SAN ANTONIO – Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in Bexar County is now accepting applications for its first 2015 Master Gardener Intern Training class, said David Rodriguez, AgriLife Extension agent for horticulture in Bexar County.
“Master Gardener volunteer training is conducted by AgriLife Extension, and this will be Master Gardener Class No. 59 for adults interested in gardening, horticulture and related topics,” Rodriguez said.
Applications are being accepted for the Bexar County Master Gardener Intern Training Class #59 scheduled February to May 2015. (Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service photo)
Rodriguez, who helps administer the program, said classes will be conducted from noon-4 p.m. on Wednesdays from Feb. 25 to May 27 in Suite 208 of the AgriLife Extension offices in Conroy Square, 3355 Cherry Ridge Drive, San Antonio.
Master Gardener classes address topics ranging from plant growth and development to plant diseases, insects, soils, basic landscaping and garden design. Specific topics for this training will include Earth-Kind landscaping, integrated pest management, home orchards and vegetable gardens, water conservation, rainwater harvesting and turfgrass selection and care.
Those completing classroom training and passing the final exam will be required to complete a minimum of 50 hours of volunteer service toward youth and adult education outreach, Rodriguez said.
Individuals completing the training become certified Master Gardeners, assisting AgriLife Extension through community education in horticulture, he said. And program participants’ volunteer hours may be applied to a variety of approved projects discussed during training.
“Acceptance to the class is based on the person’s willingness to volunteer and the completeness of their application,” Rodriguez said. “Master Gardeners support the community by providing information and advice on gardening and landscaping, providing technical assistance, supporting the local green industry, and being involved in a variety of horticulture-related community service projects.”
Class size is limited to 30 participants, and the deadline for submitting an application is Feb. 9.
Applications are available at the AgriLife Extension office or online at http://bexar-tx.tamu.edu. They can be emailed to Angel Torres at matorres@ag.tamu.edu, faxed to 210-930-1753 or mailed to Master Gardener Training, 3355 Cherry Ridge Dr., Suite 208, San Antonio, Texas 78230-4818.
The fee for the training is $250 to cover the cost of instruction and materials. It is payable in full on the first day of class.
“A background check is required on all applicants participating in the Master Gardener program, and this will be done on the first day of class,” Rodriguez said.
For more information, contact Torres at 210-467-6575.
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