SAN ANTONIO – Texas AgriLife Extension Service in Bexar County is now taking applications for its next Master Gardener volunteer training class, said David Rodriguez, AgriLife Extension agent for horticulture in Bexar County.
“Master Gardener volunteer training is conducted by AgriLife Extension and this will be Master Gardener Class No. 56 for adults interested in gardening, horticulture and related topics,” Rodriguez said.
Currently there are more than 370 certified Master Gardener volunteers in the Bexar County Master Gardener program, he noted.
Bexar County Master Gardener volunteers are involved in numerous community service and education-related programs and activities. (Bexar County Master Gardener association photo courtesy of Lou Kellogg)
Rodriguez, who helps administer the program, said classes will be conducted from noon-4 p.m. on Wednesdays from Aug. 22 – Nov. 14 in Suite 208 of the AgriLife Extension offices in Conroy Square, 3355 Cherry Ridge Drive, San Antonio.
Master Gardener classes will address topics ranging from plant growth and development to plant diseases, insects, soils, basic landscaping and garden design.
Those completing classroom training and passing the final exam will be required to complete a minimum of 50 hours of volunteer service toward youth and/or adult education outreach, Rodriguez said.
Individuals completing the training become certified Master Gardeners, assisting AgriLife Extension through community education in horticulture, he said. And program participant volunteer hours may be applied to a variety of approved projects discussed during training.
“Acceptance to the class is based on the person’s willingness to volunteer and the completeness of their application,” Rodriguez said. “Master Gardeners support the community by providing information and advice on gardening and landscaping, providing technical assistance, supporting the local green industry, and being involved in a variety of horticulture-related community service projects.”
Class size is limited to 40 participants. The deadline for submitting an application is Aug. 15.
Applications are available at the AgriLife Extension office or online at http://bexar-tx.tamu.edu/2012/07/10/master-gardener-class-56/. They can be emailed to Angel Torres at matorres@ag.tamu.edu, faxed to 210-930-1753 or mailed to Master Gardener Training, 3355 Cherry Ridge Dr., Suite 208, San Antonio, Texas 78230-4818.
The fee for the training is $220 to cover the cost of instruction and materials, and is payable upon acceptance into the program. Checks should be made payable to Hort Acct. 218310-60003.
For more information, contact Torres at 210-467-6575 or matorres@ag.tamu.edu.
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