UC Master Gardener Program of Contra Costa County

Become a UC Master Gardener Volunteer in Contra Costa County

 

The 2019 New Volunteer Training Class looking for evidence of pests on a leaf specimen.
New Volunteer Training Class looking for evidence of pests on a leaf specimen.

 

Interested in Becoming a UC Master Gardener Volunteer?

Read the information below. The recruiting process for the Class of 2026-27 has already begun and is closed to new signups. If you're interested in applying for the next class, scroll down and click the "Notify Me" button to fill out a survey to be notified when the recruiting for the 2027-28 class begins in May of 2027.

 

 

Volunteers for the UC Master Gardener Program of Contra Costa County are:

  • Residents of Contra Costa County who have been trained to educate the general public on science-based sustainable horticulture practices.
  • Part of the University of California Cooperative Extension, functioning as a link between the University and the residents of Contra Costa County.

  • Committed to extending best practices on home horticulture, pest management, and sustainable landscaping throughout the county.

     

Typically, 25-35 people are selected 

to train as new UC Master Gardener Program volunteers. Qualified candidates are:

  • Interested in learning University of California research-based horticultural practices in to bring that knowledge to their community.
  • Committed to creating a sustainable environment throughout the county.
  • Passionate about volunteering with our organization.

 

Applicants do not have to be gardening experts 

to become UC Master Gardener Program volunteers.  Successful applicants are trained in University of California best practices.

  • Training begins in the fall and continues for 14 weeks of sessions. Weekly reading and home study assignments are also required.
  • Classes are taught by University of California instructors as well as outside experts.
  • Topics include Soils, Botany, Irrigation, Edible Gardening, Landscape Trees, Plant Diseases, and Integrated Pest Management and much more.

 

After training

The new UC Master Gardeners are ready to volunteer on our many projects:

  • Help Desk
  • Ask A Master Gardener tables
  • Growing Gardeners
  • School Gardens
  • Demonstration gardens in East, West, and Central County
  • Speakers Bureau
  • Community Gardens
  • Communications
  • Plant Sales
  • Jardineros

 

Interested in applying?

Your first step is to attend an Information Session. The next opportunity is in May of 2027. Click the button below to be notified when registration opens for the Class of 2028 Information Sessions.

NOTIFY ME!

 

Need to contact us?

If you have questions, please feel free to email us at contracostamg@ucanr.edu.