EVALUATION OF THE EFFICACY OF MAINE'S MASTER GARDENER VOLUNTEERS PROGRAM: A TWO-YEAR STUDY
Applied Research
Marjorie Peronto
EXTENSION EDUCATOR
ELLSWORTH
Abstract
\r\n As Master Gardener Volunteer (MGV) program facilitators, we want to know to what extent our work makes a difference. Our two essential questions were: 1) are Cooperative Extension’s goals for the MGV program being attained, and 2) are MGV program participants realizing their aspirations? Cooperative Extension wishes to see program participants gain horticultural knowledge, increase use of sustainable gardening practices, and increase community volunteer activity. Participants’ primary aspirations, as defined by a survey, are to become better gardeners, to become more active volunteers, and to increase their association with like-minded people. The tools we used included pre- and post-tests, an in-class survey for baseline data, and a follow-up survey one year after graduation (74% response rate). All documents were coded to track participant responses. Mean scores on the pre- and post-horticulture test were 59.6% and 83.3% respectively, indicating participants gained horticultural knowledge. The follow-up survey showed that graduates initiated new sustainable gardening practices (e.g. 40% had their soil tested for the first time) or improved certain practices (e.g. 63% improved composting methods). The follow-up survey also showed that 89% increased their commitment to volunteerism, a result confirmed by reported volunteer hours. Levels of achievement for participants’ three primary aspirations were: become a better gardener, 95%; increase community volunteering, 82%; and associate with like-minded people, 76%. Our results demonstrate that the Maine Master Gardener Volunteers program is meeting both Cooperative Extension’s and participants’ goals to a great degree. We have also discovered ways in which we can further improve the program.
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Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: M.L. Peronto, B.S. Murphy
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Peronto, M. Extension Educator, University of Maine Cooperative Extension, Maine, 04605
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Murphy, B. Extension Educator, University of Maine Cooperative Extension, Maine, 04281