The South Dakota MG program offers over 60 hours of instruction that covers topics in lawn care, selection and care of ornamental trees and shrubs; insect, disease, and weed control; safe use of pesticides; soils and plant nutrition; vegetable, fruit and flower gardening; plant propagation and herbaceous plants. The training in includes classroom instruction as well as outdoor learning experiences. Trainees are encouraged to bring in plant, insect and disease samples to share with the class. Participants are also encouraged to relate their own gardening experiences with the group so that everyone can learn from each other's personal experiences. Since many of the people involved in the Master Gardener training program are already avid gardeners, everyone becomes a resource for the other gardeners.
In exchange for the training, participants are required to return 50 hours of volunteer time to their county extension program over the next two years. The type of service done by Master Gardeners varies, but will have as a goal helping educate others about gardening. For example, some volunteers answer telephone requests for information related to gardening, while others host plant clinics or build displays, speak to local groups, or assist with the 4-H program. Master Gardeners also help establish and maintain community garden plots, write local gardening news articles, or help with the horticulture exhibits at county achievement days and at the State Fair.
The cost of regular training which includes the 60+ hours of training and the South Dakota Master Gardener resource manual is as follows: Single individual - $160, Two individuals sharing a manual - $210. Each participant is expected to then contribute 50 hours of volunteer service over the next two years to complete their training and become a full-fledged Master Gardener. Or, if an individual desires, they may sign up at a cost of $450 which provides the same training materials and resources but removes the 50 hour payback requirement, and does not lead to status as an Extension Master Gardener.
Master Gardener classes will held in Aberdeen, Huron, Rapid City, and Sioux Falls in 2008. Click here for typical schedule with topics covered.
Application forms are available online for Regular Training with 50 hours volunteer service and Training with return service buy-out.
Contact your local county extension office for application materials and more details. Or contact Rhoda Burrows via email, at Box 2140A, SDSU, Brookings, SD 57007, or at (605) 688-4731 for additional information. HURRY, classes will fill up fast!
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Most recent revision Dec. 14, 2007.