Two Part question. The answer to part two is it isn't "illegal". Get the training where you can. Part one is more difficult. The training is worth the time, $$, and effort. What you do after the classes will determine the continuing value. The hours of volunteer service and the work one does putting that training to use makes it worth the time. Only my second year since my MG classes and enjoying the events in Calhoun County and the people. The work is easy and the hours are no problem. I continue to learn.

As a gardener it is one of the best things you will ever do, particularly if you stay involved after the training.

Do the program anywhere it is offered. You pay for it so there are no restriction. Good luck. When I retire that will be thr first thing I plan to do.

Well thank you everyone. I have signed up for the Fall 06 program out of Shelby County. I figure this will be the only time that I can do it until I am retired (over 25 years from now) so if I do it now and maintain the volunteerism, I should be good to go for a long time.