After taking Washington State University Master Gardener training, I had no idea how much time I would eventually be devoting to this important program. I knew I would be putting in at least 60 hours the first year, to fulfill my internship, but I had no idea I would volunteer for more than 4,000 hours during the next 17 years.

Now I know what you’re thinking, “Why would anyone do that?”

The training you receive from the WSU Extension is centered around environmental and horticultural research from the university, where the Master Gardener program originated. During training, this research is presented by highly qualified teachers in a very friendly atmosphere. During my internship after training, I used this training and previous college horticultural classes to develop a community garden in Cosmopolis, along with two other Master Gardeners. This was the beginning of my personal horticultural outreach to our community. The bug had bitten, no pun intended.

In subsequent years, I have worked at our plant clinics, at the Grays Harbor Home and Garden Show, at our Grays Harbor Fairgrounds Demonstration Garden and during our annual garden tour. These activities enable me to teach and to outreach to the Grays Harbor community.

In recent years, I have concentrated my work on upgrading our Demonstration Garden, and I am helping to publicize Master Gardener events through newspapers and radio interviews.

Most important to me, I have formed friendships with fellow Master Gardeners.

For more information or for an application, email 2018mgtrainees@gmail.com or call the Grays Harbor County Extension office at 360-482-2934. You may also fill out an application online at pnwmg.org.