Economic Development Archives - Page 3 of 4 - Land-Grant Impacts

Topic

a ladybug

Land-grant universities offer solutions for pest management

Land-grant university pest management programs promote sustainable agriculture. In particular, research-based education helps farmers use pesticides more effectively and safely, improving pest control efficiency and reducing human and environmental exposure to chemicals that can pose health risks. Overall, these practices foster more sustainable farming, leading to healthier ecosystems and improved long-term agricultural productivity. Here are a few examples of that [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 2025, Crop Management, Delaware, Economic Development, Ecosystem Services, Extension, Food Security, Montana, Montana State University, Northeast, Pennsylvania, Pest Management, Research, Southern, Specialty Crops, Texas, Texas A&M University, The Pennsylvania State University, University of Delaware, Western

cows

Land-grant university research, outreach support beef production

The United States is the world’s top producer of beef, contributing to about 20% of the world’s production. In 2023, the U.S. beef industry had an estimated value of $102 billion. Land-grant universities are supporting the beef industry through research, Extension and education, ensuring producers remain economically viable and are able to safely meet changing market demands. Here are a [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 2025, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Economic Development, Extension, Food Security, Food Systems, Missouri, North Central, Northeast, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, Pennsylvania, Profitability/Competitiveness, Research, Southern, Texas, Texas A&M University, The Pennsylvania State University, University of Missouri, Workforce Development and Readiness

pumpkins in a tractor wagon

Research and Extension strengthens markets through technology, education

Preserving and strengthening markets is essential to the sustainability of the agricultural sector. Through technology and educational programs provided by land-grant universities, small agricultural businesses can identify new trends, develop risk management strategies and adopt new methods to ensure their businesses thrive. Here are a few examples of that work: Broadband plays a vital role in marketing businesses and facilitating commerce. [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 2025, Broadband Access/Digital Literacy, Community Development/Engagement, Crop Management, Delaware, Economic Development, Extension, Food Systems, Northeast, Pennsylvania, Precision Agriculture, Profitability/Competitiveness, Research, Rural Communities/Health, The Pennsylvania State University, University of Delaware, University of Vermont, Vermont

a person wearing PPE and looking at a device

Land-grant universities support the viability of livestock production

From teaching producers biosecurity techniques to keeping poultry cool in extreme temperatures to identifying genetic traits that will optimize production, land-grant university researchers and Extension professionals are supporting the viability of livestock production in the United States. Here are a few examples of that work: Researchers at land-grant universities nationwide are developing and using advanced technologies and data to improve poultry [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 2025, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Delaware, Economic Development, Emergency/Disaster Preparedness/Management/Recovery, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Extension, Fiber Systems, Food Security, Food Systems, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Indiana, Mississippi, Mississippi State University, North Central, Northeast, Profitability/Competitiveness, Purdue University, Research, Southern, University of Arkansas, University of Delaware, University of Wisconsin, University of Wyoming, Western, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Youth Development/4-H

students work on a plant-based science experiment

Recruiting the next generation of students to STEM careers

As the population grows, the demand for innovative, science-driven solutions in food production and resource management increases. Agricultural STEM careers will play a vital role in boosting global food security and economic development while sustaining natural resources. The 1890 land-grant universities are key in bridging the gap between high school students and these STEM careers. Here are a few examples [...]

Summary, Youth, Family, and Communities 1890, 2025, Alabama, Alabama A&M University, Arkansas, Community Development/Engagement, Economic Development, Extension, Fisheries/Aquaculture, North Carolina, North Carolina A&T State University, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), Tennessee, Tennessee State University, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H

a person in woodworking shop works at a laptop

Building stronger rural economies: The role of education & entrepreneurship

The Community Economic Development Program at the University of Wisconsin Extension launched research-driven programs to support entrepreneurs, community leaders, and stakeholders. The Wisconsin Rural Entrepreneurial Venture provided three years of coaching to rural communities, helping seven towns strengthen local business ecosystems. The Homegrown program assisted 60 community leaders in underserved areas with economic data analysis, support networks and business [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities 2025, Community Development/Engagement, Economic Development, Extension, North Central, Profitability/Competitiveness, Rural Communities/Health, University of Wisconsin, Wisconsin, Workforce Development and Readiness

smiling person in front of a food truck

FEED Initiative: Empowering Food Entrepreneurs in Wisconsin

Food entrepreneurship is a powerful tool for economic growth, but success requires navigating business planning, licensing and financial regulations. The Food Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Development (FEED) Initiative, led by the University of Wisconsin Extension, provides hands-on support to early-stage food businesses. In 2024, FEED connected with over 400 participants through a webinar series, an in-person summit and specialized workshops. The annual [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities 2025, Economic Development, Extension, Food Systems, North Central, University of Wisconsin, Wisconsin, Workforce Development and Readiness

dry, cracked soil

Helping farmers affected by natural disasters with their mental health resiliency and safety

Drought, flooding and fire risk increasingly impact the mental health and safety of farmers, who are already less likely to seek mental health support. Ensuring the well-being of food producers ensures sustainability and resilience of our agricultural sector. To address issues of drought and water scarcity affecting farmers’ mental health, Oregon State University Extension and community programs in southern Oregon [...]

