For us to ensure a safe, positive, and meaningful volunteer experience, Master Gardener Volunteers work on projects selected and approved by Extension. Any new project needs approval of your county coordinator before Master Gardener Volunteers can volunteer with that project. In the approval process, Extension reviews projects to satisfy liability concerns, align with program priorities and county needs, comply with required non-discrimination policies, and ensure the necessary support from your county Extension office. Projects must provide a public benefit and cannot be conducted on private property for individuals or private organizations only.

We have two broad categories of approved projects:

• Extension projects: UW-Madison Division of Extension provides the oversight and liability coverage. Master Gardener Volunteers work directly with Extension and in support of Extension and local MG associations. Master Gardener Volunteers may answer gardening questions at the fair, farm markets, and at the office. They may organize and run a speaker’s bureau, annual gardening conference, or other events in the scope of the program.
• Partner organization projects: Extension approves both the partner organization and the project before Master Gardener Volunteers can volunteer on these projects. These partner organizations are typically county or municipal government, school districts, or not-for-profit organizations (such as NGO, environmental center, botanical garden, or similar entity). Among other considerations, they must be able to safely support volunteers in doing meaningful work related to horticulture.

All approved projects are listed in our online reporting system. Some counties also provide a list and description of approved projects.

Volunteering with Youth