Brought to you through a partnership between the Dale County Chronicle, Alabama Extension Master Gardeners, and Claybank Master Gardeners. Through this partnership, we will bring you weekly articles and special features related to the Master Gardeners.
“Grow Your Passion: Become an Alabama Extension Master Gardener Volunteer“
By: Megan Jones, Home Horticulture Extension Agent, Barbour, Bullock, Dale Henry, and Houston Counties
Do you love plants? Are you looking for a meaningful way to give back to your community? If so, becoming an Alabama Extension Master Gardener volunteer might be the perfect opportunity for you.
Extension Master Gardener volunteers are trained through the Alabama Cooperative Extension System with Auburn University to connect residents with research-based gardening information and educational programs. Whether answering questions, leading workshops, or supporting community projects, these volunteers play a vital role in promoting successful home gardening across the state.
One of the best parts? You don’t have to be a gardening expert to get started. All that’s required is a willingness to learn, grow, and serve.
How to Become Certified
After completing the application and passing a background check, to become a certified Alabama Extension Master Gardener volunteer, participants must complete two key steps:
- Earn an Extension Master Gardener Course Certificate
- Complete at least 50 volunteer hours within a 12-month period
The Alabama Extension Master Gardener program represents an effective partnership between the land grant universities of this state, Alabama Extension agents, and motivated volunteers. Local associations partner with their Home Horticulture Extension Agent to educate residents and volunteer within the community. The concept of the Extension Master Gardener volunteer program began at Washington State University. In Alabama, it began in 1981 with Extension agent Gary Murray and Mary Lou McNabb, a Cornell Extension Master Gardener, who moved to Huntsville.
Fall 2026 Training Details
The Fall 2026 Master Gardener Class will be hosted in Ozark at the Dale County Extension Office and local lab locations. The Claybank Master Gardener Association is the host group in Dale County.
Key Dates and Information:
- Applications Open: June 1 until June 30
- Early Bird Discount: Apply by June 15 for a reduced fee of $150
- Regular Registration: $175 from June 16 until June 30
- Class Schedule: Thursdays, August 13 – November 5
- Time: 9:45 AM – 2:30 PM
Please note that this program requires in-person attendance, online modules, along with active participation in approved Extension volunteer projects.
Get Involved
If you, or someone you know, might be interested in joining the program, now is the time to start planning. Applications will be available throughout the month of June.
For more information, contact Megan Jones at [email protected], your local County Extension Office, or visit the Alabama Extension https://www.aces.edu/go/mgv for more information.
Claybank Master Gardeners at Make a Difference Day, supporting our community and sprucing up flower beds at Bridlewood Chapel. Pictured left to right: Susan Kenny, Leah Richardson, Janet Shinaberry, Susan Rigsby, Dee Gilbert, Paige Tebbe-Stephens, Darlene Enke, front: Mickey Breedlove.
