To become a certified Extension Master Gardener volunteer, individuals receive horticulture and plant science training from their local Cooperative Extension Center through a 13-week course given by a variety of local speakers and Extension personnel. New volunteers are encouraged to participate in a wide range of other activities and events throughout the year shadowing veteran volunteers. Some of these events include: hosting a community Flower and Garden Show each spring, an annual Fall Plant Sale, maintaining a local landscape demonstration garden, propagating and managing a greenhouse full of different plant varieties, presenting educational programs, and partnering with local 4-H horticulture clubs and elementary schools.

The Currituck County Extension Master Gardener volunteers are currently accepting applications for interested individuals. Course classes begin on September 17, 2019, and will meet at the Currituck County Extension Office every Tuesday and Thursday from 6 pm. to 8 pm. ending December 12, 2019. The fee for the class is $125 which includes the course book, a name tag, a soil sample test, and other course supplies.

Once registered, a basic information application must be filled out before the first day of class, either online at go.ncsu.edu/2019mgapplication, or at the Currituck County Extension Office. Those with a strong interest in both gardening and their community are encouraged to apply. Applicants should be comfortable working with a diverse group of people and willing to share their knowledge with both new and experienced gardeners. If you have questions or would like more information concerning the Currituck Extension Master Gardener volunteers, please contact Chris Blaha at 252-232-2262, by email at ctblaha@ncsu.edu, or by visiting the Currituck County Extension Office.