Western – Land-Grant Impacts

Region

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, Diversity/Equity/Inclusion/Access (DEIA), Economic Development, Emergency/Disaster Preparedness/Management/Recovery, Extension, University of California, Western

young girl looks into a microscope

Strengthening communities by expanding access to education and resources

The Land-grant University System is helping make communities stronger by ensuring information and programs are accessible and beneficial to all. From making workplaces safer to bringing science education to new audiences to helping better connect residents with community resources, Extension professionals are keeping their mission to reach and serve all people top of mind. Here are a few examples of [...]

Summary, Youth, Family, and Communities 2024, American Samoa, American Samoa Community College, Community Development/Engagement, Connecticut, Diversity/Equity/Inclusion/Access (DEIA), Extension, Indiana, Mississippi, Mississippi State University, North Central, Northeast, Puerto Rico, Purdue University, Southern, University of Connecticut, University of Puerto Rico, University of Vermont, University of Wisconsin, Vermont, Western, Wisconsin, Workforce Development, Youth Development/4-H

Young child smiles holding vegetables

Strengthening Tribal communities through collaboration

Working with federally recognized Tribes, land-grant universities help provide evidence-based education and resources that represent the community’s history customs, governance system and food traditions. These programs promote and improve health, food security and sustainability for Tribal communities. Here are a few examples of that work: Representation and cultural relevancy for Tribal communities is critical for Extension outreach success. Health and nutrition [...]

Summary, Youth, Family, and Communities 1994, 2024, Broadband Access/Digital Literacy, Child/Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Connecticut, Extension, Food Security, Human Health/Wellness, Human Nutrition, Michigan, Michigan State University, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, North Central, Northeast, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, Southern, University of Connecticut, University of Wisconsin, Western, Wisconsin

Dark storm clouds brewing over a field

Monitoring climate change to reduce emissions and waste

Land-grant universities are working to provide critical data, tools and strategies to help predict, monitor and mitigate climate change and its impacts on communities and natural resources. Here are a few examples of that work: Dairy waste is a major source of methane and nitrous oxide emissions, which contribute to global warming. Scientists in Washington showed that vermifiltration (which uses filters [...]

Environmental Stewardship, Summary 1890, 1994, 2024, Animal Management/Performance/Welfare, Breeding/Genomics, Climate Resiliency, Ecosystem Services, Emergency/Disaster Preparedness/Management/Recovery, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, Northeast, Pennsylvania, Research, Soil Health, Tennessee, Tennessee State University, The Pennsylvania State University, Washington, Washington State University, Waste Management, Western

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/Family Resilience, Colorado, Colorado State University, Community Development/Engagement, Diversity/Equity/Inclusion/Access (DEIA), Extension, Human 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

two scientists analyze samples in a food lab

Understanding how natural chemicals in food affect health

The foods and drinks we consume contain natural chemicals like vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, toxicants and hormones that can positively or negatively impact human health. Since 1971, a multistate project has brought together researchers at 22 land-grant universities to research the effects of these dietary bioactive chemicals. Studies shed light on mechanisms involved in bioactivity and determined how agricultural practices [...]

Nutrition and Health, Summary 2024, Connecticut, Guam, Hawaiʻi, Human Health/Wellness, Human Nutrition, Indiana, Michigan, Michigan State University, Nebraska, New Jersey, North Central, Northeast, Oregon, Oregon State University, Purdue University, Research, Rutgers University, Southern, Tennessee, University of Connecticut, University of Guam, University of Hawaiʻi, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Tennessee, University of Wisconsin, Utah, Utah State University, Western, Wisconsin

closeup photo of hands in a meditative pose

Innovative approaches to mental well-being

The need to care for our mental well-being is more evident than ever, post-pandemic. More than half of Americans report COVID-19 has negatively impacted their mental health. Extension networks across the country are working to tackle this crisis, often employing new and innovative programming. Here are a few examples of that work: In Michigan, the Mental Health First Aid program trains [...]

Nutrition and Health, Summary 2024, Child/Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Extension, Human Health/Wellness, Human Nutrition, Michigan, Michigan State University, Montana, Montana State University, Nevada, North Central, University of Nevada Reno, Western

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, Diversity/Equity/Inclusion/Access (DEIA), Extension, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, Western, Youth Development/4-H

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 Health/Wellness, Nevada, University of Nevada Reno, Western

an adult shows a child how to cut vegetables on a cutting board

Pairing cooking and reading aids in healthy eating, literacy and school readiness for preschoolers

Poor academic skills in the early educational years place children at risk for school failure and dropout, delinquency and running away, as well as unemployment or underemployment in adulthood. School readiness is incredibly important to the elementary years. Yet nationally, teachers report more than one third of kindergartners are not ready for school. Children gain critical school readiness skills by [...]

