Yesterday I attended the orientation for the Master Gardener Program for which I had applied back in June, and was (happily!) accepted to in August. The Master Gardener Program is run by the University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources Cooperative Extension. Programs are set up by county (about 45 counties in California have programs) and a limited number of applicants are selected from each county to partake in the 3 month intensive training course and subsequent volunteer intern program.
The great news is that anyone can apply, even urban gardening amateurs like myself who have no formal horticulture training. Applicants are selected based on a wide range of gardening interests and experiences. And the best part- the entire training course is designed as a volunteer intern and community education program, so the cost is astoundingly low. This is a great thing. I wish more educational programs could incorporate volunteer service and this "pay if forward" model. It benefits the individual and the community.
For more information, check out the Master Gardener Program website.
And for me, one of the most exciting parts is that many of my classes will be held at the UC Elkus Ranch... that has GOATS. Yes, I got a little bit of goat-petting heaven yesterday. I also got to hang out with some chickens, cows and a bunch of genius gardening nuts too!
And did I mention the gardens?!
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