Nutrition and Health, Story 2025, Crop Management, Economic Development, Emergency/Disaster Preparedness/Management/Recovery, Extension, Food Security, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, North Central, Oregon, Oregon State University, Public Health, Research, Rural Communities/Health, University of Wisconsin, Western, Wisconsin

a marshy landscape with mountains in the distance

Extension helps Nevada counties gather planning, economic data

When county governments in Nevada apply for grants, want to assess the potential impact of a new industry or respond to federal public land inquiries, they can turn to the Nevada Economic Assessment Project for in-depth, up-to-date data and analysis. Led by Extension professionals with the University of Nevada, the project collects and maintains baseline information on general demographic, social, economic, [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities 2025, Community Development/Engagement, Economic Development, Extension, Nevada, University of Nevada Reno, Western, Workforce Development and Readiness

youth learn about financial education in a fair setting

Empowering Arkansas families to make informed financial decisions

The Financial Capability Survey revealed that nearly 20% of Arkansans report spending more than their income, and 50% do not have an emergency savings fund. Additionally, 67% could not correctly answer more than three of five questions about financial management. Extension programs can enhance financial stability, reduce economic stress and contribute to stronger, more resilient communities. The University of Arkansas [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities 2025, Arkansas, Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Economic Development, Extension, Southern, University of Arkansas

honey sale sign at a farmers market

Developing new farmers, new products and new markets to boost agriculture sector

Many communities across the United States are seeing a decline in the agricultural workforce as experienced farmers retire. This issue has been exacerbated by national declines in new and beginning farmers. Land-grant universities are working to recruit and train new farmers, address their challenges and find ways to help them to thrive, including new crops and new marketing opportunities. [...]

Food Security, Summary 2025, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Alaska, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Community Development/Engagement, Economic Development, Extension, Food Security, Food Systems, Nevada, Northeast, Organic Agriculture, Profitability/Competitiveness, Southern, Specialty Crops, Texas, Texas A&M University, University of Alaska Fairbanks, University of Nevada Reno, University of Vermont, Vermont, Waste Management, Western, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H

Land-grant university research helps stakeholders lower costs with renewable energy solutions

Non-renewable energy sources are limited, and growing demand exacerbates pollution and health issues. Enhancing energy efficiency and developing renewable sources are crucial to meet demand, reduce costs, create jobs and boost rural prosperity. Reducing fossil fuel reliance improves national security and public health. Researchers and educators in the Land-grant University System are finding innovative ways to improve energy efficiency [...]

Energy and Bioproducts, Summary 2025, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Biofuels/Bioproducts, Cornell University, Economic Development, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Extension, Facilities/Infrastructure, Kentucky, New York, Northeast, Pennsylvania, Profitability/Competitiveness, Research, Rural Communities/Health, Southern, The Pennsylvania State University, University of Arkansas, University of Kentucky

tractor driving through a field

First local food summit energizes Kansas communities

Many communities across the state of Kansas are working to improve their local food systems. However, these efforts often lack cooperation or coordination with other local food programs across the state. The Kansas Local Food Summit was the first event in the state to bring these many groups together. Organized by the local food systems team at Kansas State University, [...]

Food Security, Story 2025, Community Development/Engagement, Economic Development, Extension, Food Security, Food Systems, Kansas, Kansas State University, North Central, Rural Communities/Health

two scientists smile next to samples of dairy byproducts

Upcycling a problematic food waste offers a safe food additive and new market for farmers

Acid whey, a byproduct of Greek yogurt, is a major contributor to food waste and can have a negative environmental impact if not properly managed. In recent years, the production of Greek yogurt and acid-coagulated cheeses has grown, but the acid whey waste that results is not easily disposable, causing challenges for water treatment and lowering oxygen levels in [...]

Food Security, Story 2025, Economic Development, Food Security, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Missouri, North Central, Research, University of Missouri, Waste Management, Water Resilience/Management

Supporting the next generation of ranchers in Texas

The Generation Next course led by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension gives new landowners (or those who expect to inherit land) the knowledge, skills and motivation they need to operate successful ranches and achieve their dreams. The 12-week, online course is taught twice per year covering topics that include understanding agricultural business taxes and insurance, finance tracking, evaluating land resources, land [...]

