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College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences

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What Is the Master Gardener Volunteer Program?

The Master Gardener Volunteer (MGV) Program provides intensive training in horticulture to interested individuals who then volunteer their time assisting with educational programs and outreach for Ohio residents through their local OSU Extension county office. You may have even seen our flyer around the community—check it out here. Feel free to print and share it with friends!

For more general information about the statewide MGV program, click here.


How to Become a Greene County Master Gardener Volunteer

Becoming an MGV is a rewarding way to deepen your knowledge of gardening and make a positive impact in your community. The Greene County MGV program seeks individuals who are eager to learn and committed to sharing their knowledge through volunteerism.

General Requirements:

  • Interest in gardening and community service

  • Completion of formal OSU Extension training (50+ hours)

  • Completion of 50 volunteer hours within one year of training

  • Willingness to continue learning and contributing to Extension projects


2025 Greene County MGV Training Class Information

We’re excited to announce updates to our 2025 training schedule. While we originally planned to begin in spring, the new fall timeline allows for a richer and more accessible program for all participants.

Tentative 2025 Training Schedule:

  • Application Deadline: August 15, 2025

  • In-Person Interviews: August 18–29, 2025

  • Mandatory Orientation: September 3, 2025, from 6:00–8:00 PM

  • Hybrid Classes (in-person & online): September–November 2025

Training topics include botany, soils, entomology, native plants, woody ornamentals, pollinators, and more. The program includes 50+ hours of classroom and field-based instruction, along with hands-on opportunities.


Application Process

  1. Review the Requirements:
    Read the MGV Position Description and Policy Statement to ensure this program is the right fit for you.

  2. Submit Your Application:
    Complete the online application and follow the application instructions carefully.

  3. Interview Process:
    Applicants will be selected based on their application, availability, and willingness to meet training and volunteer commitments. Selected individuals will be contacted to schedule an in-person interview.

  4. Orientation and Enrollment:
    Attendance at the orientation meeting is mandatory. During orientation, you’ll receive your class schedule, training manual, OSU paperwork, and information about the required background check. Full payment will be due at this time.

  5. Complete the Training:
    Participate in formal OSU Extension training (Sept–Nov 2025).

  6. Fulfill Volunteer Hours:
    Complete 50 hours of volunteer service within one year of completing the training.
     


    Questions or Issues with Applying?

    The Ohio State University
    Master Gardener Volunteer Program (Greene County)
    OSU Extension Greene County
    100 Fairground Rd., Xenia, OH 45385
    937-372-9971 Office
    greenecountymgv@osu.edu
    greene.osu.edu


    Marina Miquilini
    Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator
    937-736-7205 Direct / 937-372-9971 Office
    miquilini.1@osu.edu
    greene.osu.edu


     

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