Step 1: Start Local. If you're having a hard time finding an answer to a question, ask Master Gardener Volunteers in your local group. Someone may know the weed your attempting to ID, or have more experience with a particular pest problem. And don't forget to ask your coordinator, if you have one.
Step 2: Post Questions to MASTGAR Listserv. If no answers were found with Step 1, then ask your fellow Master Gardeners. MASTGAR is a great tool for asking about identification of pests and plants. Email your inquiry with a question to crowdsource a potential answer.
Step 3: Send email to MGWEB to request assistance from Extension Educator. If no answers were found with Step 2, then reach out to us. The University of Minnesota has a host of experts on all sorts of topics, from lawns to fruit and everything in between. Send your inquiry to mgweb@umn.edu and we can forward your question along to the appropriate expert.