Schools, 4-H clubs, church groups and other youth organizations are encouraged to apply for the gardening grants. (NDSU photo)

By Kelli Anderson

FARGO, N.D. (NDSU Extension) – Grants of up to $1,000 for youth gardening projects are available through North Dakota State University Extension. Approximately 50 projects are supported across the state each year.

Funds may be used to purchase gardening supplies (tools, soil, seeds, plants or containers) and educational supplies. Schools, 4-H clubs, church groups and other youth organizations are encouraged to apply.

More than 3,300 youth participated in Junior Master Gardener projects in 2019. These projects included starting school gardens, beautifying schools and parks, constructing raised beds for the elderly and growing food for local food pantries.

“We want to help kids learn about gardening and get active in serving their community,” says Tom Kalb, NDSU Extension horticulturist.

For more information and an application form, go to https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/jrmastergardener. The application deadline is March 5.

Inquiries can be made to Dean Aakre at dean.aakre@ndsu.edu, Tom Kalb at tom.kalb@ndsu.edu or Carrie Knutson at carrie.knutson@ndsu.edu.