UC Master Gardener volunteers promote the application of basic environmentally appropriate gardening practices through organized educational programs that transfer research-based knowledge and information. Program policies and core values were established to ensure the educational and administrative integrity of all UC Master Gardener Program activities.
Key Policies and Core Values
- Education, not service
- Teach practical and usable skills that are neutral and unbiased towards specific commercial products
- Avoid conflicts of interest
- UC Master Gardener volunteers are guides to learning and respect the viewpoints of others
- Activities are inclusive, not exclusive
- UC Master Gardener volunteers only extend research-based information and knowledge
Appointment Requirements
- Pass exam by 70 percent
- Background screening
- Sign the code of conduct
- Driver's license and proof of insurance (if driving)
- Annual agreement
- Appointment is valid for one year
Code of Conduct
All UC Master Gardener Program volunteers and volunteer trainees shall act in ways that promote and support the program goals and shall not be in conflict with UC ANR and UC Master Gardener policies and procedures.
Resources - Code of Conduct:
Pesticide Use and Recommendations
- May use pesticide products in demonstration gardens but they must be used in accordance with the label and all state and federal laws. UCCE staff should approve any pesticide applications an provide adequate training for such applications.
- Home remedies may not be recommended for use as pesticides unless UC has a published recommendation
- All pesticide recommendations to the public must be UC published recommendations
Confidentiality and Privacy
- Do not share address lists of UC Master Gardeners with public
- Do not share client lists with public
Conflicts of Interest
- UC policy requires that we not engage in any activity that places us in a conflict of commitment
- May not use title of UC Master Gardener as part of a commercial interest
Insurance and Liability
- UC maintains self-insurance for general liability that protects UC Master Gardeners from third party suites or claims when working as a volunteer
- UC does not provide worker’s compensation
- When using a personal car, volunteer or staff's auto insurance is primary and UC self insurance is secondary. Limits must be set at UC standard of 50/100/50.