About Us

Mission

The SCMGF mission, in partnership with WSU Extension, is to support Skagit County home gardeners by promoting science-based gardening practices and education. How this partnership works:

- MGs are trained and certified volunteers who work with WSU Extension.
- SCMGF raises funds to support the MG program, operates the Discovery Garden, assists MGs in our clinics, recognizes MG volunteers’ achievements, and supports educational programs for MGs and for public outreach events.
- SCMGF facilitates the exchange of ideas and information with WSU Extension and serves as advisor to the WSU Skagit County Extension Director and MG Program Coordinator.

MGs are encouraged, but not required, to join the SCMGF. Only SCMGF members may serve on the board, vote on board membership, and vote on matters presented to the foundation.

History

Washington State launched the nation’s first Master Gardener program in 1973. In the first year, approximately 120 MGs from King and Pierce Counties were trained and 7,000 clients were served. Today, over 3,600 MGs volunteering in 32 of Washington’s 39 counties serve more than 250,000 clients each year.

The Skagit County MG program started in 1977 when our first plant clinic opened. Now Skagit County has over 150 certified Master Gardeners and up to 25 new interns each year.

The Skagit County Master Gardener Foundation (SCMGF) was formed in January 1995 as a charitable and educational nonprofit organization intended to raise funds for the Skagit County MG program. In 1996, SCMGF entered into a formal and ongoing agreement with WSU Northwestern Washington Research & Extension Center (NWREC) and WSU Skagit County Extension to launch a two-plus acre demonstration garden on WSU-NWREC property in Mount Vernon. The initial Discovery Garden opened in 1996 with 14 garden areas. Today, the garden hosts 27 garden areas as well as structures for community outreach and 2 production greenhouses. The purpose of the Discovery Garden is to inspire and educate the public. Read more about the garden and come by for a visit !