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If you have an interest in plants and gardening and would enjoy sharing your interest with others, apply to become a University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener volunteer.

Applications are open for the Carlton County Extension Master Gardener program now until Oct. 31.

Individuals selected for the program begin an internship that starts with the Master Gardener core course training in January 2023. The course is taught online through the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. Instructors are University of Minnesota Extension educators and faculty.

Following the course, interns will complete volunteer service in the first year, working with local Master Gardener volunteers on a variety of projects that educate the public about gardening and horticulture. You might answer plant questions by phone or at an information booth, write a newspaper column, or make a presentation to a community group. The primary projects in Carlton County include plant sales, garden tours, community gardens, and question-and-answer booths at local events.

Certification as a University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener follows the completion of the internship. To remain certified, Master Gardeners must contribute at least 25 hours of volunteer service annually. The only prerequisite is a love of gardening.