The application window is now open for this year’s Summer Master Gardener training, which will be offered in 25 counties or extension regions in Iowa. The training will benefit Iowans wanting to deepen their understanding of horticulture, connect with their communities and participate in a hybrid classroom setting. 
Iowans wishing to complete Master Gardener training register with a local county extension office, participate in online learning modules, and attend at least 4 in-person training sessions organized by their local ISU Extension and Outreach office.
“Throughout the pandemic, many of our programs have been forced into virtual formats and participants have missed out on peer-to-peer interactions,” said Alicia Herzog, Master Gardener Statewide Coordinator with ISU Extension and Outreach. “We find immense value in the learning that happens when our participants interact with each other, their county Extension and Outreach staff, and experts in their local communities. We’re happy to be able to offer the best of both worlds with this hybrid format.”
Applicants have until March 25 to apply for the summer session. Training for the summer session begins May 16 and runs through July 22.
Local ISU Extension and Outreach staff can help with questions about joining Master Gardener training this year, including details of when and where in-person meetings will take place in their county or extension region. For more information, contact your local ISU Extension and Outreach Master Gardener Program Coordinator:
In O’Brien County, Kate Stewart, 712-957-5045 or email kstewart@iastate.edu
In Sioux County, Donna Mills, 712-737-4230 or email donnam@iastate.edu
In Lyon County, Carly Herum, 712-472-2576 or email cherum@iastate.edu
In Osceola County, Sandy Lamfers, 712-754-3648 or email slamfers@iastate.edu
To apply for the summer session, visit https://www.extension.iastate.edu/mastergardener/become-master-gardener.
Individuals interested, but unable to participate during the summer are encouraged to watch for the fall session. Applications for the fall session will open in June. 
Learn more about the program online at https://www.extension.iastate.edu/mastergardener/ or contact your local ISU Extension and Outreach county office at the phone number listed above.