Workforce Training in Landscape & Garden Management
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. For 2026, NGBH has redesigned this program to be housed at our Blue Hill campus.
2026 Program Dates: February-June
Cost: $600
Online Classes
Tuesdays 6:00-8:30 pm (2/24, 3/17, 4/28, 5/12)
Hands-On Classes
Saturday in-person sessions (9 am-12 pm & 1-4 pm) in Blue Hill (2/28, 3/28, 5/16, 6/13)
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.
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.
Financial assistance to defray the course fee is available via a limited number of scholarships.
Those seeking financial assistance may request an application via email and must demonstrate a commitment to completing the full training program.
For additional 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 expand NGBH's mission and programming, including training program development.