2024 Archives - Page 2 of 5 - Land-Grant Impacts

Year

high school students in a computer lab

Illinois program prepares high schoolers for college success

Getting a college degree can significantly boost one’s career and income prospects. But many students who start college drop out and don’t finish — a phenomenon many experts believe stems from barriers to accessing resources that could aid their academic success. Additionally, it’s not uncommon for high schoolers who intend to apply for college to never actually do so, [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities 2024, Extension, Illinois, North Central, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H

4-H fair, agent samples planting for a group of students

4-H buddies help special needs youth experience camp

Camping programs are among the hallmark experiences in 4-H that many young people look forward to every year. But some 4-H participants with special needs, such as disabilities and medical concerns, are unable to participate. In Columbia County, Georgia, a 4-H volunteer approached Extension staff with the idea of hosting an inclusive mini camp. Three two-day programs were held that [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities 2024, Child and Family Resilience, Extension, Georgia, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Southern, The University of Georgia, Youth Development/4-H

rural barn on the country

Minnesota youth program addresses rural stress

Rural and farm stress has been a challenge for Minnesotans in recent years. Effective programs addressing this issue cannot ignore youths, who are aware of and affected by family stress. For that reason, the University of Minnesota Extension implemented a youth worker training program that bridges research and practice in a variety of ways. Outreach efforts include in-person and virtual [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities 2024, Child and Family Resilience, Extension, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Minnesota, North Central, University of Minnesota

grilling steaks on the grill

In Louisiana, 4-H-ers “Geaux Grilling” to learn about cooking, meat science

Most Americans are unfamiliar with the ins and outs of raising cattle — yet many consumer surveys indicate that purchasing decisions are influenced by how food is produced. To help beef up the next generation of consumers’ knowledge of animal science, meat selection, cooking techniques and food safety, a Louisiana State University AgCenter 4-H livestock specialist devised the Geaux Grilling [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities 2024, Extension, Food Systems, Louisiana, Louisiana State University, Southern, Youth Development/4-H

fire truck

Georgia 4-H-ers get trained on how to help during natural disasters

In the past five years, Gordon County, Georgia, has dealt with its fair share of natural disasters. Tornadoes, winter weather, hurricanes, flooding and severe thunderstorms have all affected the county. In coping with these challenges, 4-H leaders with University of Georgia Extension realized an opportunity to train youth to be helpers when their community might need them during future [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities 2024, Emergency/Disaster Preparedness/Management/Recovery, Extension, Georgia, Southern, The University of Georgia, Youth Development/4-H

photo of two older adults using resistance bands for exercise

Supporting healthy aging through activity, social connectedness, positive outlook

The older adult population is growing more rapidly than other age groups in the United States. At the same time, aging stigma and lack of information on aging can affect health outcomes. Land-grant universities across the country have unique programming to aid healthy aging by promoting activity, social connectedness, positive outlook and more. Here are a few examples of that [...]

Nutrition and Health, Summary 2024, Child and Family Resilience, Colorado, Colorado State University, Community Development/Engagement, Extension, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, North Central, North Dakota, North Dakota State University, South Dakota, South Dakota State University, University of Wisconsin, Western, Wisconsin

grandfather and grandchildren watering a garden

Arkansas grandparents grow relationship with grandchildren through gardening

An increasing number of grandparents are raising their grandchildren. University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff’s Cooperative Extension Program is developing ways to support them and provide necessary resources. One way is by helping grandparents to grow their own food. The university’s School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences partnered with the Jefferson County Cooperative Extension Service and the Pine Bluff [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities 1890, 2024, Arkansas, Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Extension, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

photo of plates of healthy foods, including pita, veggies, salmon, chicken, and avocado toast

Improving gut health advances healthful outcomes

Probiotic bacteria have sparked considerable interest in both the food industry and among consumers, thanks to their potential to contribute to disease interventions and enhance human health. These microorganisms must navigate the challenging terrain of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract to exert their beneficial effects. Land-grant universities are discovering and sharing ways to improve probiotic absorption and gut health to [...]