Nutrition and Health, Story 2024, Extension, Human Health/Wellness, Human Nutrition, Nevada, University of Nevada Reno, Western, Youth Development/4-H

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 Health/Wellness, Oregon, Oregon State University, Western

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

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/Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Connecticut, Extension, Human Health/Wellness, Human Nutrition, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, Northeast, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, Southern, Texas, Texas A&M University, University of Connecticut, Western

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-FSM, Community Development/Engagement, Extension, Guam, Human 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

A hand holds carrots and a beet among a spread of other vegetables.

Getting more local, fresh produce into communities

Although fresh fruits and vegetables are key to health, difficulties abound in obtaining local produce. Land-grant institutions across the country work in a number of ways to promote growing produce as well as marketing and buying it locally. Here are a few examples of that work: In Georgia, the Fresh on DeK Mobile Farmers Market targets communities without access to a [...]

Nutrition and Health, Summary 2024, Community Development/Engagement, Cornell University, Extension, Food Security, Georgia, Human Health/Wellness, Human Nutrition, Idaho, Kansas, Kansas State University, Louisiana, Louisiana State University, New York, North Central, Northeast, Profitability/Competitiveness, South Dakota, South Dakota State University, Southern, The University of Georgia, University of Idaho, Urban Agriculture, Western

two people look in a box of food at a food pantry

Food security resources for local communities

Limited access to healthy food options can lead to problems such as poor health, chronic illness, child development and family instability. Food pantries can help people who lack adequate food resources access a range of products locally. By connecting food pantries with resources, land-grant universities are helping communities better serve those in need. Here are a few examples of that [...]

Food Security, Summary 2024, Child/Family Resilience, Colorado, Colorado State University, Community Development/Engagement, Cornell University, Extension, Human Health/Wellness, Human Nutrition, Illinois, Louisiana, Louisiana State University, Michigan, Michigan State University, Minnesota, New York, North Central, Northeast, Southern, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Minnesota, Western

cattle walking through a field

Rapid response to animal and food safety and security threats

When disasters happen, land-grant universities are partners with local communities in sharing resources and information, providing training, offering testing and technical assistance and collaborating on future research. Timely and coordinated response efforts support local communities and producers and ensure access to a safe food supply. Here are a few examples of that work: Extension educators in Oregon responded quickly to coordinate [...]

Food Security, Summary 2024, Animal Management/Performance/Welfare, Emerging Infectious Diseases, Extension, Food Safety, Food Security, Kansas, Kansas State University, Michigan, Michigan State University, North Central, Northeast, Oregon, Oregon State University, University of Vermont, Vermont, Western

the torso of a person checking something off on a clipboard

Research and education combine to fight food contamination

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control estimate that 48 million people become ill from foodborne illnesses annually, resulting in 3,000 deaths. Through research and education, land-grant institutions are working to reduce the pathogens contained in food and increase food security. Here are a few examples of that work: In Vermont, a certification program known as CAPS+ was developed to assure retailers [...]

Food Security, Summary 1890, 2024, Connecticut, Extension, Food Safety, Food Security, Food Systems, Indiana, Maryland, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, North Central, Northeast, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, Purdue University, Research, Southern, University of Connecticut, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, University of Vermont, Vermont, Western

a closeup of hands examining wheat

Strong farms strengthen local food systems

New farmers just starting out and established farmers looking to expand markets have something in common: looking to the Land-grant University System to support their growth. Strong local farms strengthen local food systems and food security. Here are a few examples of this work: When participant surveys indicated a need for more in-depth and hands-on farmer education, Idaho Extension educators responded [...]

Food Security, Summary 2024, Alaska, Economic Development, Extension, Food Security, Food Systems, Idaho, Kansas, Kansas State University, Michigan, Michigan State University, North Central, Northeast, Profitability/Competitiveness, University of Alaska Fairbanks, University of Idaho, University of Vermont, University of Wisconsin, Vermont, Western, Wisconsin, Workforce Development

an agricultural field

Increasing food security with better food products

Ensuring an adequate supply of safe and nutritious food requires improving existing food varieties and innovating to develop new ones. Here are a few examples of how land-grant universities are contributing: Researchers in Washington generated more than 25 unique lines of rainbow trout with many more in the pipeline. Using biotechnology, they are developing commercial trout lines with enhanced production and [...]

