Master Gardeners are trained volunteers who assist University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) Extension Educators provide horticultural information to Nebraskans. Participants attend 40 hours of classroom training and are required to give back to their community 40 hours of volunteer service in the summer following training. The training program covers topics in botany, soils, fertilizers, lawn care, vegetable gardening, annual and perennial flowers, trees and shrubs, water gardening, insect, disease and weed control. Classes are taught by University of Nebraska Extension staff, using both distance technology and live speakers. Many volunteer projects are available and every gardener is welcome; no matter how "green" you are- we'll find a volunteer activity to suit you! In 2010, training classes will be held at the UNL Extension- Dodge County Office beginning Saturday, January 30. Participants must complete an application and a short 15-20 minute informational interview before they will be considered for acceptance into the program. The program cost is $150.00, which includes the Master Gardener handbook and turfgrass management guide. For more information, and to complete the online application, visit the web site below. Click on "Become A Master Gardener"for the online application. Or contact Sarah Browning, UNL Extension Eductor, for more information.