We Are Garden Education Volunteers
Ramsey County Garden Education Volunteers are passionate about gardening and committed to sharing their knowledge with the community. Through teaching and nurturing, they aim to cultivate a love of gardening among locals.
Volunteers in Action 2025
406
garden education volunteers and interns
21,650+
volunteer community
service hours
10,000+
members of
our community helped
$826,774
monetary value of volunteer contributions in the county

Mission
Ramsey County Garden Education Volunteers share research-based knowledge and develop collaborative relationships to strengthen the important role of plants and horticulture, and the impact on local ecosystems in all Minnesota communities. We are trained by the University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program.
The mission of the University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program is to share research-based horticultural knowledge and practices, cultivate diverse collaborations, support project-based volunteer activities and inspire change to promote healthy people, healthy communities and a healthy planet.
Goals
We prioritize sustainability and community support to make a positive impact on the planet.

Sustainability
Protect and enhance the environment.

Community
Strengthen citizens and families by promoting the therapeutic benefits of gardening.

Healthy Living
Promote good nutrition by teaching residents to grow fruits and vegetable.
Ways We Serve
Ramsey County Garden Education Volunteers connect research-based yard and garden resources with our community in several ways:
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Teach adults research-based horticulture practices that align with the priorities of the University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program.
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Teach youth how to plant a garden and the benefits of gardening.
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Increase underserved communities’ access to gardening education.
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Answer questions about gardening topics at community events, Diagnostic Clinics and the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum’s Yard and Garden Line.
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Beautify public spaces and teach the public about plants through site-specific and well-labeled public gardens.
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Participate in horticultural research projects led by the University of Minnesota.
What We do
Ramsey County Garden Education Volunteers assist schools, youth programs, community organizations and individuals through outreach and education.
You can find us at community events, farmers markets, public housing complexes, garden clubs, Como Park and Conservatory, the Children’s Hospital, yard waste sites, teaching classes and planting gardens across Ramsey County.

Join the Ramsey County Garden Education Volunteer Program
Are you interested in becoming a volunteer for the Ramsey County Garden Education Program? Do you want to enhance your gardening skills and contribute to your community? This is the perfect opportunity to join the program and the thrilling world of master gardener volunteering!