Master Gardener Volunteer Program
Manitowoc County Master Gardener Volunteers
Master Gardener Volunteers are trained volunteers who aid University of Wisconsin-Cooperative Extension staff in helping communities better understand horticulture. This national program was introduced in Wisconsin in 1977.
The Master Gardener Volunteer training began in Manitowoc County in September, 1994. The goal of the program is to educate and encourage volunteers to help the public with their horticulture inquiries. Benefits of the program include:
- new interests
- new skills
- opportunities
- friendships
- leadership
- education
The purpose of the Wisconsin Master Gardener Volunteer Program is to provide unbiased, research-based horticultural information to the citizens of Wisconsin through Master Gardener volunteers. Master Gardener Volunteers receive training in horticulture through the University of Wisconsin Extension. In return for their training, Master Gardeners volunteer in UW-Extension horticulture programs and projects which enhance the community.
Who Can Join?
Any individual 18 or older can participate in the Master Gardener Volunteer Program. No previous experience or training is necessary.
How To Become A Certified Master Gardener Volunteer
To become certified, you must attend a designated training session, pass a final exam, fulfill a volunteer commitment to your community, and pay annual dues. You will then receive a diploma and a Master Gardener Volunteer name tag at the annual awards banquet. Once certified, you can only use your Master Gardener Volunteer title when you are involved in an Extension project. Be sure to wear your name tag at all Master Gardener Volunteer activities.
As part of the Manitowoc County Master Gardener Volunteers organization, you can participate in Master Gardener Volunteer sponsored events including:
- plant clinics
- horticulture classes
- monthly meetings
- helping UW-Extension customers
- Manitowoc Lincoln Park Zoo
- Chamber of Commerce Garden
- Silver Lake County Park
- many others
The volunteer opportunities are endless. Many Master Gardener Volunteers enthusiastically volunteer their time beyond the required minimum number of hours.
Ready To Get Involved?
For more information: If you’re ready to get involved, contact any Master Gardener Volunteer or your Manitowoc County UW-Extension office at 920-683-4168 or 920-683-4169.
Master Gardeners Executive Board
President – Pat Hollen, (920) 682-5028
Vice President – Pat Wiegert, (920) 793-4611
Secretary – Judy Tisler, (920) 732-3258
Treasurer – Doris Magyar, (920) 755-2573
Volunteer Coordinators – Rosie & Dorothy Bugs, (920) 682-1343
Education Chair – Rosie Bugs, (920) 682-1343
State Rep. – Dorothy Bugs, (920) 683-1343
