FAQ Prepared by Leslie Alexander

Access the policy and annual letter requesting certification HERE.

Click Here to access an FAQ; it will be updated as more Q and As are received. For the October 4 Update, Click Here.

What is the "annual certification" for Master Gardeners?

This policy of the UConn Master Gardener Program requires certified MGs to complete 20 hours of annual outreach, attend a class, and report activities in order to remain "active." Specifically, the annual requirements are:
***Complete 10 hours of outreach in one of the Extension Offices, Bartlett Arboretum, or the Home and Garden Center in Storrs
***Complete 10 hours of community outreach in a MG approved project (or an additional 10 hours in an Extension Office)
***Return volunteer time reports monthly
***Attend a 3 hour "Hot Topics" class (free of charge)
***Return a signed Active Certification Agreement to your Program Coordinator by Sept 30 each year

What is the timing for this new policy?

UConn designed the policy to ensure that MGs stay current on the latest horticultural information and to protect MGs working on approved projects (only active certified MGs will be covered by UConn's liability insurance when volunteering in the offices, at Bartlett, or on approved projects).

What happens if I don't meet these requirements?

If an MG doesn't meet the requirements in one year but does in the next, and wants to be reinstated, then the MG completes the requirements (20 hours of Outreach; Hot Topics; and reporting) and pays a $10 fee.

If an MG lapses for 2 or 3 years, then a total of 40 hours of outreach must be completed (20 in the Office, 20 in an approved project or in the Office); a Hot Topics Class must be attended and a fee of $25 paid.

A lapse greater than 3 years will be handled on a case-by-case basis.

Questions?????