Search

Group of volunteers working in a garden center.

Master Gardener Volunteer Program

SDSU Extension’s Master Gardener program develops gardening enthusiasts into expert volunteers who share their research-based knowledge with community members across the state.

Judge shaking 4-H members hand

4-H Supporters

4-H supporters are dedicated individuals, organizations, and community partners who share a common commitment to empowering youth through hands-on learning, leadership development, and civic engagement.

A group of three people pruning a tree.

Garden Clubs & Associations

Novice gardeners and master gardeners share a love of and respect for nature, which is one of the many reasons why they naturally seek out like-minded individuals to organize clubs or associations.

Women look through potted plants on a table in a classroom

Registration open for 2026 SDSU Extension Master Gardener training

January 29, 2026

Registration is open for the 2026 South Dakota State University Extension Master Gardener training that will be offered from April 1 to July 31, 2026.

Home canning supplies and canned vegetables arranged on a countertop.

Master Food Preserver Volunteer Program

If you enjoy preserving food, volunteering and helping your community, SDSU Extension's Master Food Preserver volunteer program may be for you!

many hands raised in the air with sky background and the word volunteer

Volunteers

SDSU Extension volunteers participate in a variety of service programs through our organization, helping us expand the scope and effectiveness of our mission. In exchange for their service, volunteers receive training on a wide array of topics of interest to them. 

A group of Custer County Master Gardener volunteers gathered for a group photo.
Oct 02

Master Gardener Conference

The 2026 Master Gardener Conference will be held October 2-3. This event is an opportunity to obtain timely, research-based gardening information. Enjoy a unique venue, speakers and socialize with Master Gardener colleagues from across the state!

SDSU Extension Director Karla Trautman, 2021 Inductees Audrey and Art Kneen, SDSU Extension 4-H Youth Safety Field Specialist John Keimig and South Dakota 4-H Program Director Tim Tanner.

4-H Shooting Sports Hall of Fame Honorees

The 4-H Shooting Sports Hall of Fame was started in 2015. It was created to recognize those who played a role in bringing shooting sports to the South Dakota 4-H Program and those who have helped it to grow on the state and regional levels.

Tim Schreiner at his food preservation booth at the Vermillion Area Farmers Market.

Schreiner Turns Backyard Hobby Into Community Support

Whether volunteering as a Master Gardener or a Master Food Preserver, Tim Schreiner says the interaction with people and seeing that “light bulb” moment after a conversation is really the fun part of the programs.

Monarch Butterflies

SDSU Extension Master Gardener Club Guidebook

Guidebook for SDSU Extension Master Gardener Clubs