Colorado State University is now accepting applications for the 2010 Master Gardener Program. The Tri River Area Master Gardeners, serving Mesa, Delta, Montrose and Ouray counties, are the horticulture volunteers for extension.

Master Gardeners assist the public by answering gardening questions, providing accurate research-based information in a friendly atmosphere. Master Gardeners are active in community horticultural projects on the Western Slope, working out of the Grand Junction, Delta and Montrose offices. Extensive training is provided to the volunteers before they begin working with the public.

The Apprentice Master Gardener training course begins Thursday, Jan. 14, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Grand Junction and continues every Thursday through March 25. Class sessions cover plant science, soils, irrigation, fertilization, trees and shrubs, insects, plant diseases, lawn care, weed management and more. All classes address actual Western Slope conditions.

Apprentice Master Gardeners commit to a minimum of 50 hours during the spring and summer months, assisting the public at the Tri River Area Extension Offices and participating in other horticultural projects including extensive demonstration gardens. Work schedules are flexible and a variety of projects are available.

The registration fee is $125 for apprentices, or the course is available for $425 for those who prefer no return commitment. Cost includes the Master Gardener manual and all applicable CSU and Tri River Area publications. Visit www.westernslope

gardening.org or contact Susan Rose at 244-1841 or susan.rose@coloradostate.edu for further information or to receive an application.

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