Our classes are designed for people who have a busy schedule but are able to attend classes and labs within Nelson County. Typically, the class takes about six months to complete. Much of the material that will be covered in the book and the online PowerPoint modules can be done to fit a variety of schedules. There are several things to keep in mind about joining a class, however, including the following requirements:
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Have access to some type of computer/tablet device that will allow the student to study online modules and complete assigned quizzes online using a computer (or other device)
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Participate in all scheduled meetings of required training as described in the syllabus (up to 3 hours), including an orientation class, mandatory and self-selected elective labs, a final open book review, and read all chapters of the VT Handbook (available both in hard copy and digitally). Not all chapters in the Handbook will be covered in depth
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Study all online learning modules and pass all online quizzes related to the learning modules (open book)
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Pass a comprehensive open book final review
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Participate in at least one plant sale activity in the spring, leading up to the plant sale (typically in May), under the guidance of an experienced Master Gardener Volunteer who will demonstrate how to dig/divide or pot plants
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Attend at least 2 Saturdays at the Nelson County Master Gardener table at the Nelson Farmers’ Market during the market season. You will be accompanied by at least one experienced Master Gardener
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VT requires all Master Gardener student applicants to pass a minimal online background check prior to being accepted as a student, and to complete Risk Management and Civil Rights training once every 3 years
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After approximately the first six weeks of class, students are eligible to start earning the 50 volunteer hours (working on approved projects in Nelson County) that are needed to become a Master Gardener Volunteer. Volunteer hours can be completed during the time you are a student and/or within the first year after you complete the training class. See list of approved projects below.
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Note: All 50 volunteer hours need to be completed on approved projects in Nelson County. In rare cases trainees or interns might be allowed to accrue up to 5 volunteer hours working on approved Master Gardener projects in adjacent counties. Permission must be given for those exceptions.
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After you complete the training and 50 volunteer hours, you will become a Master Gardener Volunteer. Each successive year Master Gardener Volunteers remain active by contributing 20 hours of volunteer work each year, in addition to taking 8 hours of approved continuing education per year. You are also encouraged to join the Nelson County Master Gardener Association, which holds monthly meetings and provides opportunities for continuing education. Dues are currently $25 per year. Meetings are held once a month (except July and August).
Dates –A class is now in the planning stages for February to May in 2025. If you have submitted an interest form you will be contacted.
​Cost is (which included registration, a digital V$150 for 2025. T Handbook, a required background check, plus incidental class costs). For those who prefer a hardcopy of the Handbook, that will be available at an additional cost.
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Meetings –Every effort will be made to have in-person meetings; however, there may be a few that will take place on Zoom. All classes and meetings will be in Nelson County.
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Nelson County Master Gardener Approved Projects
Below is the current list of approved projects that Nelson County Master Gardeners are actively conducting. Students are welcome to participate in any of interest.
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Demonstration Garden – Educational interaction with the public while planting and maintaining public garden at the Nelson Center, Lovingston
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Farmers’ Market – Sharing knowledge of science-based solutions to gardening problems at Nellysford Farmers’ Market
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Mallory Creek – Educational interaction with the public while planting and maintaining public garden at the Nelson Center, Lovingston
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Other – New projects (must be approved by Extension Agent) can be created, based on community needs, educational value and availability of resources
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Committees
There are several committees that members can become involved in, including:
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Communications – Keeping members and the public well informed, through social media, email, and print, about upcoming events.
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Continuing Education – Identifying and inviting guest speakers to present at the monthly Nelson County Master Gardener meetings.
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Help Desk – Researching and providing science-based answers to garden questions from Nelson County residents.
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Plant Sale – Participating in digs and plant preparation for Master Gardener plant sale day in May.
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Training Class –Organizing and training the next class of Master Gardeners.
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Scholarship – Selecting worthy Nelson County High School applicant(s) for scholarship assistance.
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Social –Helping to organize Nelson County Master Gardener Association social functions throughout the year.