NDSU is scheduled to kickoff the 2012 Master Gardener Program Aug. 17. The classes will originate from NDSU and be broadcast to 15 sites across the state through the Interactive Video Network system.
The classes will start Friday, Aug. 17, and finish Friday, Oct. 5. Classes will run from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (Central time) for eight weeks. The locations to view the program are Ashley, Bismarck, Bowman, Cando, Cooperstown, Devils Lake, Dickinson, Fargo, Grand Forks, Jamestown, Minot, Napoleon, Wahpeton, Watford City and Williston Research Extension Center.
“Participants will be well schooled in the basics of plant and soil science, perennial and annual flowers, plant pathology, entomology and weed control,” says Ron Smith, NDSU Extension Service horticulturist. “Also, participants will receive information on woody and herbaceous plants, aspects of fruit and vegetable production, square foot gardening and landscape design, plus tree selection and care.”
The cost of the program is $100 for volunteers and $200 for non-volunteers. Once the classwork is finished, volunteers need to complete 48 hours of approved work through their county NDSU Extension Service agent. Once requirements are fulfilled, they are eligible to become certified master gardeners.
For more information about the location of the Interactive Video Network meeting place in your area or to register, contact your local NDSU Extension Service office or visit www.ag.ndsu.edu/mg. The registration deadline is Wednesday, Aug. 1.
NDSU is recognized as one of the nation's top 108 public and private universities by the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education.