[StBernard] Gardeners in New Orleans area are invited to become Louisiana Master Gardeners

[Westley Annis]

Gardeners in New Orleans area are invited to become Louisiana Master
Gardeners

Residents of Plaquemines, St. Bernard, Jefferson and Orleans parishes who
have an interest in becoming a certified Louisiana Master Gardener volunteer
are invited to participate in the 2013 LMG training program July 30 through
Sept.  24. The LMG  program is sponsored by the LSU AgCenter.

The Louisiana Master Gardener (LMG) program is a service and educational
activity designed to recruit and train volunteers to help meet the needs of
home gardeners while providing an enjoyable and worthwhile experience for
volunteers. The volunteer aspect of the Master Gardener program allows
individuals to dedicate their time and talents to help educate the public on
best management practices in consumer horticulture and environmental
stewardship. Master Gardener volunteers play an important role in reaching
the consumer horticulture audience and learn quickly that being a Master
Gardener volunteer provides a fun, interesting and rewarding experience.

The 2013 LMG certification training program will involve two class sessions
per week conducted each Tuesday and Thursday from 9a.m. to noon at the New
Orleans Botanical Gardens Study Center in City Park.

More than 16 areas of horticulture will be covered with instruction provided
by PhD specialists and parish County Agents of the LSU AgCenter. Additional
instruction will be provided by certified horticulturalists, Master
Gardeners, and other industry professionals. Participants are not required
to have an extensive horticulture background or knowledge as the course work
is tailored for beginners and experienced gardeners.

There is a $180 program fee to cover costs for the training manual, name
badge, certificate, and additional supporting materials. To qualify for
selection, a Louisiana Master Gardener application only (no registration fee
at this time) must be received at the Jefferson Parish Extension office by
June 12. 

To request an application and information for the 2013 LMG certification
training program call the Jefferson Parish Extension office of the LSU
AgCenter at 504-736-6519.