May 15, 2023

Dear Texas Master Gardener Training Applicant,

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The Texas Master Gardener program is an educational volunteer program conducted by the Texas AgriLife Extension Service of the Texas A&M University System.  Instructors are highly trained and provide proven, researched based programs to the citizens of Texas.

In the Hays County Master Gardener Association (HCMGA), a trainee is required to complete a minimum of fifty hours of training.  The program offers instruction in a variety of gardening and horticultural topics and features expert speakers from the horticulture and gardening fields.   If accepted as a trainee, you will attend classes, perform approved volunteer work, and have opportunities for hands-on activities in HCMGA/AgriLife Demonstration Gardens. 

The training program will be a hybrid model this Fall, alternating in-person and Zoom classes, running from September 8-November 17.  The in-person classes will be held on Fridays and Zoom classes will be held on Tuesdays and Fridays. Please see the attached schedule and addendum for details. 

The tuition for the training class is $250, and payment must be received no later than August 25 (cash, check, or card using Square with a service fee of $7.80).  This is a nonrefundable payment.  The cost includes the Master Gardener Handbook, soil analysis from Texas A&M University, background check, badge fees, as well as other training materials and associated costs.  Class enrollment is limited.  Please return your signed application no later than August 18.  To become a “Certified Master Gardener,” you must attend all classes and complete fifty (50) hours of approved volunteer service, including 10 hours at information tables.  Please see the Addendum for info on arranging limited make-ups.

As a Master Gardener, you will play an important role in the beautification of Hays County, volunteering in approved projects which improve Hays County Parks with Demonstration Gardens and selected Hays County Community Gardens.  You will also serve as an educator of good gardening practices to our communities. We have fun and learn through lectures, tours, hands on activities, and sharing ideas.  We hope you will join us!

Visit our website (hayscountymastergardeners.org), find us on Facebook, or call the County Extension Office at (512) 393-2120 for more information.

Sincerely,

Rachael Peterson

President, Hays County Master Gardener Association

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