The call for applications for the Highland Lakes Master Gardener Association Certification Class of 2026 is now open!

You must complete the Application and Volunteer Agreement Packet and deliver it, along with your $195 payment, made out to Highland Lakes Master Gardener Association, to Kelly Tarla, Burnet County Extension Agent by Friday, January 30, 2026 to be considered.

The Highland Lakes Master Gardener Association will again offer a certification course at the Texas AgriLife Extension office in Burnet beginning Tuesday, February 17, 2026 through Tuesday, April 28, for 11 weeks. Class times are 9:30 AM until 2:30 PM. Class size will be limited and will generally meet at the AgriLife auditorium in Burnet (occasionally meeting at other locations for field trips).

The course provides a comprehensive background in horticulture principles and practices with an emphasis on conservation, sustainability, and community service. Experts are invited each week to speak on such topics as soil composition and amendments, trees, entomology, vegetable gardening, water irrigation, plant taxonomy, invasive plants, landscape design, water conservation, plant propagation, grafting, and rainwater harvesting. We expect to have several field trips planned. The classes are fun and stimulating. They not only train the participants to be more knowledgeable gardeners for personal use but also to be of service and a resource to the community.