion__title\">\r\n        <button class=\"wsu-accordion__title-button wsu-accordion--toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"unique-id-1__content\"><strong>Satisfaction from Community Respect<\/strong><\/button>\r\n    <\/h4>\r\n    <div id=\"unique-id-1__content\" class=\"wsu-accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"unique-id-1__94947\">\r\n        <div class=\"wsu-accordion__content-inner\">\r\n            \n\n<p class=\" wsu-font-size--medium\">WSU Extension Master Gardeners often earn respect and recognition from their communities for their valuable contributions. This acknowledgment can be a source of pride and satisfaction, reinforcing the importance of the work they do.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wsu-accordion  wsu-accordion--size-small\">\r\n    <h4 id=\"unique-id-1__34237\" class=\"wsu-accordion__title\">\r\n        <button class=\"wsu-accordion__title-button wsu-accordion--toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"unique-id-1__content\"><strong>Sense of Purpose<\/strong><\/button>\r\n    <\/h4>\r\n    <div id=\"unique-id-1__content\" class=\"wsu-accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"unique-id-1__34237\">\r\n        <div class=\"wsu-accordion__content-inner\">\r\n            \n\n<p class=\" wsu-font-size--medium\">Involvement in the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program provides a sense of purpose. Participants find fulfillment in contributing to a greater cause, knowing that their efforts positively impact the environment and the well-being of the community.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\" wsu-font-size--medium\"><\/p>\n\n<\/div>\r\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading  wsu-heading--style-marked wsu-heading--mark-color-crimson\">Frequently asked questions:<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wsu-row  wsu-color-background--gray-5 wsu-row--single\" >\r\n    \n<div class=\"wsu-column\"  style=\"\">\r\n\t\n<div class=\"wsu-accordion\">\r\n    <h3 id=\"unique-id-1__37757\" class=\"wsu-accordion__title\">\r\n        <button class=\"wsu-accordion__title-button wsu-accordion--toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"unique-id-1__content\">Q: What is the fee to become a Master Gardener?<\/button>\r\n    <\/h3>\r\n    <div id=\"unique-id-1__content\" class=\"wsu-accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"unique-id-1__37757\">\r\n        <div class=\"wsu-accordion__content-inner\">\r\n            \n\n<p>A: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>$275 total.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Accepted forms of payment: Check (preferred) or cash.&nbsp; Make checks payable to Washington State University.&nbsp; MG program in description line.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The&nbsp;Pacific&nbsp;Northwest&nbsp;Gardener&#8217;s&nbsp;Handbook:&nbsp;Growing&nbsp;for&nbsp;the&nbsp;Future can be downloaded upon receipt of payment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>No one will be turned away due to lack of funds.&nbsp; Partial scholarships are available.&nbsp; Inquire with the Program Coordinator at <a href=\"mailto:patty.ratzlaff@wsu.edu\">patty.ratzlaff@wsu.edu<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n        <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wsu-accordion\">\r\n    <h3 id=\"unique-id-1__93037\" class=\"wsu-accordion__title\">\r\n        <button class=\"wsu-accordion__title-button wsu-accordion--toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"unique-id-1__content\">Q: What is the training schedule?<\/button>\r\n    <\/h3>\r\n    <div id=\"unique-id-1__content\" class=\"wsu-accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"unique-id-1__93037\">\r\n        <div class=\"wsu-accordion__content-inner\">\r\n            \n\n<p>A:  Application window from July 1 &#8211; September 1. Applications will become available on July 1 on this website.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>August 12, 12:00-1:30 p.m. Meet &amp; Greet with small group interviews<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>September 16, 12:00-2:00 p.m.  Orientation Luncheon<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>October 1-March 17 Online Classes&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wsu-accordion\">\r\n    <h3 id=\"unique-id-1__71849\" class=\"wsu-accordion__title\">\r\n        <button class=\"wsu-accordion__title-button wsu-accordion--toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"unique-id-1__content\">Q: What will I learn?<\/button>\r\n    <\/h3>\r\n    <div id=\"unique-id-1__content\" class=\"wsu-accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"unique-id-1__71849\">\r\n        <div class=\"wsu-accordion__content-inner\">\r\n            \n\n<p>A:  The integration of various topics offers a comprehensive education, encompassing both the science and art of gardening. Additionally, it equips participants with the necessary skills to effectively disseminate this knowledge within the community. This approach underscores the program\u2019s dedication to science-based education and sustainable practices. As a result, graduates of the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program possess a solid horticultural foundation and the confidence to engage in community education and outreach.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wsu-accordion\">\r\n    <h3 id=\"unique-id-1__88838\" class=\"wsu-accordion__title\">\r\n        <button class=\"wsu-accordion__title-button wsu-accordion--toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"unique-id-1__content\">Q: How many hours a week will I spend training?<\/button>\r\n    <\/h3>\r\n    <div id=\"unique-id-1__content\" class=\"wsu-accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"unique-id-1__88838\">\r\n        <div class=\"wsu-accordion__content-inner\">\r\n            \n\n<p>A:  Be prepared to spend 6-8 hours per week studying for Green School and labs.