Group of people in a greenhouse full of propagated plants.

About us

Cultivating plants, people & communities since 1973
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The WSU Extension Pierce County Master Gardener Program

Three people holding a mini shovel and ribbon at the State Fair.

It all began at Washington State University – and it all began in Pierce County. As the first Master Gardener Program in the state, nation, and world, Pierce County Master Gardeners continue their commitment to solving global problems by teaching research-based horticulture and environmental stewardship practices to build healthy and resilient communities. Our volunteers reach thousands of Pierce County community members through our various educational outreach programs. Whether at an Answer Clinic in downtown Gig Harbor, a youth garden workshop in Puyallup, or anywhere in between – we look forward to connecting with you and being your go-to resource for research-based, innovative solutions for your ever-changing horticulture and environmental stewardship needs.

  • Pierce Conservation District – Supporting just food systems, improving water quality, promoting sustainable agriculture, and recovery wildlife habitat.
  • Harvest Pierce County – Everyone deserves access to fresh, healthy, and affordable produce
  • Emergency Food Network – Providing Pierce County with a consistent, diverse and nutritious food supply so that no person goes hungry.
  • Pierce County Farmers Markets – Freshest, healthiest, and tastiest foods that local farms have to offer while helping the environment and supporting our local community!
  • Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department – Dirt Alert and Natural Lawn Care
  • Washington State Native Plant Society – The South Sound Chapter serves Pierce, Thurston and adjacent counties with Hikes and special programs.
  • PenMet Parks – 98.0-acre site with recreation for children Heritage & Master Gardener Demonstration gardens and 4 miles of trails on the property.

WSU Extension is for Everyone!

It is the policy of WSU Extension that no person shall be discriminated against in employment or any program or activity on the basis of race; sex/gender; sexual orientation; gender identity/expression; religion; age; color; creed; national or ethnic origin; physical; mental or sensory disability, including disability requiring the use of a trained service animal; marital status; genetic information and/or status as an honorably discharged veteran or member of the military.

WSU Extension will take specific action to reach out in positive ways to persons who are underrepresented in Extension programs and activities, and to increase diversity in employment and involvement.

CAHNRS commits to cultivating diverse, equitable, inclusive, and safe environments that foster transformative learning experiences, authentic community engagement, and respectful knowledge exchange.


The following links will take you to the state WSU Extension Master Gardener website. Simply hit the back button to return to this page.

Our Vision, Mission and Values

Master Gardeners inspecting greenhouse plants

Our Vision

Highly recognized, diverse, and fully supported, WSU Master Gardener volunteers are the go-to resource for communities seeking research-based, innovative solutions for their ever-changing horticulture and environmental stewardship needs.
Feeding a compost bin

Our Mission

Engaging university-trained volunteers to empower and sustain diverse communities with relevant, unbiased, research-based horticulture and environmental stewardship education.
Extension Master Gardener taking inventory

Our Values

We value personal and professional research and discovery because it encourages us to stay current about horticulture and environmental stewardship to meet the unique educational needs of our communities.

We foster and benefit from an atmosphere of diversity and inclusivity because our differences inspire creative thinking and innovative solutions.

We act with integrity because trust, truthfulness and respect create a healthy and positive culture.

We are committed to stewardship and sustainability, serving as ethical and responsible agents of our natural resources, human resources, and University resources.

We collaborate because together we empower healthy and resilient communities.

We are a dynamic and responsive program where knowledge inspires change.

Our Priorities

Climate change.

Soil Health

We encourage building healthy soils to prevent depletion and ensure the long-term viability of local food security & natural resources.
Climate change.

Pollinators

We teach ways to help native bees and other pollinators thrive in home and community landscapes.
Climate change.

Local Food

We teach sustainable techniques for growing local food to improve individual & community health and wellness.
Climate change.

Plant Biodiversity

We teach stewardship of diverse ecosystems through invasive species management, native species conservation and restoration in landscapes.
Climate change.

Nearby Nature

We seek to increase access to plants, green spaces, and public landscapes to benefit the health & well-being of all members of our communities.
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