Become A Master Gardener in Wisconsin
To become a Master Gardener in Wisconsin, you must be a resident, participate in the Master Gardener online training program called "Growing and Caring for Plants in Wisconsin: Foundations in Gardening" (next course: Fall 2024), pass the course exam, pass a background check and participate in an Onboarding course. The University of Wisconsin Extension administers the online course and credentials you as a Certified Master Gardener (MG).
To maintain Wisconsin Master Gardener credentials, MGs must meet yearly volunteer and continuing education requirements and report them to the University of Wisconsin Extension by the end of 4th quarter.
After passing the course and becoming credentialed, MGs living in Pierce and St. Croix counties can receive ongoing support and guidance, if desired, by becoming a member of the St. Croix Valley Master Gardeners Association (SCVMGA). Further support is provided by the Wisconsin Master Gardener Association (WIMGA) which offers state support and leadership to MGs in Wisconsin. If you join SCVMGA, a portion of your SCVMGA dues automatically pays your annual membership in WIMGA.
What do you get with your memberships? The associations of SCVMGA and WIMGA create a and fun useful network that provide MGs with a sense of community spirit, accomplishment and an opportunity to learn more about horticulture. SCVMGA also provides members with opportunities to volunteer their skills in the community. Monthly SCVMGA meetings are held for members. In addition, members are supported through email communications, a bi-monthly newsletter, our SCVMGA website and the SCVMGA Facebook page.
To maintain Wisconsin Master Gardener credentials, MGs must meet yearly volunteer and continuing education requirements and report them to the University of Wisconsin Extension by the end of 4th quarter.
After passing the course and becoming credentialed, MGs living in Pierce and St. Croix counties can receive ongoing support and guidance, if desired, by becoming a member of the St. Croix Valley Master Gardeners Association (SCVMGA). Further support is provided by the Wisconsin Master Gardener Association (WIMGA) which offers state support and leadership to MGs in Wisconsin. If you join SCVMGA, a portion of your SCVMGA dues automatically pays your annual membership in WIMGA.
What do you get with your memberships? The associations of SCVMGA and WIMGA create a and fun useful network that provide MGs with a sense of community spirit, accomplishment and an opportunity to learn more about horticulture. SCVMGA also provides members with opportunities to volunteer their skills in the community. Monthly SCVMGA meetings are held for members. In addition, members are supported through email communications, a bi-monthly newsletter, our SCVMGA website and the SCVMGA Facebook page.
What can I do as a Master Gardener?
- After receiving university research-based horticulture training, MGs are equipped to address the needs and opportunities in their Pierce and St. Croix communities and throughout the state. MGs teach others about horticulture--answering gardening questions, doing presentations, helping with displays/demonstrations at county fairs, and other venues.
- MGs plant, maintain, and harvest at New Richmond SCVMGA Community Garden, and other community gardens.
- MGs plan, organize and execute our highly anticipated SCVMGA June Plant Sale, our biggest annual fundraiser that provides over $5,000 each year in community grants.
- We participate in the Demonstration & Learning Garden in River Falls, Wisconsin.
- MGs staff "Ask a Master Gardener" Q & A booths at farmers markets in Hudson and River Falls.
- We design, plant & maintain parks, gardens, other public areas.
- MGs plan, organize and participate in activities for youth (Junior Garden U, Earth Day, 4-H groups)
- MGs plan, organize and produce two educational events every year-- the SCVMGA "Garden U" and the SCVMGA "Fall Workshop."
- MGs can join an SCVMGA garden group to gain additional knowledge and confidence to make presentations for community groups .
- Write article of horticultural interest for SCVMGA's Sprinklings newsletter, website, or speak at monthly SCVMGA meeting
- Identify problem areas that need education
- MGs serve on committees within the SCVMGA organization to keep "all of the moving parts" running well and functioning for the ultimate benefit of the communities we live in.
Just to recap:
To become a certified Master Gardener in Pierce or St. Croix county, individuals must...
After the first year of certification, Master Gardeners must complete the following annually to maintain certification...
- Complete the University of Wisconsin Extension Master Gardener Program online course in the Fall (fee based--approx $299)
- Pass a final exam
- Pass a background check
- Participate in an Onboarding course (fee based--approx $125)
- Perform 24 hours volunteer service within first year following training
After the first year of certification, Master Gardeners must complete the following annually to maintain certification...
- 10 hours continuing education
- 24 hours of volunteer service
Don't Forget...What you Get
--with the St. Croix Valley Master Gardener Association--
The St. Croix Valley Master Gardeners Association is your local affiliate Master Gardener organization offering support in fulfilling volunteer and continuing education obligations for certification by the University of Wisconsin Extension.
But, it is so much more!
With the St. Croix Valley Master Gardeners, you'll be able to:
Annual SCVMGA dues are a low $15 (single membership) or $20 (household). Remember, your SCVMGA dues cover your membership in WIMGA.
Are you a Wisconsin Master Gardener interested in joining the SCVMGA? Click HERE to be directed to the signup page.
But, it is so much more!
With the St. Croix Valley Master Gardeners, you'll be able to:
- Meet people who share your interests
- Learn and share ideas about gardening and horticulture with members and your community
- Participate in fun SCVMGA sponsored events
- Attend monthly SCVMGA meetings and summer tours
- Find new opportunities to earn volunteer community service hours
- Receive up-to-date information on continuing education for certification
- Gain membership in the Wisconsin Master Gardener Association (WIMGA)
- Keep up with events in member newsletters, email communications, our website and facebook page -- PLUS the WIMGA newsletter!
Annual SCVMGA dues are a low $15 (single membership) or $20 (household). Remember, your SCVMGA dues cover your membership in WIMGA.
Are you a Wisconsin Master Gardener interested in joining the SCVMGA? Click HERE to be directed to the signup page.