Mission and Purpose of the Master Gardener Program
The WSU Extension Master Gardener Program began in 1972 in King and Pierce Counties, Washington. The Pierce County Master Gardener program is one of the largest in the world. The program now exists in all 50 states and many other countries.
Master Gardener volunteers are trained para-professionals who work in their communities as horticulture advisors and resources for home and community gardeners. Originally focused on diagnosing plant problems, the program now also offers proactive educational programs that address critical issues such as water quality protection through rain gardens and safer pest management practices, as well as vegetable and small fruit growing for the home gardeners. Master Gardeners work with all citizens, including children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.
The WSU Extension Master Gardener Program is open to everyone with an interest in gardening and a willingness to use their knowledge, experience and enthusiasm to make a positive impact on their local community. Are you interested in becoming a WSU Pierce County Master Gardener?
The WSU Master Gardener program provides public education in gardening and environmental stewardship generated from research-based information by WSU Extension adn other university systems. Volunteers are trained by WSU faculty and staff to be community educators about issues of importance in their local communities, such as enchancing natural resources, sustaining vibrant communities, and improving the health and wellness of Washington residents. The following priorities help participants achieve and maintain the intent of the program:
- Clear Purpose - When considering a new project, WSU MG program staff and volunteers must look for a strong education component
- Diverse Audiences - Because our communities represent a diversified population, so should our programs and staff. The land-grant university system was built on the principles that all people should have access to education and land-grant universities "should serve the needs of the common person". MGs must continue the land-grant university tradition by ensuring that the programs and people delivering them are available and applicable to all residents.
- Critical Issues - As a public good suported by taxpayers, WSU MG projects must be relevant to the larger issues facing society - protecting evnvironmental quality, ending hunger, building strong and safe neighborhoods, and growing healthy children
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