Master gardeners showing tomatoes in a greenhouse

Growing support for lasting impact

WSU Extension > Master Gardener Program > Priorities > 2025 Impact Report > Program funding

Throughout this site there are links to documents of various file types. Please contact our Statewide Program Leader if you require this information in a different format.

Investing in long‑term community resilience

The Heart of Our Program:

Extension Master Gardener volunteers are the heart of our Program cultivating plants, people and communities since 1973. WSU Extension Master Gardener volunteers empower and sustain diverse communities with relevant, research-based horticulture and environmental stewardship education for resilient individuals, families, and communities. In 2025, 4,091 volunteers gave 357,161 hours of their time and talents showing up for their communities with generosity, knowledge, and kindness. The generosity of volunteers is valued at $15,350,780 and equivalent to 172 full-time employees.

Pie chart showing 2025funding for the Master Gardener Program. WSU $2,400,000 WSU paid salaries and benefits, goods and services, travel, administrative fees. This amount excludes support from various WSU programs, facilities, and resources, including CAHNRS IT, CAHNRS Marketing, PREP, the Integrated Pest Management Team, AOI, and the value of office space, equipment, and land for demonstration gardens. Foundations $1,122,000 oundation sponsored support including salaries and educational outreach.

Another key part of sustaining and strengthening our mission is the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program Endowment. This endowment was created to ensure the long-term vitality of the program and to expand opportunities that enrich the volunteer experience. Endowment funds, currently valued at about $225,000, supports WA Green School | Washington State University curriculum development and operating costs.

Becoming a Master Gardener provided a vital sense of purpose in retirement. I joined not knowing compost from mulch, but this lifelong learning community built my confidence to teach others. Whether teaching food gardening practices and the health benefits of local food or mentoring flower gardeners, I’m leveraging my professional skills in fresh ways. It’s the perfect balance of personal growth and giving back to my community.”
Shari, WSU Extension Pierce County Master Gardener volunteer

Since completing the Master Gardener Since completing the Master Gardener grateful to find such a welcoming and supportive group. The program offers space for everyone to contribute in meaningful ways, and I’ve especially enjoyed being involved in our local plant sale, working in the dahlia garden, managing our booth at the NCW Fair, and overseeing our local social media page. Engaging with the public through these activities has not only deepened my knowledge within the program but has helped me feel more connected and grounded within our community.”
Brynn, WSU Extension Chelan/Douglas County Master Gardener volunteer

Being part of the WSU Master Gardener Program has been a rewarding journey of learning and community service. I’ve gained research-based knowledge that improves my own gardening and supports others through classes and events.

In Spokane County, our impact is clear—whether helping residents at the award-winning Plant Clinic or tending native and perennial plants in our new Quarry greenhouses. As educators and stewards, we partner with local organizations like the City of Spokane, Xerces Society, and Spokane Conservation District, to create sustainable habitats, promote water-wise gardening, and grow healthy communities. I’m proud to support WSU’s mission and invite others to join us.”
Matt, WSU Extension Spokane County Master Gardener volunteer