The Kentucky Extension Master Gardener program is a volunteer organization dedicated to teaching and training people about horticulture related topics. This program is a part of the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service and assists county extension agents in providing education and outreach in the community. Master Gardeners are required to undergo training and complete 40 hours of volunteer service in their first year before becoming certified. After the first year, Master Gardeners are required to complete 20 hours of service and 10 continuing education credit hours annually in order to continue their certification.

In 2019, the Barren River Area Extension Master Gardener Association reported that 12 new volunteers completed their certification. The 10 Extension Master Gardeners returning from previous years. Together the 22 members contributed 734 service hours and 171 continuing education hours this year. According to Independent Sector, the 2019 dollar value of volunteer time was $25.43 per hour. Based on this rate, the volunteer service of the Barren River Area Extension Master Gardener Association is equal to $23,014.15 in value. This is a great contribution to the community. The value of their projects and shared knowledge is too great to put a value on. 100% of the Master Gardener volunteers believe the Master Gardener program greatly improves the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service’s connection to the local community.