The Illinois Master Gardener program, started in Illinois in 1975, is an educational, volunteer program offered by University of Illinois Extension. Master Gardeners are a group of volunteers trained by University of Illinois Extension educators to provide a network of gardening programs and horticultural activities to educate the public and enhance life in their communities. The mission of the Illinois Master Gardener program is : "Helping Others Learn to Grow".

Bureau County individuals who have an interest in learning more about gardening and would like to share their experience with their local communities are invited to join our Bureau County Master Gardener Program.

Master Gardeners are utilized to help answer questions from local residents and participate in several community service projects scheduled throughout the year. Individuals who complete this training are asked to donate 66 hours of community service to fulfill the obligations of the Master Gardener Program. Bureau County Master Gardeners also contribute articles for the multi-county, bi-monthly Master Gardener newsletter, "From the Garden".

The objectives of the Master Gardener program are:

1. To expand the capacity of University of Illinois Extension to distribute horticultural information to individuals and groups in local communities.

2. To develop and enhance community programs related to horticulture. These programs are educational in nature and may involve environmental improvements, horticultural therapy objects, community and school gardening projects, or other programs determined by local need.

For more information on the Master Gardener program, please contact Sherry at 815-875-2878.