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wsu-accordion\">\r\n    <h3 id=\"unique-id-1__72922\" class=\"wsu-accordion__title\">\r\n        <button class=\"wsu-accordion__title-button wsu-accordion--toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"unique-id-1__content\">Q: What is the training format?<\/button>\r\n    <\/h3>\r\n    <div id=\"unique-id-1__content\" class=\"wsu-accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"unique-id-1__72922\">\r\n        <div class=\"wsu-accordion__content-inner\">\r\n            \n\n<p>A:  Online learning through the software program called Moodle. The in-county labs will be in-person training with local experts and local certified Master Gardeners.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wsu-accordion\">\r\n    <h3 id=\"unique-id-1__8346\" class=\"wsu-accordion__title\">\r\n        <button class=\"wsu-accordion__title-button wsu-accordion--toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"unique-id-1__content\">Q: What happens once I finish the course?<\/button>\r\n    <\/h3>\r\n    <div id=\"unique-id-1__content\" class=\"wsu-accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"unique-id-1__8346\">\r\n        <div class=\"wsu-accordion__content-inner\">\r\n            \n\n<p>A:  Upon completing their training, trainees transition into interns. As interns, they volunteer alongside certified WSU Extension Master Gardeners, enhancing their knowledge and skills while gaining comfort in community education and program participation. To earn WSU Extension Master Gardener certification, intern volunteers must contribute a minimum of 40 hours of volunteer time.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wsu-accordion\">\r\n    <h3 id=\"unique-id-1__77504\" class=\"wsu-accordion__title\">\r\n        <button class=\"wsu-accordion__title-button wsu-accordion--toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"unique-id-1__content\">Q: Once I become certified, what is my commitment?<\/button>\r\n    <\/h3>\r\n    <div id=\"unique-id-1__content\" class=\"wsu-accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"unique-id-1__77504\">\r\n        <div class=\"wsu-accordion__content-inner\">\r\n            \n\n<p>A: After achieving certification as a WSU Extension Master Gardener, you commit to volunteering for a minimum of 25 hours annually and completing at least 10 hours of ongoing education. At the end of each year, if you\u2019ve met these requirements, your continued interest in the program is confirmed by submitting a straightforward re-application form. There is no fee associated with annual re-application.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wsu-accordion\">\r\n    <h3 id=\"unique-id-1__72368\" class=\"wsu-accordion__title\">\r\n        <button class=\"wsu-accordion__title-button wsu-accordion--toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"unique-id-1__content\">Q: What are the program requirements?<\/button>\r\n    <\/h3>\r\n    <div id=\"unique-id-1__content\" class=\"wsu-accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"unique-id-1__72368\">\r\n        <div class=\"wsu-accordion__content-inner\">\r\n            \n\n<p>A: Applicants to the WSU Extension Kittitas Master Gardener Program must meet the following criteria:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li>Be at least 18 years of age.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Possess a strong volunteer ethic and an interest in gardening (prior gardening experience is desirable but not required).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Commit to participating in the WSU Extension Master Gardener Basic Training course, including completing the final exam with a minimum score of 80% and achieving an overall average score of at least 80% on all quizzes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Complete a final short presentation or research paper.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Engage in the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program training.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Be available to perform volunteer work as needed by the WSU Extension&nbsp;Kittitas County&nbsp;Master Gardener Program.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Agree to use technology such as email, learning platforms, and the volunteer database.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pledge to contribute a minimum of 40 volunteer hours during the training year, which includes Clinic orientation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Commit to donating a minimum of 25 volunteer hours each year after completing the training.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Earn a minimum of&nbsp;10 hours of Continuing Education annually after training.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Document volunteer hours each month using our electronic database, GivePulse.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sign a Pest Management Recommendation Agreement and a Code of Conduct Agreement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Complete Child Protection Training.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Agree to follow Kittitas County Master Gardener guidelines as outlined in the County Handbook.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Automatic recertification each year is not guaranteed; every volunteer must reapply to the program annually. There is no fee associated with re-applying<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\r\n\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wsu-overlap wsu-overlap-spotlight  wsu-overlap-spotlight--style-right-middle\">\r\n    <div class=\"wsu-overlap__container\">\r\n        <div class=\"wsu-overlap__column\">\r\n            <div class=\"wsu-overlap__column-inner\">\r\n                <div class=\"wsu-overlap-spotlight__image  \">\r\n                    <div class=\"wsu-image-frame \">\r\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2025\/01\/Extra-Join-Us-792x365.jpg\"\r\n                        srcset=\"https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2025\/01\/Extra-Join-Us-792x365.jpg 792w, https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2025\/01\/Extra-Join-Us-396x182.jpg 396w, https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2025\/01\/Extra-Join-Us-768x354.jpg 768w, https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2025\/01\/Extra-Join-Us-1536x708.