The LSU AgCenter is a statewide campus of the LSU System and provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. Thank you for your interest in the Louisiana Master Gardener Program.
The Louisiana Master Gardener program was started in Baton Rouge in 1994 as a means of extending the educational outreach of the LSU AgCenter’s Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service. The objectives of the Louisiana Master Gardener Program are to: 1) develop a Louisiana Master Gardener volunteer network under the direction of the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service, 2) expand the capacity of the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service to distribute horticultural information to individuals and groups in the community, 3) develop and enhance community programs related to horticulture based on community needs, 4) enhance 4-H Youth Development programs by complementing co-curricular horticultural programs. Therefore, graduates of the Master Gardener Program are required to participate in community horticultural activities at the direction and approval of the Louisiana AgCenter Cooperative Extension Service personnel in an ongoing basis.
Acceptance into the Louisiana Master Gardener Program is based on your qualifications and the current volunteer needs of the LSU AgCenter. If you are accepted into the program, you will be required to pay a $250.00 course fee to cover the cost of training materials and lab supplies. This fee is non-refundable once training manuals have been ordered. DO NOT SEND PAYMENT WITH THIS APPLICATION! Fees will be due once you are accepted into the program. Trainees are encouraged to attend all training sessions and field trips; however, one lab absence is allowed and field trips are optional. There will be weekly short quizzes and a comprehensive final exam. You must attain an average score of 70% or better on the tests, final exam, and class oral presentation to graduate the course. Some of the topics to be covered during training include:
Volunteers are expected to uphold high standards that ensure the safety and well-being of the LSU AgCenter, its staff, volunteers, and clients. Volunteers will uphold all individuals’ rights to dignity, self-development, and self-direction. Volunteers will accept supervision and support from Extension professionals while involved in the program. Volunteers will accept the responsibility to positively represent the LSU AgCenter during the tenure and duration of their volunteer engagement. Volunteers will conduct themselves in a courteous, caring, responsible manner with focus on respect, trustworthiness, fairness, and good citizenship. Volunteers are expected to respect, adhere to, and enforce the rules, policies, and guidelines set forth by the LSU AgCenter and any programs that they are specifically assigned to. Volunteers should not commit unlawful acts and are expected to comply with equal opportunity and nondiscrimination laws. Volunteers will operate machinery, vehicles, and other equipment, when applicable, in a responsible and safe manner. Volunteers are charged with performing their duties in a responsible and timely manner.
Upon graduation, I agree to give 40 hours of volunteer service to the LSU AgCenter with a minimum of 10 of those hours spent assisting with target areas designated for this year’s Master Gardener graduates. I also agree to work a minimum of 6 hours at the New Orleans Spring Garden Show or the New Orleans Fall Fest Show. New graduates will have until December 31, 2025 to complete the 40 hours of volunteer service. I agree to give 20 hours of volunteer service each year thereafter in order to maintain my Louisiana Master Gardener certification.
The title “Louisiana Master Gardener” is not to be used for any commercial purposes, and your name badge can only be worn at official LSU AgCenter approved programs.
All students are also required to sign a Photo Release Form and will have a Background Check performed.
By clicking the CONSENT button below, I agree that I have read, understand, and will abide by the above guidelines and Volunteer Code of Conduct. I certify that the information set forth in my application is true and accurate, and I authorize the LSU AgCenter to verify the information. Failure to fulfill the annual volunteer hour commitments will result in removal from the Louisiana Master Gardener Program.