Our Mission
Master Gardener volunteers are committed to providing the highest quality, research-based horticultural information and educational activities that enhance our community’s environment and quality of life.
Who is a Master Gardener?
Master Gardeners are University of Minnesota-trained volunteers who educate the public about a variety of horticulture topics.
Master Gardener activities benefit schools, community gardens, youth programs, environmental education programs, farmers markets and much more.
What Do Master Gardener Volunteers Do?
- Planting and maintaining a demonstration garden at the Washington County Fairgrounds
- Answering gardening questions at farmers markets, county and state fairs, and on the University Yard and Garden hotline
- Hosting diagnostic clinics
- Teaching community education classes and hosting seminars
- Managing and maintaining community gardens, donating produce to local food shelves
- Speaking and writing articles
- Providing gardening advice and support to local non-profit organizations
What are the Priorities of the Master Gardener Volunteer Program?
What do Master Gardener Volunteers Provide Washington County?
The Washington County Master Gardener Volunteer program was established in 1977 and has served the public continuously since that time.
During 2022, 171 volunteers contributed more than 14,500 hours of service, averaging 85 hours per volunteer. This is equivalent to the services of 7 full-time employees assisting the citizens of Washington County.
167
Active volunteers in Washington County in 2023
15,140
Hours of volunteer service in 2023
21,154
Total contacts in 2023