POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

MORGAN COUNTY MASTER GARDENERS ASSOCIATION

The following policies and procedures were adopted by the Morgan County Master Gardeners Association (MCMGA) on October 22, 2008. These represent policies and procedures that are not appropriate for inclusion in the Bylaws. Any policy or procedure may be changed by a simple majority vote of the MCMGA membership.

Expenditure of Effort and/or Funds: Motions that require the expenditure of effort and/or funds must be accompanied by a written estimate of the amount of effort and funds required, proof that the proposed action is worthwhile, achievable, and affordable and that it can be accomplished with currently available effort and funds. Accordingly, the person who will take the lead on the effort must be identified. The MCMGA will take advantage of opportunities to profitably spend effort and/or funds to enhance and extend the Good Name of Master Gardeners if the effort and/or funds are not required elsewhere.

Death of Member: In the event of the death of a member, a letter of condolence shall be sent to the family and an appropriate $50.00 memorial shall be provided in accordance with the family's wishes.

Outstanding Service: A letter of appreciation may be sent to individuals who perform outstanding service, not considered routine committee work. If an individual who is not a member of the Association performs a service for the Association, a gift commensurate with the degree of service shall be considered.

Commercial Publicity: In accordance with the Memorandum of Agreement the Morgan County Master Gardeners signed upon certification, members will refrain from promoting commercial or private businesses. Participating in a commercial activity, having association with commercial products, or giving implied University of Extension System endorsements to any product or place of business is in violation of Extension policies.

Political Activity: The promotion of political or religious activity by Association members while engaged in Master Gardener activities is prohibited.

MCMGA Mailing List(s) and Telephone Numbers: The residential and e-mail addresses and telephone numbers of MCMGA members may be used and/or released to persons or organizations only if necessary to promote MCMGA activities.

Dues Clarification: Dues are currently $15.00 and are subject to change annually. The dues are for membership during the calendar year January 1 through December 31. Dues are delinquent if not paid by January 1 of each calendar year. AMGA will continue to send newsletters and other communications to members until April 1 of the calendar year before dropping them from the state mailing list(s); however, the member is not considered in good standing until his/her dues are paid.