There is an increasing public interest in urban areas for growing organic produce and ecological landscapes, according to OSU's Community and Urban Horticulturist Weston Miller. But, he says, those interested don't necessarily know what organic gardening entails.

OSU's Extension Service already has an extensive Master Gardener Program that helps Oregon gardeners learn more about the art and science of growing and caring for plants. It also enables trained volunteers to offer garden information to their communities through educational outreach programs. Currently, more than 30 Oregon counties have active Master Gardener programs. OSU's new Organic Master Gardener program will offer more hands-on training with a practicum focused on organic gardening.