Becoming a WSU Extension Master Gardener Volunteer

 
 

WSU Extension Master Gardener Training – Cowlitz County

Ready to grow your knowledge and serve your community?
All WSU Extension Master Gardeners receive high-quality horticulture training from university experts to prepare them for community education and outreach. Training includes:

1. Green School (Oct 5, 2025 – Feb 21, 2026)

A flexible, 20-week online course featuring self-paced lessons, live virtual sessions with WSU experts, and PNW-specific content on soil, climate, pests, and plants. Includes reading, quizzes, activities, and a final exam.

2. Local Hands-on Learning & Field Trips

Hands-on, in-person sessions held at various Cowlitz County sites. Dates and details coming soon!

3. Internship (70 volunteer hours)

After training, interns volunteer alongside certified Master Gardeners in activities like answering garden questions, maintaining demo gardens, presenting workshops, and supporting youth education.

Tuition: $275
A limited number of partial scholarships are available
More info: https://greenschool.extension.wsu.edu/home/wgs-fee-schedule/

Application Process 

  • Apply: July 1–30, 2025 APPLICATION

  • Notification: By end of August

  • Background screening: September

Ongoing Commitment
To stay certified, volunteers complete:

  • 25 service hours + 10 continuing ed hours annually

  • Annual renewal each fall (no fee required)
    Tracking hours is easy with our user-friendly online system.

WSU Extension Master Gardeners make a big impact across Washington State. Volunteers track their hours, outreach, and projects using an easy online system. These efforts are reported each year at both the local and state level to highlight and celebrate the valuable work being done.

Learn more in the 2024 WSU Extension Master Gardener Program Annual Report.

 

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WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. Evidence of noncompliance may be reported to Gary Fredricks through your local WSU Extension Office at 360-577-3014 or garyf@wsu.edu

Just some of the things we do! Click on photos to enlarge.