Extension Master Gardener Volunteers

in Douglas-Sarpy Counties

Nebraska Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program

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Roots & Shoots Newsletter Login Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Reporting Login

LEARN - CONNECT - SHARE

Who We Are

We are trained volunteers who serve our community.

  • We are lifelong adult learners interested in the natural world.

  • We are teachers and share research-based gardening practices.

  • We promote environmental awareness.

  • We are ambassadors for University of Nebraska-Lincoln and extend its outreach.

  • We improve the efficiency of Nebraska Extension.

Woman teaching children about plants in a flower garden.

What We Do

We share practical information about sustainable horticulture.

  • Answer questions on the Horticulture Helpline 5 days a week.

  • Host "Ask the Master Gardener" tables at community events.

  • Design and maintain 19 teaching garden demonstration sites.

  • Speak to local civic groups about gardening.

  • Grow and donate food to area pantries.

Teaching Gardens
Woman talking on a phone.
NE-EMGV's are in
55 counties
of 93 in Nebraska
NE-EMGV's volunteered
30,500 hours
in 2023
NE-EMGV's connected to
258,000 people
across Nebraska in 2023

How to Join Us

  1. Step 1

    Attend an Information Meeting

    Nov. 14, 2025, 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the Extension Office, 8015 West Center Road, Omaha, NE

    Nov. 15, 2025, 9:30-10:30 a.m. at Papillion Library (Sump Memorial), 222 N Jefferson Street, Papillion, NE

    Download the 2025 Brochure

  2. Step 2

    Apply & Interview

    Applications are only made available at the Information Meetings. Applicants also attend a small group interview so we can get to know them better.

  3. Step 3

    Learn

    Attend 48 hours of training in February & March, including 4 mandatory in-person labs, and pass an open-book learning exercise.

  4. Step 4

    Volunteer

    Contribute 40+ volunteer hours at an assigned project by October to complete your certification. 

FAQs

What if I can't make the information meeting?

These meetings are designed to inform the public about the qualifications necessary to be accepted into the internship program. Intern applicants must attend one Information Meeting. Applications are only made available at the Information Meeting.

How many Interns do you accept?

To maintain our quality programming and support, our Intern class is capped at 35 people. Applicants can reapply the following year, or we offer opportunities by which individuals can get the education but not volunteer.

How much does it cost?

Intern cost : $275

Includes: online handbook, training, name badge, t-shirt, & monthly e-newsletter

Financial assistance is available and part of the Intern application.

Once certified, there is only a $25 annual renewal fee.

What do Interns learn?

Class topics may vary slightly, but all classes will include information on integrated pest management, weeds, insects, diseases, plant selection (turf, woody, and herbaceous plants), landscape management, soils, fertility, and morphology. The content level is focused on the home gardener, but some participants are employed in the green industry. 

How are the classes held?

Classes are held each Friday in February and March, with one additional lab on a Friday in June. Interns are required to attend four 3-hour labs in person. Lectures are in-person, streamed live, or viewed asynchronously. See below for a sample schedule.

How do I maintain my certification?

After certification, volunteers pay an annual $25 renewal fee, complete 15 continuing education units, and always volunteer 40+ hours.

Who can I contact for more information?

Scott Evans, scott.evans@unl.edu, Horticulture Programs Coordinator