NATIONAL HISTORY

The master gardener program was originally developed in 1973 on the national level to train volunteers who would then serve as the conduit for dissemination of information and research results from land grant educational and research institutions to the general public through county cooperative extension services. Particular attention was to be paid to providing agricultural and horticultural education to underserved populations. County extension agencies throughout the country were mandated to train and certify individuals to become master gardeners and continue to do so today.

Master gardener associations are formed either by county extension agents and/or by master gardeners in order to provide a way for individuals who have been trained and certified to continue their education and service.

LOCAL HISTORY

The Jefferson County Master Gardener Association was formed by Jefferson County Extension Agent, Dawn Ripley, in 1998, in collaboration with master gardeners.

In January 2008, the Association was reorganized and now functions as a strong, nonprofit organization that partners and collaborates with the Jefferson County Cooperative Extension Service on issues regarding certification and volunteer service requirements, as well as on horticultural and agricultural volunteer projects and community education programs.

Since 2008, the JCMGA has grown in all ways possible. The Association has seen an increase in the number of its members, volunteer hours, projects and programs provided to the general public, and in the amount of money raised for donations and projects. The JCMGA is a vibrant organization providing valuable services within the Louisville Metro area.

The Jefferson County Master Gardener Association, Inc. is a 501(c)3 charitable organization.