Master Gardener Program Reinvigorated

Published: 2022
By Molly Yurdana

Due to Covid restrictions, Gallatin County MSU Extension wasn't able to offer in-person Master Gardener courses to the community for two years. While Molly Yurdana was the Agriculture/Horticulture Agent, she worked to reinvigorate Master Gardener within the Gallatin community. The Level 1 workshop series, held March-April, educated 56 participants, 35 of whom pursued official certifications by passing an exam and completing 20 horticulture-related volunteer hours within the community. The Level 2 course, held September-November, hosted 13 participants with avid home gardening or professional green industry experience. With the proximity to MSU’s campus, Yurdana recruited specialists and faculty guest speakers who taught various topics for both levels of the curriculum. The Gallatin County Master Gardener volunteers work in various community and senior center gardens, at local farmers’ market informational booths, or assist with city improvement projects.