Nutrition and Health, Summary 2024, Georgia, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, New Hampshire, Northeast, Research, Southern, The University of Georgia, University of New Hampshire

archery instructor shows young girls how to use a crossbow

Pueblo youths and families collaborate with Extension to build youth programs and opportunities

There are more than 30,000 youths and 4,000 volunteers active in the New Mexico State University Extension 4-H clubs. But reports are limited for Pueblo youth programs offered in New Mexico and volunteer participation is often low. Dedication and continuity of leadership is important for youth programs to grow and thrive. In response, NMSU Extension tribal agents conducted meetings with [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities 1994, 2024, Extension, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, Western, Youth Development/4-H

photo of a jar being removed from canning water by a pair of tongs

Holistic programs address community health

Obesity is on the rise in the United States, and this increases the risk of diabetes, hypertension and poor overall quality of life. Moreover, health disparities among low-income populations are well documented because food insecurity issues mean they lack nutritionally adequate and safe food. The Land-grant University System uses holistic programs to address community health. Here are a few examples [...]

Nutrition and Health, Summary 1890, 2024, Alabama, Alabama A&M University, Community Development/Engagement, Extension, Food Safety, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Louisiana, Louisiana State University, Puerto Rico, Southern, Texas, Texas A&M University, University of Puerto Rico

a woman checks her shopping cart at the grocery store

Helping immigrants shop smarter for food

New refugee families arriving in the United States face many challenges, including finding jobs, housing and adapting to their new community. They also need to learn how to navigate the aisles of a grocery store, prepare meals with foods that may be unfamiliar to them and stretch their food budget to feed their family. Making healthy food choices is [...]

Nutrition and Health, Story 2024, Child and Family Resilience, Extension, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Northeast, University of Vermont, Vermont

wildfire smoke above an Oregon forest

Efforts to effectively monitor air quality increase health awareness in Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge

Wildlife smoke has become an issue in Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge after two large wildfire events (in 2017 and 2020) led to record-shattering hazardous air quality index levels. In addition, cherry and pear orchard waste historically has been burned in the area, and no regulations exist on wood-burning stoves. Microscopic particles from smoke can penetrate deep into lungs, causing [...]

Nutrition and Health, Story 2024, Ecosystem Services, Emergency/Disaster Preparedness/Management/Recovery, Extension, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Oregon, Oregon State University, Western

covid virus

Researchers develop nasal COVID-19 vaccine in mice, hamsters

New variants cause increases in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. While the updated mRNA vaccines remain effective at preventing severe illness and death, they may not be as effective in reducing infection and transmission over time. To overcome this gap, the U.S. government initiative called Project NextGen seeks to develop an effective and safe nasal vaccine for controlling the spread [...]

Nutrition and Health, Story 2024, Emerging Infectious Diseases, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Maryland, Northeast, Research, University of Maryland

closeup photo of two people holding hands

Minnesota takes a community approach to opioid epidemic

Drug overdose deaths have increased drastically in Minnesota in the last few years, with greater Minnesota having a larger increase than the metro area for the first time in a decade. The increased use of fentanyl is a contributing factor in this surge. In response, University of Minnesota Extension and partners worked together to create C.O.P.E. (Community-based Opioid Prevention and [...]

Nutrition and Health, Story 1994, 2024, Child and Family Resilience, Extension, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Minnesota, North Central, University of Minnesota

a cup of soy milk and bowl of soybeans

Research shows enriching plant milk with algae fatty acids increases intake of nutrient

Fish oil contains two fatty acids, called Omega-3s, that provide health benefits including reducing the risk of cardiac death and lowering inflammation. However, a large portion of the population is not consuming the recommended amount of fish and its oil due to high cost, dietary restrictions, mercury levels, general dislike and other factors. Algae contains the same fatty acids, [...]

Nutrition and Health, Story 2024, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, North Central, Ohio, Research, The Ohio State University

map of gardens with points highlighted with carrot icons. there is also a photograph of a garden.

Edible garden tours encourage new gardeners

Idaho gardeners face unpredictable growing conditions and this can discourage those new to gardening or with limited experience. Gardening offers many benefits, including food security, personal empowerment, economic savings and physical activity. University of Idaho Extension organized a self-guided Edible Garden Tour with 13 experienced home gardeners to encourage and educate new gardeners. Each host garden was unique, from [...]

Nutrition and Health, Story 2024, Child and Family Resilience, Extension, Food Safety, Food Systems, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Idaho, University of Idaho, Urban Agriculture, Western

young boy bites into a piece of watermelon

Grow Getters instills early healthy habits

Good health in the early years leads to physical and cognitive development that enables youths to thrive and become healthy adults. Early care and education providers can teach healthy behaviors to young children if resources are available in a grab-and-go format. South Dakota State University Extension professionals created Grow Getters to provide nutrition and physical activities through garden concepts [...]

