Putnam County Master Gardener Program Accepting Applications

West Virginia University Extension Service in Putnam County is accepting applications for the 2017 Putnam County Master Gardener (MG) Program, as well as MG programs in surrounding counties.  This program consists of a volunteer training course designed to provide home gardeners with the information and skills necessary to share their experience and knowledge with others.  Starting in September, there will be thirteen, three-hour night classes held weekly.   Those interested in participating should attend an orientation meeting at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, August 8^th at the Old Winfield Courthouse (12093 Winfield Road, Winfield).

Putnam County Master Gardener, Myra Simmons, shows a student from West Teays Elementary how to look for insect pests. 

In exchange for 40 hours of indoor and outdoor instruction, candidates agree to donate 40 hours of volunteer service to West Virginia University Extension Service.  Volunteer activities currently carried out by Master Gardeners in Putnam County include participation in: 1) community gardens to provide vegetables for the local food bank, 2) garden-based learning programs with the teachers and students of the Putnam County school system, and 3) assisting WVU Extension Service with Farmers’ Markets and Putnam County Fair activities.  Last year, the PCMG assisted nearly 1200 students in garden-based learning programs. The students, plant, manage, harvest, weigh, sell and eat vegetables that they grow themselves.  

There is a program fee of $100 to cover the cost of the training manual and other materials.  Applications are being accepted through August 29^th.  For more information and to receive an application, please contact (304-586-0217) the West Virginia University Extension office located in the Old Winfield Courthouse.