The Extension Master Gardener℠ Volunteer (EMGV) program is a statewide program operating in 83 of Extensions 101 centers.  EMGV provides science-based horticultural knowledge that helps North Carolinians cultivate healthy plants, landscapes, ecosystems and communities.  The program includes more than 3,800 volunteers statewide.

The program is designed to build your knowledge in the areas of landscapes, lawns, fruits and vegetables and provide opportunities to share your knowledge with others. No previous formal training is necessary - just a real desire to learn and share!

The horticulture program for Swain and Jackson Counties will be offering the NC Extension Master Gardener Volunteer (educator) training program this fall.  The program will be accepting student applications beginning  September 2025, with the class starting in  October.

If selected for the program, you will enter into the student phase by paying the required education fees and completing 40 hrs of student coursework under the guidance and direction of Extension Agents. Successful coursework attendance and passing the final exam enters candidates into the 40 hours of the Internship phase where interns will work through a minimum of 3 volunteer education outreach projects.

To learn more about the program and help us learn more about you, please complete this brief interest survey: Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Interest Questions