Extension Master Gardener℠ Program

Extension Master Gardener℠ Volunteer Program

Since 1979, NC State Extension Master Gardener℠ (EMG) volunteers have been leaders in this internationally acclaimed program, guiding homeowners in making environmentally sound decisions in their landscapes. Trained by North Carolina State University faculty and staff, Extension Master Gardener℠ volunteers provide research-based information about gardening and environmental stewardship to individuals and communities across the state. Extension Master Gardener℠ volunteers engage the community through education and outreach on a wide variety of subjects and through a broad spectrum of projects, all designed to maximize their impact. Read more about their impact at the state level here. .

EMG volunteers in Forsyth County provide unbiased, research-based education promoting horticultural best practices and environmental stewardship to the public. The program is dedicated to developing excellence in volunteers through continuing education and community engagement.

How do I become an NC State Extension Master Gardener℠ volunteer in Forsyth County?

In Forsyth County, Master Gardener℠ volunteer training is typically held once each year. In addition to completing the 40-hour training course, EMG students are also required to volunteer 40 hours of their time with Extension in order to become certified Extension Master Gardener℠ volunteers. Following successful certification, EMG volunteers are expected to continue accumulating a certain number of volunteer and continuing education hours each year to remain certified (the exact numbers are subject to change if the need arises).

View the Extension Master Gardener℠ volunteer Brochure

The NC State Extension Master Gardener℠ program is open to all members of the community who are willing and able to complete volunteer work with Extension in Forsyth County. Both beginning and experienced gardeners are welcome. The EMG program in Forsyth County is overseen by a Horticulture Agent and the Volunteer Coordinator.

View the Extension Master Gardener℠ Volunteer brochure

If you are interested in learning more about the NC State Extension Master Gardener℠ program or would like to be added to the interest list for the next class, please contact N.C. Cooperative Extension, Forsyth County Center at 336-703-2850 or by email. If emailing, please provide your name, and the best email address and phone number to contact you by.

If you are interested in attending an upcoming educational class on gardening, landscaping, or other horticultural topics, please visit our calendar of events

Interested in volunteering with N.C. Cooperative Extension, Forsyth County Center, but being an Extension Master Gardener℠ volunteer isn’t quite what you are looking for? Check out our other volunteer opportunities here!