Originally published in The Gadsden County Times
The Cooperative Extension System is a partnership between state, federal and county governments to provide scientific knowledge and expertise to the public. We operate through land grant universities, such as the University of Florida (UF) and Florida A&M University (FAMU) and in partnership with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Our mission within Extension is to provide science-based information to the public, helping to solve problems related to agriculture, horticulture, natural resources, youth, families, and communities.
At the Gadsden County Extension Office, we offer a wide range of educational programs and resources for people of all ages and backgrounds. Information is disseminated through a variety of methods such as workshops, seminars, field visits, and publications. These programs include:
Commercial Horticulture: Our Commercial Horticulture programs offer information and resources to help fruit, vegetable, and nursery producers to improve the productivity and sustainability of their operations. From soil samples to plant tissue samples and everything in between.
Small Farms & Residential Horticulture: Our Small Farms and Residential Horticulture program offers educational resources to homeowners and small farmers as well as the Master Gardener Training program.
Agriculture and Natural Resources: Our Agriculture and Natural Resources program provides education to farmers, ranchers, and landowners on crop and livestock production, soil health, water management, and wildlife management.
Family and Consumer Sciences: Family & Consumer Science programs deliver research based educational programs that empower individuals to make informed decisions for their health, their family, and their community. Whether it is eating healthy on a budget, handling stress, creating a budget, or maintaining a healthy home, Family & Consumer Sciences can help you find a solution.
4-H Youth Development: 4-H is the youth development side of extension that empowers young people from ages 5 to 18 to reach their potential though hands-on learning and leadership opportunities. Our Gadsden County 4-H program offers several types of 4-H clubs such as Livestock, Saddle, Sewing, Taste of 4-H, and Dog Obedience as well as school enrichment programs.
In an effort to continue to expand our Extension programming, we have partnered with The Gadsden County Times to share a weekly column on educational and relevant topics. We are happy to be a resource for the local community and our office is here to serve you by providing education, resources, and support! Here are some upcoming educational extension events:
Garden Fresh Salsa Canning Class – May 2 from 6-8PM at the Gadsden County Extension Office. Canning is a great way to preserve produce that you have grown or bought at a farmer’s market. The key to home canning is that it must be done safely and correctly. Join us to learn how to properly can fruits and vegetables and take home your own fresh salsa. To register: https://gardenfreshsalsa.eventbrite.com
Emerging Farmers Symposium – May 3 and 4 beginning at 8 AM at the UF/IFAS North Florida Research & Education Center. Educational program on cost share and lending programs, agritourism, and ag marketing opportunities. To register: https://2023emergingfarmers.eventbrite.com
For more information on Cooperative Extension or any upcoming programs, please contact the Gadsden County Extension Office at 850-875-7255 or stop by our office on Highway 90 at 2140 W. Jefferson Street, Quincy, FL. You can also stay up to date by following us on Facebook at UF IFAS Extension Gadsden County!
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