The Texas Master Gardener Program

Step 1: To gain the title of Master Gardener Intern, a Trainee

- receives a minimum of fifty (50) hours of instruction

- passes an examination

- Passes a background screening

- Sign a volunteer agreement

The volunteer aspect of the Master Gardener program allows individuals to dedicate their time and talents to educate and enhance their local community utilizing the science and art of horticulture.

Step 2: Master Gardener Interns:

- give 50 hours of volunteer service in AgriLife Extension initiated projects in Somervell/Johnson/Hood County within one year of their training date.

- are certified as a Master Gardener when all requirements are met

Step 3: Re-certification of a Master Gardener is an annual process that requires:

- 20 volunteer service hours

- 10 hours of continuing education credits

- Pass a background screening every 3 years

- Sign a volunteer agreement

The Master Gardener training program is for twelve (12) months. Upon completion of all requirements, participants are certified as Texas Master Gardeners. Master Gardeners then re-certify annually through volunteer service and continuing education.

1. I desire to be a Master Gardener volunteer in Somervell County. I understand that Master Gardeners are trained volunteers - community educators, who share their horticultural knowledge and gardening experience with their fellow citizens. If accepted in the Master Gardener training program, to complete certification:

• I will volunteer a minimum of 50 hours in Extension initiated education programs in 2025.

• I will complete the classroom training course, including a final exam.

• I understand to re-certify annually, a minimum of 20 volunteer hours and 10 hours of continuing Education is required in Extension sanctioned programs

• I agree to a background check - Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service volunteer requirement

Signature acknowledges the above requirements:*

Your Name*

First NameLast Name

Address*

Street Address

Street Address Line 2

CityState / Province

Postal / Zip Code

Email*

example@example.com

Phone Number*

County and Number of years living there:*

Emergency Contacts*

Birthdate*

Date

Professional/Personal experience:*

Volunteer and/or community service: List the organization and what you do/did (school/youth group/church/hospital/civic group)*

Why do you want to become a volunteer in Extension’s Master Gardener program?*

How did you learn about Extension’s Master Gardener Volunteer Program?*

Are you presently employed, and if so, where?*

Availability Information*

Rows	Morning	Afternoon	Evening
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday

What is your gardening/horticulture and related fields experience and/or training? Include experience or knowledge of vegetables, herbs, roses, composting, propagation, turf, trees, fruit, nuts, perennials, etc. What is your gardening story? – When did you start gardening, have you worked professionally in horticulture or a related field, what is your favorite thing about gardening, etc.*

I acknowledge that completion of this form still requires payment brough to my local county office to be fully enrolled in the class.

Questions & Concerns

Statements of Agreement

- I understand that the Master Gardener program is a program sponsored by the Somervell County office of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.

- I understand that as a Certified Texas Master Gardener, I represent – Somervell County, the Somervell County office of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, and The Texas A&M System and will adhere to their policies and guidelines.

Volunteer Candidate Signature*

Date*

Date