The Master Gardener Program is a volunteer training program conducted by OSU Extension, designed to help the county extension centers meet the growing demand for consumer horticulture information. Master Gardeners have classroom training coordinated by Laura Payne, the Payne County Horticulture Educator with the assistance of state extension specialists and other county educators. After classroom training is completed, program participants are involved in an internship program of volunteer service. Volunteer service components vary depending on the students' interests, but in all cases are educational, extension related, and represent the interests of University Extension.

 

Master Gardeners have become a vital part of Extension's ability to provide consumers with up-to-date, unbiased, research-based information. Master Gardening has also become a popular volunteer activity that gives its participants a sense of community spirit, accomplishment, and intellectual stimulation. To learn more, please visit the Payne County Master Gardener Facebook page.