About the Master Gardeners of Bergen County
We're dedicated volunteers who've completed the Rutgers Master Gardener volunteer training program. We're versed in the basics of horticulture to assist Rutgers Cooperative Extension (RCE) in its mission to deliver research-based home horticulture programs, services, and information to the public.
Mission statement
- To expand the research and educational capacity of Rutgers Cooperative Extension while providing research-based information through a network of trained Master Gardener volunteers.
- To develop and enhance community programs related to horticulture, environmental improvement, horticultural therapy projects, community and school gardening projects, and other programs as determined by local need.
- To design and present educational programs to the public that address critical issues such as integrated pest management, water quality protection, yard waste management and composting, reduction of exotic invasive species, and the increased use of native plants.
What we do
We provide quality service to the public at our association's volunteer sites, through our Helpline, and at ad hoc events and programs, such as fairs and festivals. We volunteer in these ways:
- RCE Helpline: Answer your questions about horticulture and pest control over the phone. The Helpline is available from 10 am-noon, Mondays-Thursdays from April-October at 201-336-6783 or 201-336-6784.
- Community outreach: Participate in educational outreach at Rutgers Master Gardener booths and tables during community events; present speakers at our monthly meetings (September-November and January-May), which are open to the public.
- Speakers Bureau: Make available speakers on a variety of gardening-related topics to garden clubs, libraries, and other community groups at no cost.
- Horticultural therapy projects: Assist hort therapy programs at the Bergen New Bridge Medical Center and other sites, as needed.
- Newsletter: Write articles and take photos of MG events for our monthly newsletter for members.
History
In the early 1970s, when interest in home gardening grew rapidly, county extension offices were overwhelmed with requests for horticultural information. In Washington State, Dr. David Gibby proposed training gardeners to respond to the demand.
Volunteers would receive extensive horticultural training in return for helping the Cooperative Extension provide the public with information.
In Bergen County, the Master Gardener Program began in 1984 by Rutgers Cooperative Extension Agricultural Agent Ralph Pearson. His goal was to increase horticultural skills, environmental awareness, and stewardship using research-based education. Sixteen of New Jersey's 21 counties now train Master Gardeners using a "train the trainer" approach to meet the needs of local communities and individuals.