A program that hasn’t been in Greene County for several years is making a return to help anyone interested in sharpening their “green thumb” skills.

Greene County ISU Extension Director Jeff Lamoureux says the Master Gardener program is a ten-week series of training classes and workshops that participants work towards a state-wide designation that signifies their expertise in gardening. He talks about why he wanted to bring this important program back to the county.

“By request. When I took the position (to be the County Extension Director) just over a year ago, that was some feedback I was getting from the community. A few people had asked me about that and are familiar with the Master Gardener program. And I thought, ‘I think it’s time. We’ll see what we can do.’”

Lamoureux points out that each Master Gardener is also required to document 40 volunteer hours to keep their certification. The cost to participate is $175 and the course begins on February 16th. Contact the Greene County Extension Office in Jefferson at 515-386-2138 for more information or to sign up.