Find answers to common questions about the 2026 UC Master Gardener Conference, including registration, technology requirements, continuing education, accessibility, recordings, and participation.
General Information
What is the 2026 UC Master Gardener Conference?
The 2026 UC Master Gardener Conference is a virtual, statewide gathering for UC Master Gardener volunteers. It is designed to help volunteers learn, connect and grow through research-based horticulture education, peer sharing and statewide recognition.
When is the conference?
The conference will take place Sept. 18-20, 2026. It will be held online through Zoom Events.
Who may attend?
The conference is open to UC Master Gardener volunteers and UC ANR staff.
Can I watch the conference with other people?
Yes. You are welcome to watch conference sessions with others, such as fellow UC Master Gardener volunteers or staff. However, each attendee must register individually if they want to receive conference communication and access to post-conference communications and evaluation.
Is the conference recorded?
Yes. Conference sessions will be recorded whenever possible. Please note that recordings will not be available immediately after the conference, as they must undergo post-production and accessibility review, including captioning and other accessibility enhancements, before they are released.
Registration Details
How do I register?
Registration is open now, advance registration is required. The registration deadline is Wednesday, Sept. 16, at 11:59 p.m. After registering, participants will receive a confirmation email and additional information about accessing the virtual conference.
What do I need before I register?
Please have your name and email address, your county or local UC Master Gardener Program, and any accessibility accommodations you may need.
How will the conference be delivered?
Sessions will be presented through Zoom Events. Registered participants will receive access instructions by email before the conference. Please do not share session links.
What technology do I need to participate?
You'll need a computer or mobile device with internet access. We recommend using the latest version of the Zoom Workplace desktop application for the best conference experience. Download Zoom for Windows | Zoom
Accessibility Accommodations
How do I request accessibility accommodations?
If you need an accommodation to participate in the conference, please indicate your needs during registration. If your needs change after registering or you require additional assistance, contact the conference planning team at MGEvents@ucanr.edu as early as possible so we can work with you to support your participation.
Will captions be available?
Yes. Live automated captions will be available during conference sessions. Recorded sessions will also include reviewed captions before they are made available after the conference.
Continuing Education
Will continuing education hours be available?
Yes. The conference is intended to offer continuing education hours. Credit instructions will be shared before the conference. Based on the posted schedule, the conference includes 13 hours of scheduled programming if all listed sessions are attended and credited on a time-for-time basis. Continuing education hours breakdown by day:
| Date: | Eligible Continuing Education (CE): |
|---|---|
| Friday, Sept. 18 | 3 Hours |
| Saturday, Sept. 19 | 5 Hours |
| Sunday, Sept. 20 | 5 Hours |
Total | = 13 hours |
How were the continuing education hours calculated?
The posted schedule includes three hours on Friday, five hours on Saturday and five hours on Sunday, for a total of 13 hours of scheduled programming. That total is based on the agenda as posted and does not include breaks.
What kinds of sessions are included for CE hours?
The schedule includes welcome remarks, volunteer recognition, Search for Excellence awards, accessibility and inclusion sessions, research briefs, food and outreach topics, and youth engagement topics.
Additional Items
What is Search for Excellence?
Search for Excellence recognizes outstanding UC Master Gardener volunteer projects that demonstrate meaningful learning and community impact.
Where can conference speakers find presentation requirements?
The Speaker Resources page includes everything presenters need to prepare for the conference, including presentation guidelines, Zoom requirements, accessibility best practices, deadlines, and technical information.
Who do I contact with questions?
For questions, contact the conference planning team at MGEvents@ucanr.edu.