MSU Extension Oakland County

Oakland County MSU Extension Master Gardener®

Join the MSU Extension Master Gardener® Volunteer Program in Oakland County and become part of a statewide effort to spread science-based gardening knowledge and support healthy communities.

🌱 What is the Master Gardener Program?

The MSU Extension Master Gardener Program is a research‑based horticulture education and volunteer training initiative. Trained volunteers dedicate their time to community service—teaching environmentally friendly gardening practices, supporting food-security projects, and enhancing local landscapes.

Why Participate?

As an Extension Master Gardener Volunteer, you will:

• Help Michigan gardeners access science-backed gardening advice
• Educate the public about smart gardening practices
• Improve gardens at schools, senior centers, and community food systems
• Gain access to MSU horticulture classes, events, and statewide expert networks

How to Become a Volunteer

1. Complete Foundations of Gardening (FOG) – a 10-week, fully online course that covers key principles of gardening. Learn more here!
2. Apply to the EMG Program – after earning your FOG certificate, submit an application and complete the Volunteer Screening Process. Acceptance into the program is required to proceed.
3. Attend a Local MSU Extension Master Gardener Onboarding – Dates vary by location, and in-person participation is required. In Oakland county the EMG Onboarding dates are one full day.
4. Complete Volunteer Service Requirements – Engage in 40 hours of volunteer service by December of the year after you complete the onboarding course. Service must be performed on an MSU Extension Master Gardener-approved project.

Certification is awarded after education and service requirements are met. To stay active, volunteers complete 20 hours of service and 10 hours of continuing education annually . Advanced certification is also available through additional training and service hours .

About Foundations of Gardening (FOG)

FOG is open to anyone interested in gardening—emerald-certified volunteers or casual enthusiasts.

• Delivered entirely online with 10 weekly self-paced modules and live virtual lectures led by MSU experts 
• Certificate earned with at least 80% on assessments
• Serves as the prerequisite for Extension Master Gardener volunteer eligibility (certificate remains valid for three years)
• Scholarships are available to help with course fees 

How to Get Started

1. Review the Foundations of Gardening course page and upcoming sessions.
2. Register for FOG (two offerings per year: Feb–Apr and Sep–Nov) 
3. Upon obtaining your certificate, follow instructions to apply for local onboarding and the Master Gardener Volunteer Program.