University of Nevada Cooperative Extension (UNCE) will hold a registration session for the upcoming fall 2008 Master Gardener class from 8 to 10 a.m., Monday, Aug. 18 at the Cooperative Extension office, 1651 E. Calvada Blvd.

The fall training class begins Sept. 5 and will be held from 9 a.m. to noon on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

The Master Gardener program is open to individuals of all gardening backgrounds; the focus of the program is on volunteering -- sharing your gardening knowledge with the community.

The Master Gardener program teaches correct desert gardening practices including proper plant selection and care, disease and pest management and water-efficient gardening.

To become a Master Gardener, an individual must complete 70 hours of horticultural instruction and volunteer 50 hours to community projects each year.

The volunteer projects are ongoing at the Master Gardener Demonstration Garden and farmer's market. Additional projects include the semi-annual tree deliveries, horticultural workshops and plant sales.

At the registration session, UNCE horticulture staff will detail the training program requirements, volunteer commitment and Master Gardener Community Projects.

A fee is charged to cover the cost of books and other training materials. Applicants with payment are accepted on a first-come basis. Class size is limited.

All interested persons are advised to attend the registration session in order to secure entrance into the class. Reservations may be made by calling Diane Herndon at 775-727-5532 or e-mail herndond@unce.unr.edu.