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Washington State University

Become a Master Gardener

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Join us!

  • Are you a gardener in Whatcom County?
  • Do you enjoy learning and sharing your knowledge with others?
  • Have you just moved to the area and want to get involved in the community and learn about gardening in our unique ecosystem?

The WSU Extension Whatcom County Master Gardener Volunteer program may be just what you are looking for!

WGS logo - Washington Green School

Master Gardener Flower Logo


Master Gardener Program

Program Contact:

Amber Noskoff, Program Coordinator
(360) 778-5811
anoskoff@wsu.edu


Registration for the 2025-26 Master Gardener training
is now closed.

Training is full, our next training cycle will be in the fall of 2026.

If you are interested the new statewide online Washington Green School training – registration is open until Sept 30, 2025.


Two distinctive tracks:

Track #1: (Non-Volunteer track)
– You attend the Washington Green School. ($550)

Track #2: (Volunteer track) Registration for Master Gardener training is now closed.
– Attend the Washington Green School, additional in-person training, complete community service hours. ($275)


 

Track #1:

Washington Green School

For individuals looking to enhance their gardening skills through research-based horticultural and environmental stewardship, the Washington Gardener course.

  • Online course with virtual instruction.
  • “Washington Gardener” Certificate upon successful completion.
  • Supplement your resume and promote your business.

The 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. The training 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.

 

Washington Green School Fee: $550

 

Delivery Online only
(Oct 5, 2025 – Feb 21, 2026)
Registration Period August 15 – September 30, 2025
Cost Washington Green School Fee: $550

Registration and more information

Track #2:

Registration for Master Gardener training is now closed.

Master Gardener Program

For those who wish to take it further by becoming a WSU Extension Master Gardener Program volunteer.

  • Online course with supplemental in-person fieldtrips.
  • “Master Gardener Volunteer” Certificate upon successful completion of key requirements.
  • Training prepares you to provide researched-based gardening education to your community.

The WSU Master Gardener Program is a nationally-recognized program that trains volunteers to serve their communities through horticultural education and outreach. Master Gardener volunteers work in partnership with the WSU Extension to teach research-based gardening and environmental stewardship practices to county residents, while at the same time learning, working, and having fun with other like-minded volunteers.

 

WSU Master Gardener Program Fee: $275

 

Delivery Online
(Oct 5, 2025 – Feb 21, 2026)
and additional in-person training
Application Period July 1 – August 30, 2025
Cost WSU Master Gardener Program Fee: $275
Workload
(equivalent to 4 semester hour credits)
  • Completion of Green School (120 hours).
  • About 20 hours of in-person, in-county labs, activities, and field trips.
  • About 40 hours volunteering as an Extension Master Gardener intern.
  • Be prepared to spend 6-8 hours per week studying for Green School and labs.

Program’s expectations and volunteer commitment.

Registration for Master Gardener training is now closed.