Cutler Botanic Garden
Master Gardener
The Master Gardener volunteer program is a nationwide Cooperative Extension
project that provides interested gardeners with horticultural training.
In return, these volunteers provide gardening education and information
to the community.
In Broome County, the Master Gardeners receive extensive training in
a two year course of study, including classes in plant science, entomology,
soil and fertilizers, ornamentals, and other horticultural subjects. The
volunteers answer questions on the Horticulture Response Line, a telephone
information service of Cornell University Cooperative Extension of Broome
County. A Speakers' Bureau is available to community groups and the Master
Gardeners participate in programs with 4-H and other area youth.
In addition, there is a unique role for Master Gardeners in Broome County.
Under the supervision of the staff Horticulture Educator, these volunteers
are the
caretakers of Cutler Botanic Garden. During winter months, the Master
Gardeners plan the garden. In spring and summer, they plant and care for
the garden. In 1999-2000, 30 Master Gardeners donated over 15,000 hours
of service. In 2001-2002, the program increased to 56 volunteers. The volunteers
in the Master Gardener Program have made a firm commitment to their training
and to the continuity of Cutler Botanic Garden. This year, the program is
up to 64 volunteers. The garden has become not only a learning experience
for the Master Gardeners, but it has also become an effective teaching tool
for them to use in reaching out to the community. Many community groups
and bus tour groups take advantage of the guided tours offered by the Master
Gardener Volunteers.
Master Gardener Application Packet
If you would like to obtain a Master Gardener Application packet, call
Patricia Kane, Administrative Assistant at (607) 772-8954, ext. 150 or e-mail
pak35@cornell.edu
You can also download the required forms from our
volunteer opportunities page.
