Maine Master Gardener Volunteers

Orono, Maine

Master Gardener Program

About

Maine Master Gardener Volunteers, operating under the University of Maine Cooperative Extension, fosters sustainable gardening practices throughout Maine by training and mentoring dedicated gardeners in horticulture and community service. The program provides participants with 40+ hours of in-depth, research-based training from UMaine Extension educators and industry experts, equipping them with the knowledge to create positive environmental change in their communities. In 2021 alone, nearly 1,000 Master Gardener Volunteers contributed over 28,830 hours to educational initiatives and food security projects, including native pollinator garden installations, school garden development, produce donation programs, and adaptive gardening projects that serve diverse community members. By combining horticultural expertise with community engagement, Maine Master Gardeners actively work to enhance local ecosystems, support food systems, and make gardening accessible to all.

Programs

Master Gardener Volunteer training program (40+ hours)
Master Gardener Volunteer internship (40 hours)
Garden Angel program
Native pollinator garden design and installation
School garden projects
Community composting workshops
Produce donation programs (Maine Harvest for Hunger)
Educational workshops and classes

Focus Areas

HorticultureCold Climate GardeningCommunity Service