The University of Maine Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Volunteers program in Knox, Lincoln and Waldo counties is accepting applications. Classes meet from 1 - 4:30 p.m., Oct. 4 through Nov. 15, and resume March 21 through May 2.  The program will be held primarily at the UMaine Extension  Knox-Lincoln office, 377 Manktown Road, Waldoboro; some classes will be at the Waldo County Extension office, 992 Waterville Road, Waldo. Carpooling is encouraged.

The 45-hour program offers research-based information from Extension specialists and industry experts. Core classes include an introduction to Extension and volunteerism, understanding soils and organic matter, basic botany, integrated pest and disease management, and pesticide safety. Specialized classes include growing vegetables, tree and small fruit for Maine, and food safety.   

Participants will also plan and choose two hands-on workshops and after the course is complete in late spring, will begin volunteering at approved community sites. Projects include school and community gardens, conducting educational talks and workshops, growing and gleaning produce for food pantries, and civic beautification.  

Tuition is $220 per person; limited financial assistance is available. Apply online by Aug. 24. Applicants will be notified of acceptance; a required background check will be paid for by UMaine Extension. For more information or to request a reasonable accommodation, contact Liz Stanley, 207.832.0343, elizabeth.stanley@maine.edu. 

University of Maine Cooperative Extension:

As a trusted resource for over 100 years, University of Maine Cooperative Extension has supported UMaine's land and sea grant public education role by conducting community-driven, research-based programs in every Maine county. UMaine Extension helps support, sustain and grow the food-based economy. It is the only entity in our state that touches every aspect of the Maine Food System, where policy, research, production, processing, commerce, nutrition, and food security and safety are integral and interrelated. UMaine Extension also conducts the most successful out-of-school youth educational program in Maine through 4-H.