Master Gardener volunteers help their neighbors understand and use research-based information and practices that can improve their quality of life while minimizing negative impacts on the environment and natural resources.
Master Gardeners strive to make scientific knowledge understandable to all. They inspire and encourage lifelong learning through continued scientific exploration and discovery.
Because of the work of Master Gardeners, more people are growing food locally, planting pollinator-friendly gardens, and creating resilient landscapes that help manage stormwater runoff.
Now more than ever before, Master Gardener volunteers are connecting with people to share University research-based knowledge on priorities important to Minnesota residents: horticultural skills, plant biodiversity, pollinators, clean water, local food, climate change, and nearby nature.
Find annual reports from past years in this collection.
Expanding outreach and promoting volunteer work of great public value
Master Gardener volunteers use community-engagement toolkits that are developed around the program’s priorities to deliver education to communities across the state.
Educational materials covering the topics Water Wisely, Flowers for Pollinators and Vegetables for Everyone are growing awareness of issues critical to many towns and cities in Minnesota.
Regional gatherings offer specialized training
Each year, the State Leadership Team and the State Advisory Board hold regional educational gatherings across Minnesota. Master Gardeners in all areas of the state can connect with program leadership and other volunteers, offer feedback about the program, network with other county programs, and receive specialized training. In this way, our program can continuously improve and provide relevant resources to address regional concerns.
Extension Master Gardeners are continually learning
Each year, the State Leadership Team and a conference planning committee of Master Gardener volunteers coordinate and host an educational event for program members. During the conference, Master Gardener volunteers attend workshops, network with peers, and explore ways to inspire and engage people in their communities.
Invest in the statewide Master Gardener Volunteer Program
- Sustain the statewide program with a donation to the Master Gardener General Fund.
- Help Master Gardeners participate in the Core Course and other training with a donation to the Master Gardener Education Access Fund.
- Support the creation of training materials and resources for Master Gardeners with a donation to the Pamela M. Hartley Extension Master Gardener Educational Fund.
- Invest in your local Master Gardener Volunteer Program. Use the drop-down menu on the funding page to find your county.
Reviewed in 2026