RESEARCH

Extension Master Gardener Volunteers of the 21st Century: Educated, Prosperous, and Committed

This comprehensive national study of Extension Master Gardener (EMG) volunteers and coordinators surveyed state coordinators, local coordinators, and EMG volunteers across 49 U.S. states with active EMG programs. The study collected demographic information and program data, providing important insights into the characteristics of current EMG volunteers and coordinators nationwide.

Program Types: Social

Population Groups: Master Gardeners

Setting or Context: Urban vs. Rural Settings

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Increased Horticultural Knowledge

Allied Profession Intersections: Landscape Design

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening

Evidence Type: Quantitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Standardized Assessment Tools, Program Effectiveness

Access: Free

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Summary

This article describes a comprehensive national study of Extension Master Gardener (EMG) volunteers and their coordinators conducted in Fall 2016. The study used three separate surveys distributed consecutively to state coordinators, local coordinators, and EMG volunteers across 49 U.S. states with active EMG programs. The surveys collected demographic information and program data, with a strong response rate representing 71.4% of state programs and 7,498 volunteers.

The results revealed that EMG volunteers were primarily female, white, educated, retired, and financially stable, with a mean age of 64.8 years and an average of 7.7 years of service. The study identified four generations of volunteers, with Baby Boomers comprising the majority at 73.2%. Significant differences were found in age, years of service, and volunteer hours among generations and across extension programmatic regions. The majority of EMG volunteers (80.5%) served in urban counties. The study also provided demographic information on state and local coordinators, finding them to be primarily white females with advanced degrees. This comprehensive demographic analysis offers important insights for future program growth and development in the EMG program.

Link

Dorn, S.T., Newberry, M.G., Bauske, E.M., & Pennisi, S.V. (2018). Extension master gardener volunteers of the 21st century: Educated, prosperous, and committed. HortTechnology, 28, 218-229.

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