Cornell Cooperative Extension

Washington County

Master Gardener Job Description

The master gardener program is designed to develop a program delivery system and necessary teaching resources to assist the Horticulture Program Assistant in meeting the needs of the county residents with horticultural related problems.

Volunteer’s responsibilities:

  • Participate actively in training sessions and keep up-to-date on the latest horticulture information.
  • Answer consumer questions on horticulture related information for both phone consultations and personal contacts.
  • Provide reliable, unbiased information Always representing both sides of an issue.
  • Promote enrollment in Cooperative Extension.
  • Maintain records of program contacts monthly.
  • Teach basic horticultural classes to appropriate community groups

Assists with any or all of the following options:

  • Washington County Fair Booth
  • Soil Testing Clinics
  • Plant Diagnostic Clinics

Volunteer’s Qualifications:

  • Basic knowledge of gardening
  • Enthusiasm
  • Interest in helping people
  • Ability to communicate
  • Knowledge of community resources
  • Belief in the value of extension’s educational programs

Training and/or Resources to be Provided:

  • Master Gardener training sessions
  • Master Gardener reference manuals available for use in office or home purchase
  • Horticulture library in office
  • Consultations with extension staff
  • Monthly organizational/ educational meetings

Time Estimate:

  • Master Gardener training session(15 weeks- one weekday per week, 5 hours per session. First year mandatory – following years optional with individual sessions up to the discretion of the participants).
  • Two half days per month of volunteer service (8 hours)
  • Monthly organizational/ educational meetings (3 hours)

Benefits:

  • Participate in training programs in all aspects of basic horticulture.
  • Learn new skills and sharpen old ones.
  • Meet and work with other individuals interested in horticulture
  • Acquire valuable work experience (a personnel file is started for each volunteer and includes the initial application, a record of completed training, an annual informal evaluation of job performance and copies of all reference letters sent to prospective employers).
  • Receive basic program materials provided at no cost.

Volunteer Application Click Here for PDF

Contact

Brian Gilchrist
Executive Director
btg5@cornell.edu
(518) 746-2560

Last updated April 24, 2015

Master Gardener