Review of Key UConn Master Gardener Policies Active Certified Master Gardeners are representatives of the University of Connecticut, following university policies, and working under the supervision of a University of Connecticut staff member. In this capacity, they continue to provide free, unbiased research-based information consistent with the recommendations of the University of Connecticut and other land grant institutions. Active Certified Master Gardeners are insured by the University of Connecticut’s liability policy when volunteering for authorized projects in the community, at local Extension Centers, the Bartlett Arboretum, and other University sites. Active Certified Master Gardeners may also be entitled to tax deductions for mileage associated with travel to and from UConn Master Gardener-sanctioned events. (Check with your tax advisor to see if you may be eligible for federal and/or state tax deductions for travel expenses.) In order to protect Active Certified Master Gardeners from liability issues in the course of their duties, the following policies must be followed:

• Volunteers will perform duties without financial compensation or workers compensation coverage. Payment should not be requested for speaking engagements. In lieu of fees, donations to the Master Gardener Program may be accepted. Any monies collected during fundraising activities shall be turned over to the UConn Master Gardener Program.
• Site visits to a client’s home are not a sanctioned activity and are not permitted.
• No recommendations or endorsements of specific products or businesses should be made. Volunteers are acting as representatives of the University of Connecticut and as unbiased resources.
• No oral recommendations for pesticides are made. If recommendations are requested, UConn factsheets or other approved, research-driven factsheets may be provided with appropriate recommendations. Clients make their own decision on usage.
• Questions on chemical properties are referred to the National Pesticide Hotline.
• Master Gardeners should not identify specific ticks or spiders or answer medical or legal questions.
• Master Gardeners should not identify mushrooms or try to determine if a plant or mushroom is edible.
• Possible poisoning cases should be immediately referred to the Poison Control Center at the UConn Health Center in Farmington or the National Poison Control Center.
• News articles, newsletters, UConn Fact Sheets, brochures, etc. prepared by a volunteer shall be reviewed and approved by a local Master Gardener program coordinator or designated UConn Faculty/Staff member before publication to count toward volunteer hours. Articles submitted for print or publication must follow the UConn Master Gardener protocol. Coordinators shall be notified of any planned speaking engagements, including audience and topic.
• Requests for information by newspaper reporters or other media should be referred to a local Master Gardener Program Coordinator.
• Volunteers do not have the authority to sign contracts on behalf of the University of Connecticut or the UConn Extension Master Gardener Program.
• To be responsible for my own behavior and uphold the high standards and expectations of the program and to be in alignment with UConn Code of Conduct; To be professional, promoting good relationships between the University and the public.
• To present myself with courtesy and tact, with consideration and respect for other’s beliefs and opinions.
• Failure to adhere or to comply with any of these policies may lead to termination from the program.

For a more complete discussion of policies concerning Master Gardeners and their roles in extension, contact your program coordinator for clarification.

We are proud of our program and its positive impact on the citizens of Connecticut. Thank you for your continued commitment to its excellence and your generous volunteerism!