Food Security, Summary 2024, Arkansas, Climate Resiliency, Crop Management, Fisheries/Aquaculture, Food Security, Georgia, Human Nutrition, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, Research, Southern, Specialty Crops, The University of Georgia, University of Arkansas, Washington, Washington State University, Western

Aerial view of a field mapped out with drone technology

Emerging technologies aid conservation and management

Climate change and biodiversity losses pose extraordinary challenges for the sustainability of natural ecosystems and the species that inhabit them. Land-grant universities are developing and applying emerging technologies that can help to more efficiently, accurately and safely monitor, measure, and precisely manage these systems with minimal environmental impact. Here are a few examples of that work: In New Hampshire, researchers found [...]

Environmental Stewardship, Summary 1890, 2024, Arkansas, Climate Resiliency, Connecticut, Ecosystem Services, Extension, Florida, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, Northeast, Pennsylvania, Profitability/Competitiveness, Research, Southern, Tennessee, Tennessee State University, The Pennsylvania State University, University of Arkansas, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, University of Connecticut, University of Florida, University of New Hampshire, Washington, Washington State University, Western

a honeybee sits in the middle of a flower

Pollinators support agriculture profitability

Bees, flies, moths and other pollinators are essential to the environment. Pollinators improve the quality and quantity of farmers’ crop yields, which adds an estimated $18 billion in crop production revenue annually. Pollinators also support healthy ecosystems needed for clean air, stable soils and diverse wildlife. However, both wild and domesticated pollinators are at risk, most notably many wild [...]

Environmental Stewardship, Summary 2024, Arkansas, Climate Resiliency, Colorado, Colorado State University, Community Development/Engagement, Cornell University, Ecosystem Services, Extension, Food Security, Forestry, New York, Northeast, Pennsylvania, Research, Southern, The Pennsylvania State University, University of Arkansas, University of Vermont, Vermont, Western, Workforce Development

closeup of hands holding a pea seed packet. there is a bag of seed packets in the background.

Community gardens increase food security and community well-being

Based on the 2023 National Gardening Survey, 80% of American households participated in a gardening project in 2022. Through Extension trainings, seed libraries and gardening kits and the efforts of Extension Master Gardener volunteers, land-grant universities are increasing access to gardens, improving community well-being, and helping individuals learn to grow their own food. Here are a few examples of that [...]

Food Security, Summary 1994, 2024, Colorado, Colorado State University, Community Development/Engagement, Extension, Food Security, Georgia, Human Health/Wellness, Human Nutrition, Kansas, Kansas State University, Michigan, Michigan State University, Missouri, Montana, Montana State University, North Carolina, North Carolina State University, North Central, Northeast, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, South Dakota, South Dakota State University, Southern, The University of Georgia, University of Missouri, Urban Agriculture, West Virginia, West Virginia University, Western

drone flying over crop

Drones, virtual fencing, gene technology moving agriculture forward

Land-grant universities and state research agencies are using multiple technologies to solve production challenges and provide educational outreach. From using drones to assess damage following natural disasters to GPS tracking to monitor livestock within the boundaries of virtual fencing, advances in technology are helping propel food and fiber production. Successful examples include: Following Hurricane Idalia, a Category 3 hurricane, Extension educators [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 2024, Animal Management/Performance/Welfare, Breeding/Genomics, Emergency/Disaster Preparedness/Management/Recovery, Extension, Georgia, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, Northeast, Pennsylvania, Precision Agriculture, Research, Southern, The Pennsylvania State University, The University of Georgia, Western

a group of cows stands in a grassy area near some trees

Research, education improve livestock health

Livestock producers are continually searching for the best management strategies to protect animal health, which is essential to productivity and profitability as well as the animal’s well-being. Maintaining healthy animals also protects human health. Here are a few examples of how land-grant universities are contributing: When the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) threatened domestic poultry in Oregon, Extension responded rapidly with [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 2024, Animal Management/Performance/Welfare, Emerging Infectious Diseases, Extension, Food Safety, Idaho, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, North Central, Northeast, Ohio, Oregon, Oregon State University, Research, South Dakota, South Dakota State University, Southern, Texas, Texas A&M University, The Ohio State University, University of Idaho, University of Vermont, University of Wisconsin, Vermont, Western, Wisconsin, Workforce Development, Youth Development/4-H