Workforce Training in Landscape & Garden Management
in partnership with
In 2021, NGBH developed a Certificate Program in Sustainable Landscape & Garden Management in partnership with Kennebec Valley Community College (KVCC) to meet the high demand for skilled landscape and garden workers by providing high-level training for those interested in a career in this field. This program is now one of KVCC's course offerings and is open to both newcomers and those already working in this field who are interested in advancing their knowledge and skills.
Session underway!
January 16 - April 13, 2024
10 Online Classes Tuesdays 6-9pm
2 Hands-On Classes
March 30 & April 13 in Blue Hill
Online classes cover topics such as work readiness, garden maintenance and planning, working with native plants, and understanding soil and water, with a focus on land stewardship.
Two hands-on labs during the session are located at the Native Gardens site in Blue Hill. Instructors with decades of experience will impart key knowledge and skills required for employment success.
Scholarships to help defray the course fee are available for employees recommended by their employers through generous funding by the Harold Alfond Center for the Advancement of Maine's Workforce.
Those interested in the course and in need of financial assistance who do not qualify for Harold Alfond Center funding are invited to click here to apply for an NGBH scholarship.
If you have any questions, email us or use the contact form below.
"I came away from the program feeling more confident in how to promote and work with native plants in my own gardening ventures." —K.S.
"This class was a great opportunity to learn from experienced professionals passionate about sharing their knowledge and improving how landscapes are managed.... I was introduced to local industry professionals and programs."
—Marsha Bard
"Little did I realize how much this program would feed my already intense interest and passion for native plants. It provided the impetus to continue this newly fueled trajectory which led to starting my own business."
—Ivonne Vazquez, Bas Rouge Farm & Forge
Development of this program has been made possible through the generous support of the Anahata Foundation.
The Downeast Innovation Fund of Maine Community Foundation awarded NGBH a capacity-building grant for 2021 to ensure a strong foundation for NGBH's expanded mission and programming. A community-building grant from Maine Community Foundation in 2022 supports NGBH's ongoing efforts.