OSKALOOSA — Suzette Striegel, Mahaska County Extension Horticulture and Education Program coordinator will be answering questions about the upcoming Master Gardener training on Thursday, August 3, beginning at 12 pm (Noon). Suzette has coordinated the local Master Gardener training since 2003.

The event is free and open to the public.  Registration is not required to attend, but appreciated.

Online registration began July 17 and continues until August 18 at https://extension.iastate.edu/mastergardener/become-master-gardener .  Payment of the fee $150 and a background screen are required prior to training.  Training is primarily online with trainees attending at least 4 in person session at the county level.  To encourage early enrollment and insure a minimum class size the Mahaska County Master Gardeners will award a $25 incentive to the first 6 enrollees to pay the training fee. 

Mahaska County Master Gardeners are celebrating their twentieth year.  The local program organized after the county held their first training.  The educational volunteer program, sponsored by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, provides current, research based, home horticulture information and education to the citizens of Iowa through programs and projects.  Master Gardeners receive horticulture training, and volunteer to promote a mission of education and service.  The program is open to anyone 14 or older with an interest in gardening and a willingness to use their knowledge, experience and enthusiasm to make a positive impact on their local community.

More information about this and other horticulture events can be found at the Mahaska County Extension Office; 212 North I Street; Oskaloosa Phone 641-673-5841; and www.extension.iastate.edu/mahaska/yardgarden.htm.