The application period for 2026-2027 Master Recycler Composter (MRC) Volunteer Training program is open now through 8 a.m. Monday, Aug. 17.
In addition, the application period for the 2026-2027 Washington State University (WSU) Thurston County Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Training is now open as well.
• The MRC interactive training focuses on a wide range of topics taught by regional experts and staff from Thurston County Public Works and WSU Extension who specialize in composting, recycling and waste reduction.
Classes will be in person on Fridays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Sept. 18, Oct. 2, Oct. 16, Oct. 30, Nov. 13, Nov. 20, Dec. 4, Dec. 11, Jan. 8, Jan. 22, Feb. 5, Feb. 12, Feb. 26, March 12 and March 19.
Applicants must be 18 years of age or older, and either live, work or operate a business in Thurston County.
For more information, or to apply to the 2026-2027 Thurston County MRC Volunteer Training, visit www.extension.wsu.edu/thurston/gardening/mc/.
• The 2026-2027 Washington State University (WSU) Thurston County Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Training course runs from Friday, Sept. 25, through Friday, May 14, 2027, and includes comprehensive virtual, classroom and field-based instruction.
WSU Extension staff and regional experts will teach basic botany, soil science, plant identification, pest and disease diagnosis, and how to grow food. Attendees will also learn how to research best gardening practices and how to answer horticulture questions from the public. No textbook required, but training includes online reading, homework, quizzes, in-class activities, lectures and a final exam.
After completion of training, participants are expected to share what they learned via horticultural-related community service in Thurston County.
Tuition for the training is $291 and covers all course training supplies, field experiences and background check fee. The deadline to submit a volunteer application is 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28. Applications are open to those ages 18 and up.
For more information about the training and the application process, visit https://tinyurl.com/5n95kmkx.
