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Frequently Asked Questions - Rock Prairie Master Gardener Assoc.Volunteer hours: How do I get them? Why? The Rock Prairie MG Assoc. offers many projects, committees and activities that will provide you the hours needed to maintain active status. The purpose of the University of Wisconsin Extension Master Gardener Program is to provide horticultural information specific to local climates, soils and plants, and training to the gardening public, based on University of Wisconsin and other research institutions.

Continuing Education hours: How do I get them and also, why? Certification as a Master Gardener is limited to one year from the time of granting but is renewable by remaining active as a Master Gardener volunteer. You must remain current in annual educational updates in order to provide the public the latest information.

Can I do classes for Continuing Education at other places than Extension? You certainly can. Make sure that it provides true gardening information and will add to your bank of knowledge. If in doubt, contact your horticulture educator or a member of the executive committee. Approved continuing education opportunities will be sent to you via the list serve and monthly newsletter.

Is my travel time counted with my hours? Yes, if it is for volunteering but not for continuing education. For trips, tours and potlucks only the pure education or volunteer time is counted not meals and socializing.

Do I need to report my hours on a regular basis? Yes. You are required to report your hours annually. The deadline for reporting all of your volunteer work and continuing education will be August 31st.

After I complete my hours (volunteer and continuing ed) requirements, should I still turn in hours? Yes, the total number of hours is important on reports to local and state financial supporters and administration.

Can I carry over extra hours from one year to the next? No. The association’s year runs from September 1 to August 31 of the following year. Hours may not be carried from year to year.

May interns attend continuing education classes/trips? Should those hours be reported? Absolutely, interns are welcome and encouraged to take advantage of all continuing education classes and field trips. Time should be turned in as continuing education on your report of hours. Interns should report continuing education above and beyond General training.

What if my life has changed and I can’t make my assignment? If for any reason you can not fulfill a requirement for the MG program, please contact your horticulture educator or executive committee member to discuss. Flexibility is possible.

Frequently Asked Questions - Rock Prairie Master Gardener Assoc.I’ve done this assignment for a few years, any problem switching to something new? No problem! In fact, it will widen your knowledge and experience if you do change. You will meet new people, too! Contact your horticulture educator or executive committee member for help in finding new volunteer opportunities.

Ok, the summer is over and I still don’t have enough hours. What do I do? There are several committees that meet and are most active during the fall and winter. Choose one or two of these and look for continuing ed classes and opportunities, as well during this time. Pace yourself and as with a paying position, seek to attain a certain number of hours per week/month.

Who should I call if I have questions or problems making my hours? Call your horticulture educator or executive committee member. None bite and can be very helpful.

Should I wear my name badge? Yes! Wearing the official University of Wisconsin Extension name badge identifies you as a representative while conducting and serving in programs as a Master Gardener. When you are with other Master Gardeners, it provides easy identification and facilitates getting to know one another. At the beginning of every calendar year, dated stickers for your name tags are available from your horticulture educator. These stickers can be placed on your name tag to show you are in good standing within the association (similar to putting your yearly tag on your license plate).

I’M IN OVER MY HEAD!
I DON’T KNOW WHAT I’M DOING!
I DON’T THINK I CAN DO THIS!
I CAN’T FIND MY REPORTING FORMS!
… and similar issues.
Do not hesitate to call any member of the executive committee or your horticulture educator. All these individuals are here to help make your Master Gardener Volunteer experience a positive one. If problems arise that may interfere with your MGV training or participation, please let us know so we can do our best to accommodate your needs, if possible.


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Mike_Maddox
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