Our mission is to learn, teach and promote locally sustainable gardening through reliable, current, research-based practices.
What are the benefits of being a Master Gardener?
Master Gardeners are highly regarded in the community and enjoy a host of benefits that include:
membership in a group of committed, talented, like-minded individuals who share a passion for gardening and with whom a gardening dialogue is always available
training in research-based and locally sustainable horticultural practices
access to information and learning opportunities with NMSU educators and other experts in the field including authors, local nurserymen and specialists
the prestige and recognition for being part of an internationally respected organization
the opportunity to be of genuine service to homeowners, schools and organizations in the community that need horticulture information and support
valuable hands-on experience and learning through gardening events, classes and work projects available to Master Gardeners only
What does it mean to be an MG?
The SFMGA and County Extension Service believe that active citizen participation is the cornerstone of community growth. Created to serve anyone interested in gardening, the SFMGA has grown to become a fun and useful volunteer activity, supporting the gardening needs of the Santa Fe public while offering its members continued learning and a vital sense of community spirit and personal accomplishment.
What is a Master Gardener?
A Master Gardener is a student who:
successfully completes the training by attending at least 14 of the 16 training sessions and achieves a passing grade (70) on all take home tests.
completes an internship by volunteering a minimum of 30 hours, ending March 31, 2011.
each year thereafter, performs a minimum of 25 volunteer service hours and pays $25 annual membership dues to maintain their certification.
What other skills does the SFMGA need besides gardening?
We have lots of opportunities for students, interns and MGs to contribute personal skills as project leaders, writers, computer techies, social organizers, graphic designers, teachers, garden designers, carpenters and many others. Applicants are asked to check the areas they can support on the application.
What does the training course consist of?
The classes run once a week (3 hours) for 16 weeks. NMSU and local educators teach the classes in lecture and PowerPoint format. Each student is given a permanent class binder that includes handouts for each class. After each class session, students are given a take home test. Passing score is 70 and students are expected to pass 14 of the 16 tests. Students are allowed to miss two classes without penalty but must make up tests for missed classes. Students successfully completing the training become interns for one year. All classes are taught in English.
What is the curriculum for the training?
The curriculum is focused around the sustainable garden. Topics covered are: Soils, Environmental Concerns, Water Systems, Design, Hardscape, Plant Selection, Common Santa Fe Plant Problems and Integrated Pest Management plus additional training on handling public gardening inquiries. Anyone wishing to view a sample class binder may call the County Extension office at 471.4711.
What are the volunteer requirements for interns?
Interns complete 30 hours in three categories: 12 hours of Public Contact (PC) directly advising the public on gardening issues on the hotline or at an MG information booth, 14 hours of Hands-On (HO) work in one of our project gardens and 4 hours of Organization (ORG) activity which is any non-gardening work such as planning, committee work and working at the Garden Fair.
In a nutshell…