Become a trained Master Gardener, with the help of the Washington State University Island County extension program this year.

Completed applications are due Saturday, Jan. 31; the course costs $300. Training is from February to June and includes online coursework, in-person class time and field trips. Classes are taught by WSU faculty, veteran Master Gardeners, and other qualified experts.

Topics include water management, soils, composting, native and invasive plants, fruit production, plant diseases, entomology, Integrated Pest Management, and more.

Those accepted into training volunteer 85 hours of community service as an Island County Master Gardener Intern over the subsequent two-year period. Once internship hours are completed, Master Gardeners remain active through continuing education and 25 hours of volunteer work each year.

For more information and an application, visit http://ext100.wsu.edu/island/gardening/master-gardeners or call 360-240-5558.