Grants of up to $1,000 for youth gardening projects are available through NDSU. Any project related to youth and gardening is eligible. 

Funds may be used to purchase gardening supplies, such as tools, soil, seeds, plants or containers; books; or other educational supplies.

"Schools, 4-H clubs, church groups and other youth organizations are encouraged to apply," said Dean Aakre, NDSU 4-H youth development specialist. "A review of the applications will begin Feb. 13 and continue until the available $30,000 are exhausted."

More than 4,800 youth in 51 counties participated in Junior Master Gardener projects in 2014. Projects included starting school gardens, beautifying schools and churches, 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," said Tom Kalb, NDSU Extension horticulturist.

For more information and an application form, go to www.ag.ndsu.edu/jrmastergardener. Inquiries can be made to Aakre at dean.aakre@ndsu.edu, Kalb at tom.kalb@ndsu.edu or Todd Weinmann at todd.weinmann@ndsu.edu.

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