BECOMING A PENN STATE MASTER GARDENER
FOR ADAMS COUNTY

Recruiting for Master Gardeners is an ongoing process. Each Master Gardener is continually looking for gardeners in their community who are knowledgeable and interested in becoming a Master Gardener Volunteer. Active recruitment starts in March of each year through newspaper articles and Master Gardener brochures sent to area gardening clubs and organizations.

Files are maintained each year with names of prospective candidates. Applications are sent out to those interested giving details of the programs, requirements and commitments. When applications are returned, interviews are scheduled for mid-may. At this time, a pre-test is given to each applicant to determine their knowledge of gardening and to give each an idea of the intensive training they will be taking.

Letters of acceptance are sent out to the successful candidates with invitations to attend the monthly Master Gardener meetings to meet the present members. Mentors are assigned to each new candidate to give encouragement, advice, and assistance during their first year.

Upon completion of the required 50 hours volunteer service and successful test grade at the end of the training, the candidates are awarded a Master Gardener Certificate. Each year they are required to complete 8 hours advanced training and volunteer at least 20 hours.

If you are interested in more information on the Master Gardener program or in becoming an Adams County Master Gardener, please print out the form below and mail to: Mary Ann Ryan, 670 Old Harrisburg Road Gettysburg, PA 17325, phone 717-334-6271 Extension 319 or Email- mar35@psu.edu.