WHAT: The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Extension Duval County will host an Open House showcasing programs that support agriculture, natural resources, food systems and community education. Visitors can connect directly with Extension experts and learn about backyard poultry, beekeeping, gardening, Florida-Friendly Landscaping™, small-acre farming, soil testing, irrigation and more.
WHEN: Saturday, August 29, 2026; 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
WHERE: UF/IFAS Extension Duval County, 1010 N. McDuff Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32254
Media RSVP contact: Chris Vivian, Associate Vice President, (727) 644-5791, cvivian@ufl.edu
About: Most Jacksonville residents know UF/IFAS for its research and educational programs.
On Saturday, Aug. 29, residents will have a chance to see how that expertise benefits their community during the UF/IFAS Duval County Extension Open House.
“From gardening and food safety to 4-H youth development, money management, and first-time homebuying, this event highlights the breadth of support available through Extension,” said Natasha Parks, Extension agent for UF/IFAS Extension Duval County.
The free event invites the public to meet the people and explore the programs and services available through the local Extension office. The Open House offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of Duval County’s most valuable community resources.
Guests can interact with specialists and experts, visit interactive exhibits and discover resources focused on gardening, Florida-Friendly Landscaping™, food safety, food preservation, financial education, environmental stewardship, youth development and more.
“We want the public to leave this event with a better understanding of what Extension is and how it can support individuals, families, and communities,” said Parks. “We’ve designed it to be welcoming, informative and engaging, giving participants a chance to meet our team, explore programs and discover services that can make a real difference in their lives.”
Whether attendees are interested in improving their home landscape, learning new skills, finding opportunities for their children through 4-H or connecting with trusted local experts, the event provides direct access to research-based information designed to improve everyday life.
Families are encouraged to attend and enjoy kid-friendly activities, informational exhibits and the kickoff of the new 4-H year.
Extension faculty and staff will be available throughout the event to answer questions and showcase the many ways UF/IFAS serves residents across Duval County.
The event is free and open to the public.
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ABOUT UF/IFAS
The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents.
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