According to the guidelines for The Kentucky Extension Master Gardner Program, Extension Master Gardeners are trained volunteers that assist County Extension Agents with educational programming. This program is considered a volunteer management and outreach program within Cooperative Extension. 

The Master Gardener program had been implemented in years past by previous agents within Rowan County. Due to the vacancies within the ANR position for several years, the program had no longer been an option for those within the county unless they travelled to surrounding counties. 

Rowan County Extension partnered with Fleming and Mason county to provide a multi-county Master Gardener program to those who would be interested.  Overall the program had 11 participants between the three counties. These participants participated for 14 weeks and were trained in a variety of topics including soil health, cut flowers, and tree ID. These were taught predominantly by specialists and other agents who had knowledge for the particular class being taught. 

This program allowed participants to learn more about extension and how they aid the community, as well as offering volunteer hours and continued learning opportunities for participants. My hope is that this program will continue to grow and flourish through not only Rowan County, but other counties throughout the state.