Since 1979, North Carolina Extension Master Gardener℠ Volunteers (EMGVs) have been leaders in this internationally acclaimed program, guiding homeowners in making environmentally sound decisions in their landscapes. Trained by NC State faculty and staff, EMGVs provide research-based information about gardening and environmental stewardship to individuals and communities across the state. EMGVs engage the community through education and outreach on a wide variety of subjects and through a broad spectrum of projects, all designed to maximize their impact.
The 2026 Master Gardener Training for Alamance County is already underway this year. There is no current projected date for the next volunteer training since we have paused recruitment of volunteers at this time. Check back here for details or add your name to the list here to be updated when the next class is announced.
Even though we are not currently accepting new volunteers, you may review the previous recruitment information below to get an idea of what the training process and volunteer commitment looks like. This information is subject to change when new volunteer training resumes in the future.
Steps to Becoming an Extension Master Gardener™ Volunteer
- Information Sessions:
These are held at the Extension Office and via Zoom in the months leading to class start. You must attend one information session to be able to apply for the Master Gardener class.
- Submit your application
Details about where and when to find and submit applications will be posted in late 2027.
3. Pay Program Fees
Upon acceptance to the Extension Master Gardener℠ volunteer Program you will will be required to pay the relevant program fees by the first day of class. The fee schedule is posted below for your viewing.
Fee Schedule 2026:
Alamance Gardener Fee: $20 (covers training materials)
State EMG Fee: $50 (Required for every new trainee by the state program)
County Fee: $30 (Covers training materials, name tag, apron, etc.)
Total fees: $100
4. Complete Core EMG Training
Classes will be held in-person on a weekly basis and will focus on skills you will need as a volunteer and how to use your knowledge to teach others. Classes meet on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at our office at 209 N. Graham-Hopedale Rd Burlington, NC 27217. We will be using the Extension Gardener Handbook, Second Edition as the required textbook for the course. The textbook can be accessed for free online or a hardback copy can be purchased for an additional $55 (ask how to order).
5. Volunteer!
Volunteers will complete a 40-hour internship within one year of completing their training. The variety of volunteer opportunities available in horticulture education is endless! Master Gardeners will work with their local Extension Agent to determine which opportunities will make the most of their time, interests, and talents to meet the needs of Cooperative Extension’s Educational Programs. Volunteer opportunities include:
- Diagnosing plant, insect, and disease problems
- Staffing plant clinics and educational exhibits
- Creating and maintaining demonstration gardens
- Giving lectures on gardening
- Visiting local schools to develop gardens and teach gardening skills to youth
6. Certify Annually and Continue your Education
The minimum requirements for remaining an EMG in Alamance are completing a minimum of 40 hours of volunteer service in Alamance County each year, plus 10 hours of continuing education each year.
Contact Us!
To place your name on a list of those interested in becoming an Extension Master Gardener please contact Rhiannon Goodwin via email or phone at 336.790.0456.
