Our Mission

The mission of the University of Missouri Extension Master Gardener volunteer program is to provide horticultural information and training to the gardening public based on proven research specific to the local climate, soil and plants.  Master Gardeners of the Ozarks mission is to help others learn to grow.  Master Gardeners involve people in improving the quality of life and enhancing the economy and environment through horticultural education.

Master Gardener trainees volunteer at least 30 hours of educational service to their communities the first year and 20 hours every year thereafter.  They may work individually or in groups on a variety of projects.  Many times,  We answer questions from area residents about home horticulture and help them find environmentally sound solutions to gardening and landscape problems.  Extension Specialist are available to help and advise as needed.

We all have a common interest in gardening but our interests and knowledge increase when we become Master Gardeners.  As a Master Gardener,  we are afforded many of the resources of the University of Missouri and, in turn,  we become a resource of the University through the Extension Service.  Our commitment to the program serves our community in a variety of ways.  Certain policies and guidelines have been established on a statewide basis to provide uniformity and credibility to the program.

What we do…

Our official name is “Master Gardeners of the Ozarks“.  Its members live, work and play in several counties;  Stone,  Taney,  Barry, and Christian.  Its members have successfully completed beginning training classes and are actively pursuing the volunteer working hours required each year to maintain the designation of Master Gardener.  Some Members have completed advanced training classes.

The Master Gardeners pay back their education by volunteering in their community. The volunteer aspect of the program is the heart of the community outreach effort. As representatives of University of Missouri Extension, volunteers may engage in a variety of interesting education activities that benefit the community as well as individuals and their families. Master Gardeners develop their gardening and community potential as their efforts help others in the community.