The Montana Master Gardener Program serves as an education and volunteer service organization.  The program’s purpose is to provide technical assistance and unbiased, research-based information in consumer horticulture to people in all Montana communities through qualified volunteers.  Through the Master Gardener program we empower individuals with sound horticultural practices that minimize negative impacts on the environment.  The program is based on a philosophy of shared ownership.  MSU extension agents, staff, and volunteers share vision, ideas, and responsibilities for the program. 

Core Master Gardener

To become a Core Master Gardener in Montana, participants are required to complete an 8-10 week course with 16+ hours of in-class training. After the course, one must pass an open book exam with a score of 80% or better and complete 20 volunteer hours related to educational horticulture outreach.

Advanced Master Gardener Program

Individuals who have been active master gardener volunteers for at least two full years and have completed the core master gardener class and volunteer requirements will be eligible for the Advanced Master Gardener program. The advanced master gardener program's goal is to provide in-depth instruction on specific subjects beyond the core master gardener training. This training will allow advanced master gardeners to strengthen their knowledge on research based horticultural practices. Acceptance into the program will be at the discretion of the local county agent and coordinator.

To become an Advanced Master Gardener, individuals must receive 20 hours of continuing education over a two-year period. They will also be required to volunteer for 20 hours over that period. These volunteer hours will be related to county needs as directed by the county agent.  To maintain Advanced Master Gardener status, one will need to attain 10 CEU’s a year and 20 volunteer hours.

The Advanced Garden Master classes will be offered throughout the state. It will no longer be a requirement to attend a workshop in Bozeman.  Continuing Education Credits will be available through multiple channels.