Master Gardener classes at two area sites

Washington State University and University of Idaho Extensions are now accepting applications for the Master Gardener Program. Topics for the master gardener program include: Yard, garden, small fruits, tree fruits, landscaping and more.

Adults in the Palouse region interested in becoming a Master Gardener or taking Horticulture classes will have two opportunities starting in January. WSU/UI Master Gardener Training will be offered every Tuesday from Jan. 28 to April 14 from 1 to 4:30 p.m. at the Clarkston Campus of Walla Walla Community College.

Applications are due by Jan. 10, 2020. The cost is $130 per person + $75 fee for online training modules. This is offered through Asotin, Garfield and Whitman counties Extension in Washington and Nez Perce County Extension in Idaho.

The second opportunity, which is offered through Latah County Extension in Idaho, will be every Thursday from Jan. 16 to May 21 from 9 a.m. to noon at Latah County Fairgrounds in the Grange Building. Applications for this training are also due by Jan. 10, 2020. The cost is $150 per person.

To become a Master Gardener volunteer, participants are expected to complete the classroom and module instruction (if applicable) and complete 40 hours of volunteer service in support of the program. In addition, WSU Extension Master Gardeners will complete a background check and log their volunteer hours.

For applications and more information about these Master Gardener opportunities contact:

Whitman County: Janet Schmidt, extension director at schmidtj@wsu.edu or 509-397-6290, http://extension.wsu.edu/whitman.

Asotin & Garfield Counties: Mark Heitstuman, extension director, at heitstuman@wsu.edu or 509-243-2009, http://extension.wsu.edu/asotin.

Latah County: Ember Powell, office/program coordinator, at emberp@uidaho.edu or 208-883-2267, http://www.uidaho.edu/extension/county/latah.

Nez Perce County: Kathee Tifft, extension director, at ktifft@uidaho.edu or 208-799-3096, http://www.uidaho.edu/extension/county/nezperce.