Besides being a fun way to learn about horticulture and meet like-minded gardeners, the Master Gardener Volunteer Program is an important part of the Minnesota Extension Service. The Master Gardener Volunteer Program is recruiting new participants between now and the end of September, and Oct. 1 is the last day to sign up for the 2027 intern group. Within your first year, you are expected to complete 50 hours of volunteer work that meets the criteria of the Master Gardener Program. I'm completing my third year as a Master Gardener Volunteer and I've enjoyed so many things about it. If you have questions about becoming a Master Gardener, come out to the Beltrami County Fair Horticulture Building — Master Gardeners will be there every day.