The University of California Master Gardener Program announced on Mar. 24 the winners of its 2026 Search for Excellence awards, recognizing outstanding volunteer-led projects across California that promote gardening education and community impact.
The triennial awards highlight innovative approaches and measurable results in extending research-based gardening knowledge to local communities. The recognition underscores the important role volunteers play in advancing sustainable practices and environmental stewardship throughout the state.
Missy Gable, statewide director of the UC Master Gardener Program, said, “UC Master Gardeners show up for their communities in so many generous and inspiring ways. The Search for Excellence awards give us a chance to celebrate the volunteers behind these efforts and the heart they bring to their work every day.”
Fourteen counties submitted projects this year. Orange County earned first place with its “Growing Food in Small Spaces” project, which teaches residents hydroponic techniques using upcycled containers—especially benefiting those with limited space such as apartment dwellers or students. Butte County received second place for “Bringing Science to Life in School Gardens,” a program supporting teachers with hands-on science curriculum aligned with state standards. Sonoma County was awarded third place for its Youth Education Field Trip Project at Valley of the Moon Children’s Garden, offering free outdoor learning experiences focused on pollination, gardening, vermiculture, sensory plants, and Indigenous Wappo stewardship practices.
These initiatives are part of broader efforts by University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) to extend university research through educational programs operating in all 58 counties according to the official website. UC ANR conducts over 33,800 educational events annually and engages more than 18,400 volunteers according to the official website. It also utilizes nine research and extension centers as laboratories representing diverse ecosystems according to the official website.
UC ANR secures funding through public contributions according to the official website, promotes sustainable practices for resilient ecosystems according to the official website, manages Cooperative Extension services within the University of California system according to the official website, and has gained recognition for linking research directly with community needs according to the official website.
In coming weeks, organizers plan further coverage highlighting each winning project’s impact. Together these efforts reflect how UC Master Gardener volunteers help expand access to fresh food while fostering curiosity about science among young learners.