MANCHESTER — The University of Maine Cooperative Extension is seeking gardening enthusiasts for its Master Gardener Volunteers training, which trains volunteers to conduct and join sustainable horticulture projects in Kennebec and Waldo counties.

Trainees will receive more than 40 hours of training in the latest research-based information from UMaine Extension educators and industry experts. 

Training will be held from 1 to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday afternoons from Nov. 2 through Dec. 14, and continuing Feb. 1 through March 22, 2017, at Longfellow’s Greenhouses in Manchester.

The upcoming program will focus on vegetable and fruit production.

To complete the course, participants must also pass a written exam and volunteer a minimum of 40 hours at approved community projects the first year. There are many ways to volunteer, such as demonstration gardens, school programs, Harvest for Hunger campaigns, newsletter articles and public talks.

The course application is due by Sept. 29 for first consideration. If accepted, the program fee is due by Oct. 26. If the fee is a barrier to a participant, please contact the county master gardener coordinator, as limited scholarships are available.

FMI, to apply: extension.umaine.edu/kennebec/resources/master-gardeners, [email protected], 207-622-7546, 1-800-287-1481.