Information sessions for Extension training are coming soon
Contributed by E. Dianne Campbell
Registration is open, and informational meetings are scheduled: it’s time to sign up for the 2027 Fluvanna County Extension Master Gardener class. Held once a year, the training program is a 50-hour course with classes ranging from the basics of botany to the environment’s needs for water quality and good conservation practices.
Information sessions are offered at the Fluvanna Public Library on Saturday, October 24, from 2 to 3:30 p.m., and Thursday, October 29, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Those considering the program will have an opportunity to get full details and meet with other Master Gardeners to discuss interests and questions.
Classes are conducted online on Thursday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m., beginning in mid-January and continuing weekly through to mid-April. Vicki Buffmire, a longtime Extension Master Gardener, moderates the course, supported by a team of Fluvanna EMG education, coordination, and technology volunteers.
Each online class is taught by university professors and highly regarded experts in specific fields. The program also offers six Saturday morning field experiences for hands-on training with recognized local experts. There are attendance and homework requirements.
After the training, student interns complete 50 hours of volunteer service by participating in activities of their choice through the Fluvanna EMG program. A mentor is assigned to work with each student through to the completion of the full training program. In subsequent years, students must complete eight hours of continuing education and 20 hours of volunteer service to maintain Extension Master Gardener certification.
The Fluvanna EMG program is part of a nationwide network that is trained and supported through the USDA Cooperative Extension program. The research-based Master Gardener program has existed since 1973. It was designed to train interested people in the art and science of gardening so they could help their community with their gardening needs. Each chapter tailors its education to the local ecosystem.
The program costs $200, which includes all course expenses and the course text, Virginia Cooperative Extension Gardener Handbook. Financial assistance is available. Further information and a registration form are available at the Fluvanna Master Gardener website, www.fluvannamg.org. The application deadline is November 30, but earlier applications are recommended because the class fills quickly. Details are also available by contacting Brittney Redman at 434-591-1950, or by email at bredman@vt.edu.