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2025\/01\/Extra-Join-Us.jpg 1880w\"\r\n                        sizes=\"(max-width: 792px) 100vw, 792px\"\r\n                        alt=\"A group of Master Gardener trainees sit at round tables in an open teaching space.  They have a variety of items on the tables, including name tents, their lunches, water bottles, and other personal items.\"\r\n                        style=\"object-position: 50% 50%\"\r\n                        \/>\r\n                    <\/div>\r\n                <\/div>\r\n            <\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"wsu-overlap__column wsu-overlap--surface-column\">\r\n            <div class=\"wsu-overlap__column-inner\">\r\n                <div class=\"wsu-overlap-spotlight__caption \">\r\n                    \n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Important Dates<\/h2>\n\n\n<div\n\tclass=\"js-wsu-events-list wsu-events-list \"\n\tdata-component-id=\"0b7b4eac6e644cb8b0b24e142e10f36f\"\n\t\t\t\tdata-type=\"feed\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-search=\"\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-data-source=\"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-count=\"3\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-offset=\"0\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-no-results-message=\"\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-display-fields=\"location,description\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-post-ids=\"\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-exclude=\"\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-types=\"\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-categories=\"12\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-tags=\"\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-organizations=\"\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-locations=\"\"\n\t\t><\/div>\n\n                <\/div>\r\n            <\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n\n<article class=\"wsu-card  wsu-card--style-horizontal-50\">\r\n\t\t<div class=\"wsu-image-frame wsu-image--ratio-6-4\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2024\/10\/Image-6b-Join-us.jpg\"\r\n\t\t\t\tsrcset=\"https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2024\/10\/Image-6b-Join-us.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2024\/10\/Image-6b-Join-us-396x297.jpg 396w, https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2024\/10\/Image-6b-Join-us-792x594.jpg 792w, https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2024\/10\/Image-6b-Join-us-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/wpcdn.web.wsu.edu\/extension\/uploads\/sites\/41\/2024\/10\/Image-6b-Join-us-1536x1152.jpg 1536w\"\r\n\t\t\t\tsizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\"\r\n\t\t\t\talt=\"Two master gardeners moving compost.\"\r\n\t\t\t\tstyle=\"object-position: 47% 52%\"\r\n\t\t\t\t\/>\r\n\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\t\t<div class=\"wsu-card__content\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"wsu-card__content-custom\">\r\n\t\t\t\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\">\n<p>If you\u2019re passionate about gardening and want to make a positive impact, participating in the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program can be a fulfilling and educational experience. It\u2019s an excellent opportunity to deepen your knowledge, connect with fellow gardening enthusiasts, and give back by sharing your expertise with others.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\t\t<\/span>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\t<\/article>\n        <div id=\"cahnrs-back-to-top\" class=\"cahnrs-back-to-top\" hidden aria-hidden=\"true\">\n            <a id=\"cahnrs-back-to-top-btn\" class=\"cahnrs-back-to-top__btn\" href=\"#product-top\" aria-label=\"Back to top\">\n                <span class=\"cahnrs-back-to-top__icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\u2191<\/span>\n                <span class=\"cahnrs-back-to-top__label\">Back to top<\/span>\n            <\/a>\n        <\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Kittitas County Master Gardener Volunteer Training The WSU Extension Master Gardener Program is a volunteer program for people with a passion for plants, a drive to learn, and a commitment [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":6853,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_tec_requires_first_save":true,"_EventAllDay":false,"_EventTimezone":"","_EventStartDate":"","_EventEndDate":"","_EventStartDateUTC":"","_EventEndDateUTC":"","_EventShowMap":false,"_EventShowMapLink":false,"_EventURL":"","_EventCost":"","_EventCostDescription":"","_EventCurrencySymbol":"","_EventCurrencyCode":"","_EventCurrencyPosition":"","_EventDateTimeSeparator":"","_EventTimeRangeSeparator":"","_EventOrganizerID":[],"_EventVenueID":0,"_OrganizerEmail":"","_OrganizerPhone":"","_OrganizerWebsite":"","_VenueAddress":"","_VenueCity":"","_VenueCountry":"","_VenueProvince":"","_VenueZip":"","_VenuePhone":"","_VenueURL":"","_VenueStateProvince":"","_VenueLat":"","_VenueLng":"","_tribe_blocks_recurrence_rules":"","_tribe_blocks_recurrence_description":"","_tribe_blocks_recurrence_exclusions":"","_expiration_date":""},"categories":[18],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6864"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6864"}],"version-history":[{"count":61,"href":"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6864\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":11510,"href":"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6864\/revisions\/11510"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6853"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6864"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6864"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/kittitas\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6864"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}