Environmental Stewardship, Story 2025, Community Development/Engagement, Economic Development, Extension, Profitability/Competitiveness, Rural Communities/Health, Soil Health, Southern, Texas, Texas A&M University, Workforce Development and Readiness

a farmer pulls a plant from the ground

Reducing barriers to success for new farmers

Beginning farmers face an increased need for educational support and networking to remain profitable. Land-grant universities are working to understand and meet these individual and community needs. Here are a few examples of that work: In Wisconsin, Extension partnered with 12 agricultural associations and community organizations to facilitate focus groups exploring needs of beginning and early career farmers. They introduced Extension [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 2025, Colorado, Colorado State University, Community Development/Engagement, Connecticut, Crop Management, Economic Development, Extension, Food Systems, Indiana, North Central, Northeast, Purdue University, University of Connecticut, University of Wisconsin, Western, Wisconsin, Workforce Development and Readiness

sheep in a field

Livestock education programs result in $1.5 million in savings

People need protein in their diet to maintain health. The Pennsylvania State University Livestock Extension team offered an array of educational programs to help beef cattle, goat, sheep and swine producers increase efficiency, profitability and produce a high-quality product. The team’s curriculum focused on basic production practices, reproduction, feeding, nutrition, health care, marketing practices and financial analysis. Online courses for [...]

Agricultural Systems, Story 2025, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Economic Development, Extension, Northeast, Pennsylvania, Profitability/Competitiveness, The Pennsylvania State University

wildfire in the mountains of Del Norte County, northern California

Timely wildfire loss data supports rapid recovery for residents, businesses in northern California

Starting on Aug. 15, 2023, the Smith River Complex fires burned almost 100,000 acres in Del Norte County in northern California. The lightning-sparked fires knocked out the main power line to the small, rural county. On average, residents and businesses were without power for six days. Property burned and food spoiled. To help the community recover some economic losses, University [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities 2024, California, Economic Development, Emergency/Disaster Preparedness/Management/Recovery, Extension, University of California, Western

young woman examines a plant in her garden

Historically Black land-grant universities reach diverse communities

In 1890, the Land-grant University System was expanded to include institutions for Black citizens. Today, these institutions continue to provide access to higher education for underserved communities, and their research and Extension programs impact people worldwide through advancements in agricultural productivity and sustainability, food security, human health, and community and youth development. Here are a few examples of that work: First-time [...]

Summary, Youth, Family, and Communities 1890, 2024, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Alabama, Alabama A&M University, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, Broadband Access/Digital Literacy, Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Crop Management, Economic Development, Extension, Fort Valley State University, Georgia, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Prairie View A&M University, Research, Texas, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Youth Development/4-H

a student writes in a notebook

Illinois Extension program prepares youths for the real world

Young people often don’t have a grasp of how much money it takes to cover necessities like food and bills. At a time when many Americans live paycheck to paycheck, money management strategies are more important than ever. The 4-H Welcome to the Real World program, offered through the University of Illinois Extension 4-H team, opens young people’s eyes to [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities 2024, Child and Family Resilience, Economic Development, Extension, Illinois, North Central, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Youth Development/4-H

two teens prepare food for a charcuterie board

Florida 4-H Extension leverages charcuterie trend to teach youths about food safety, financial planning

Charcuterie boards have been all the rage in recent years. These artfully arranged spreads of cured meals, cheeses, fruits and preserves combine creativity with delicious flavors. University of Florida 4-H Extension leaders have leveraged the charcuterie trend to teach youth about food and kitchen safety and financial planning, among other topics. A contest called Charcuterie Masters allows 4-H members to [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities 2024, Child and Family Resilience, Economic Development, Extension, Florida, Southern, University of Florida, Youth Development/4-H

closeup photo of hands chopping asparagus on a cutting board, in an industrial looking kitchen

Training the next generation of culinary professionals

The food industry can be a path to economic stability. But to ensure public health, workers must know about foodborne illness, how to prevent it and how to train other employees. Trained individuals can also explore nontraditional culinary paths, which can have benefits for the home and family. Here are a few examples how land-grant institutions are contributing: Michigan Extension trains [...]

Nutrition and Health, Summary 2024, Economic Development, Extension, Food Safety, Georgia, Louisiana, Louisiana State University, Michigan, Michigan State University, North Central, Southern, The University of Georgia, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H

house for rent sign

Improving housing security through renter education

Challenges with securing and maintaining housing underpin many societal challenges, and a lack of understanding about the issues and what can be done persists. To address this issue, University of Minnesota Extension provided renter education for individuals, community members and community organizations. Generally, community members had a low income, needed to build credit and rental histories, were new to [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities 2024, Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Economic Development, Extension, Minnesota, North Central, University of Minnesota

group of women talking

Extension boosts resilience in rural South Dakota communities

With the advancement of technology and a greater interest toward rural migration, rural communities have more opportunities to attract and capture new talent, entrepreneurs and working populations who can build local economies. For that reason, South Dakota State University Extension responded to the demographic changes happening in the rural Great Plains by creating Marketing Hometown America. This Extension-based program helps [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Economic Development, Extension, North Central, South Dakota, South Dakota State University

a man holding a wood pallet in a workshop

Nebraska eCommunities program boosts rural economies

In rural Nebraska, many communities have experienced population losses leading to a decline in economic activity. Since 2021, an Extension program from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln has offered support for business owners in 20 communities in 12 rural counties, helping them set and develop strategies for achieving their goals. The Nebraska Entrepreneurial Communities, or eCommunities, initiative sets up a steering [...]

Story, Youth, Family, and Communities Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Economic Development, Extension, Nebraska, North Central, University of Nebraska-Lincoln