Rockbridge Area
Master Gardeners Association
Rockbridge Area Master Gardener (RAMGA) Training
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Master Gardener Volunteers (MGV) are trained and volunteer to support Virginia Cooperative Extension offices by educating the public in many horticultural topics. The training emphasizes problem solving and research skills, plus volunteering opportunities to share/perform these skills within the Rockbridge and Bath County areas. The training and initial volunteering are to be completed within one calendar year. Training program components include:
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Reading from the online Master Gardener Handbook, following the course of study syllabus. (Access/log-in to the digital Handbook is included in the registration fee.)
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Studying the on-line modules which supplement the digital Handbook readings. (Each module is illustrated and contains links for further reference.) Also, as part of the registration fee, each trainee will receive both the digital Handbook and the modules on a flash drive.
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Completing open book, on-line, self-grading quizzes.
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Attending hands-on labs, as a class group with other future Master Gardeners. (The labs are scheduled on Saturdays, late afternoons, or evenings. These are interactive and allow for problem solving with fellow trainees.)
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Volunteering at approved RAMGA projects for a total of 50 volunteer hours.
View the 2024 training schedule (subject to change).
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Upon completion of the course work, the trainee becomes a Master Gardener Volunteer Intern. With the achievement of the 50 volunteer hours, the Intern becomes a certified Master Gardener Volunteer. Thereafter, the Master Gardener Volunteer is asked to volunteer a minimum of 20 hours per year on approved Master Gardener Volunteer projects, along with a minimum of 8 hours of continuing education. The 8 continuing education hours can be completed through Rockbridge Area Master Gardener programs, surrounding area plant symposiums, and online webinars.
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The Master Gardener Volunteer Program is a commitment. It is an opportunity to give back to the community, while having a lot of fun and comradery. The Master Gardener Volunteer Program is a combination of community sharing, continuing education, social interaction and personal satisfaction.