History of the Oklahoma County
Master Gardener Program

In 1972, a very bright Washington State Extension Service Educator had the idea that well trained volunteers could answer many of the routine questions asked by homeowners. This would free him for more challenging and technical problems. So, he selected, trained and certified volunteers as 'Master Gardeners". They soon exceeded all expectations! Since that time, it is estimated that at least 60,000 people have been trained as Master Gardeners in over 1000 programs in all 50 states and 4 Canadian provinces.

The Oklahoma program began right here in Oklahoma County in 1978 by Bill Geer (now Oklahoma County Extension Director). It is estimated that more than 1200 people have gone through Master Gardener training right here on North Portland in OKC! Also, more than 50,00 hours of volunteer service has been given back to the Extension and the community of Oklahoma City.

Master Gardeners are recruited and trained to:
1) improve the overall efficiency in providing one-on-one service to the non-commercial horticulture clientele in the county
2) provide group learning and teaching activities
3) allow Extension Educators time to develop proactive Extension programs, and
4) form a group of Extension volunteers to support additional horticultural efforts

So, our mission is to help support the Extension and their mission of bringing the University to the Community by educating ourselves so we can educate others.