The deadline is fast approaching for the Coos County Master Gardener training which begins January 9 in Coos Bay. The deadline to apply is Friday, Dec. 13. Applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis, so those interested are encouraged to get their forms turned in as soon as possible. The Master Gardener annual training course is taught by OSU professionals and local experts who offer research based information to help gardeners, or wanna-be gardeners, increase their gardening enjoyment and knowledge. Classes such as botany, entomology, and composting help trainees become more skilled and confident in their gardening skills. To become an OSU Extension Master Gardener Volunteer each student must attend the training sessions, pass an open-book exam, and volunteer 60 hours of horticultural service to the community from mid-March through October 31, 2014.
Cost of the 10-week training is $150, $50 of which is refunded upon completion of the program requirements. Participants will receive a copy of EM8742 Sustainable Gardening: the Oregon and Washington Master Gardener Handbook plus detailed handouts. Classes will be held at the South Coast Education Service District office in Coos Bay and at the Coos County Extension Service in Myrtle Point. Over 130 people have shown interest in participating in this training, so early application is recommended for the 30 trainee slots available. Request an application packet by calling the Extension Service at 541-572-5263, ext. 240 or 299. You may also visit http://extension.oregonstate.edu/coos and click on Master Gardening Training 2014. For more information call Coordinator Cindy Peterson at 541-572-5263, ext. 299.
