Do you enjoy gardening? Would you like to share your knowledge and enthusiasm with others? Then consider the Penn State Master Gardener Program.

Applications are now being accepted for the 2005-06 Penn State Master Gardener Program. Sponsored by Penn State Cooperative Extension, the program is a volunteer training opportunity designed to provide experienced home gardeners with the knowledge and skills necessary to share their experience and information with others. Individuals from Butler County are invited to apply for this year's program.

In exchange for 30 hours of instruction, candidates agree to complete 50 hours of volunteer service to Penn State Cooperative Extension. The volunteer portion of the program is flexible and can be designed to meet the interests and time constraints of the individual.

Weekly classes will be held from 7 to 10 p.m. on Thursday evenings at the Butler County Extension Office. Core curriculum classes will be held Oct. 6 through Nov. 17.

Following a holiday break, classes will resume Jan. 5 and continue through March 23. There is a $150 fee to cover the cost of the training manual, materials and instructor expenses.

Applications are being accepted through Sept. 9. Candidates are selected on the basis of the written application, a pre-course test, and a personal interview. An orientation meeting and interviews will be conducted on Sept. 22. Applicants must attend that meeting to be considered for the program.

To request an application, contact the Butler County Extension Office at 724-287-4761. Written requests for applications may be directed to: Butler County Cooperative Extension, 101 Motor Pool Way, Butler, PA 16001.