How to Become an NC State Extension

Master Gardener℠ Volunteer in Chatham County 

1)  Attend one of four Information Sessions, scheduled for:

• 2/24/2025 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.  IN-PERSON     REGISTER
• 2/26/2025  6:00  –  7:30 p.m.   IN-PERSON     REGISTER
• 3/18/2025 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.  ONLINE           REGISTER
• 4/3/2025      9:00 – 10:30 a.m. IN-PERSON     REGISTER

2) Attend at least six (6) Extension Gardener classes

The Extension Gardener series of webinars and workshops are open to the public (anyone can attend), and also serve as a foundation for understanding research-based home gardening and horticultural practices for prospective Master Gardener Volunteers℠. Prospective Master Gardener Trainees need to attend six workshops or webinars by March 2026. Attending as many of these classes as possible will further enhance your training experience.

Class Schedule

Click on the name of the class for more information and how to register (PENDING).

3) Submit your application by June 20th, 2025

• EMG Application 2025 (Chatham)
  • Google Doc (to edit: File > Make a copy or FIle > Dowload
  • MIcrosoft Word .docx

Applicants will be notified of acceptance into the program on July 11, 2025. 

4) Submit the application fee by July 28th, 2025

The total application fee is $150. 

• $50 is the fee to  support the NC State EMG program
• $100 covers the expenses of the materials for the Volunteer Core Training workshops (see below)
• Cash (exactchange) or check (payable to ‘Chatham County’) only

5) Complete Extension Master Gardener Core Training

Whereas the Extension Gardener webinar and workshop series focus on how to grow plants and other basic gardening skills, the Extension Master Gardener Core Training program provides in-depth training on learning and practicing the research and diagnostic skills required to be a Master Gardener Volunteer. All courses are taught by Matt Jones and EMG Volunteers of Chatham County (unless otherwise lsited).

As a representative of NC State Extension, Master Gardener Volunteers disseminate scientific, research-based information backed by NC State University, NC A&T State University, and other land-grant university extension services from across the country.

Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Core Training Schedule 

6) Volunteer with N.C. Cooperative Extension, Chatham County Center

Volunteers will complete a 50-hour internship within one year of completing their training (Nov. 20, 2026). Volunteers are also required to complete an internship project. Interns may choose from projects from EMG program teams, or can propsose their own project approved by the Core Training team.

Learn More:

• Extension Master Gardener℠ Program in Chatham County
• NC Extension Master Gardener℠ Volunteer Program (statewide)
• NC Extension Master Gardener℠ Volunteer Program Guidelines

NC State University and N.C. A&T State University commit themselves to positive action to secure equal opportunity and prohibit discrimination and harassment regardless of age, color, disability, family and marital status, genetic information, national origin, political beliefs, race, religion, sexual identity (including pregnancy), and veteran status. NC State, N.C. A&T, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments cooperating.