History
The Extension Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City (MGGKC) Chapter started in 1987 as a program of the University of Missouri Extension (MUE). The Extension MGGKC Chapter joined the Missouri Master Gardener Association (MOMGA) in 2012.
In 2023, 290 active EMGs provided 12,119 hours of volunteer services promoting horticulture throughout the Clay, Jackson and Platte counties. Staffed a “Gardening Hotline” that provided horticultural information to the public, answering 500 questions via phone calls, emails and walk-in visits. Maintained 6 demonstration gardens and worked on 12 partnership gardens and 4 affiliate gardens to provide horticulture information to the public. Over 8700 pounds of harvested vegetables were donated to local food pantries.
Volunteer opportunities include community and affiliate garden projects, located at historic sites, museum grounds, a nature preserve, schools, and several community gardens. Volunteers provide horticulture education for the public through the Children’s programs, Garden Hotline, Speakers Bureau, and Gardeners’ Gathering lectures.