Nutrition and Health, Story 2024, Child and Family Resilience, Extension, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, North Central, South Dakota, South Dakota State University

black and white cow in a field

Research identifies antibiotic resistance markers that make meat and milk safer

The World Health Organization (WHO) named resistance to antimicrobials one of the top 10 global public health threats because it decreases the effectiveness of medicines and makes infections more difficult to treat. The degree of threat this poses to the food supply is still unclear. Researchers at Pennsylvania State University led an international team that found that dairy cows [...]

Nutrition and Health, Story 2024, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Food Safety, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, International/Global, Northeast, Pennsylvania, Research, The Pennsylvania State University, Water Resilience/Management

senior citizen does an exercise inside a greenhouse

An innovative program for preventing falls in older adults

Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries among older adults. Major risk factors for falls are inactivity, muscle weakness and balance issues. A program newly implemented by the North Dakota Extension Service seeks to improve strength, balance, mobility and daily function, reducing participants’ risk of falling, all while feeling more like recreation and less like traditional [...]

Nutrition and Health, Story 2024, Child and Family Resilience, Extension, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, North Central, North Dakota, North Dakota State University

Photo of blueberries, glucose monitor, cherries, dumbbell and tape measure

Diabetes education helps individuals, families manage chronic disease

Type 2 Diabetes is increasing at an epidemic rate in the U.S. This chronic disease requires daily management to control blood sugar levels and prevent life-changing complications. Many individuals and families struggle with diet modifications that would help manage health and also have limited access to nutrition and diabetes professionals. The Land-grant University System helps fill that gap, providing [...]

Nutrition and Health, Summary 1994, 2024, American Samoa, American Samoa Community College, Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Connecticut, Extension, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, Northeast, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, Southern, Texas, Texas A&M University, University of Connecticut, Western

photo of signage at the entrance of the Florence McClure Women's Correctional Center

Reducing recidivism and improving mental health

Experiencing hopelessness and struggling to manage weight can have detrimental mental effects on a woman, leading to unhealthy eating habits, the misuse of prescription medications and even resorting to drug use as a form of self-medication. Teen girls between the ages of 12 and 17 have a higher likelihood of reporting a substance use disorder within the past year [...]

Nutrition and Health, Story 2024, Extension, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Nevada, University of Nevada Reno, Western

spices on a spoon

Using unique flavors to boost health

Developing dietary interventions that help to reduce increasingly common chronic diseases is an important goal for researchers and Extension professionals across the Land-Grant University System. Sometimes it is as simple as using a familiar flavor in a new way to add health benefits. Here are a few examples of that work: Louisiana ranks among the highest states in adults diagnosed with [...]

Nutrition and Health, Summary 2024, Extension, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Louisiana, Louisiana State University, Northeast, Pennsylvania, Research, Southern, The Pennsylvania State University

a group of smiling participants in athletic clothing flex their arms

Strength training program builds health and resilience

Chronic disease and health disparities are increasing. Physical activity, particularly through strength training, is one way to counteract these negative outcomes. Strength training contributes to enhanced bone density, joint flexibility, metabolic function and improvements in daily living activities, in addition to building muscle strength. Less than 15% of residents age 65 and older get the recommended amounts of aerobic [...]

Nutrition and Health, Story 1994, 2024, Extension, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, North Central, University of Wisconsin, Wisconsin

a farmer standing in a field

Aiding farmers and rural residents with mental health struggles

Agricultural producers have one of the highest suicide rates of any industry in the nation but can be hesitant to seek help when struggling with their mental health or have limited access to mental healthcare. Land-grant institutions across the country have implemented programming targeting mental health concerns. Here are a few examples of that work: The Farmer Focus Project surveyed producers [...]

Nutrition and Health, Summary 2024, College of Micronesia, Community Development/Engagement, Extension, Guam, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Michigan, Michigan State University, Micronesia, Missouri, Montana, Montana State University, North Central, Northern Marianas, Northern Marianas College, University of Guam, University of Missouri, Washington, Washington State University, Western

brown chicken eggs in a carton

Improving safety of eating eggs through novel pathogen-killing method

Almost one in 10 cases of foodborne illness in the United States is associated with eggs. Americans eat, on average, 287 eggs per person annually. More than 14.1 billion eggs are incubated to produce chicks for the egg and poultry meat industries. Reducing the risk of disease-causing bacteria on eggshells is a priority for the industry, as is the [...]

Food Security, Story 2024, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Food Safety, Food Security, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Northeast, Pennsylvania, Research, The Pennsylvania State University