Charleston County Master Gardeners Association

The Charleston County Master Gardeners Association is a non-profit organization associated with the broader South Carolina Master Gardeners program. This initiative is part of a larger network of Master Gardeners across the state, which works under the guidance of Clemson University's Cooperative Extension Service.

Mission and Objectives

The primary mission of the Charleston County Master Gardeners Association is to train and utilize knowledgeable volunteers to provide educational services in horticulture. These services include delivering research-based information to the public on gardening-related topics. The association aims to foster community partnerships and promote sustainable gardening practices in the Lowcountry region.

Programs and Activities

• Volunteer Training and Service: The association follows the South Carolina Master Gardener Program's structure, where participants undergo intensive horticultural training. This training covers topics such as soils and plant nutrition, entomology, plant pathology, and vegetable gardening. After completing the training, volunteers must fulfill a service requirement, which includes providing educational support to the community through projects like demonstration gardens, educational programs, and community gardening initiatives.

• Community Engagement: The association engages in various community activities, including educational lectures, workshops, and demonstrations designed to promote gardening practices and environmental stewardship.

• Continuing Education: To maintain certification, Master Gardeners must complete continuing education hours and volunteer service annually. This ensures that they stay updated with the latest horticultural practices and knowledge.

Affiliations

The Charleston County Master Gardeners Association is affiliated with the Tri-County Master Gardeners Association, which also covers Berkeley and Dorchester counties. This affiliation allows for broader community impact and collaboration across the region.

Non-Profit Status

The association operates as a non-profit organization with an Employer Identification Number (EIN) of 204630744. This status reflects its commitment to community service and education without profit motives.

Overall, the Charleston County Master Gardeners Association plays a vital role in promoting horticultural awareness and community development in the region through education, service, and partnerships.

[1] https://www.clemson.edu/mastergardener [2] https://www.chashortsoc.org [3] https://www.clemson.edu/extension/mg/associations.html [4] https://www.ggmga.org/become-a-master-gardener.html [5] https://lowcountrymga.org/site-info/