Western Archives - Page 5 of 6 - Land-Grant Impacts

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a group of training participants learn about fire safety

Promoting proactive wildfire mitigation

Many of the large wildfires that occur across Nevada each year happen in wildlands that are adjacent to communities, resulting in large-scale evacuations, substantial loss of property, extensive smoke inhalation and significant economic impacts on business and commerce. Wildfire preparedness education and the implementation of fire adapted community concepts can contribute to the long-term health of Nevada’s landscapes and [...]

Environmental Stewardship, Story 2025, Emergency/Disaster Preparedness/Management/Recovery, Extension, Forest Protection and Management, Nevada, University of Nevada Reno, Western, Workforce Development and Readiness

two scientists take samples from a tree

Research guides management decisions to protect Guam’s native forests

Guam’s limestone forests are being overtaken by an invasive overstory tree called Vitex parviflora, known commonly as the molave tree. Native to the Philippines, Vitex is now the most common invasive tree species in Guam. Because this tree tends to form a monoculture, it competes with the native species that are needed to balance and sustain Guam’s ecosystems. Clearing the [...]

Environmental Stewardship, Story 2025, Ecosystem Services, Forest Protection and Management, Guam, Invasive Species, Pest Management, Research, University of Guam, Western, Wildlife

3 scientists taking samples in a field

Extended-season cattle grazing reduces invasive grasses and wildfire risk in eastern Oregon

Wildfires have burned 2.5 million acres in eastern Oregon since 2010, devastating the natural landscape and negatively impacting rangelands essential to Oregon’s cattle and dairy industries. In this region, invasive grasses out-compete native plants and create a buildup of “fine fuels” that increase wildfire risks. To address this issue, an Oregon State University Extension Service specialist and associate professor in [...]

Environmental Stewardship, Story 2025, Ecosystem Services, Invasive Species, Oregon, Oregon State University, Profitability/Competitiveness, Western

cattle in a smoky wooded area

Wildfire smoke research provides insights to help ranchers protect their herds and reduce stress

Wildfires that scorched nearly 2 million acres in Eastern Oregon exposed many local cattle to significant levels of wildfire smoke. In the aftermath, cows across the state, on both dairy and beef operations, have been getting sick with symptoms like runny noses, runny eyes and severe discharge. An Oregon State University Extension Service beef specialist hypothesized that inhaling smoke dries [...]

Agricultural Systems, Story 2025, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Extension, Food Security, Oregon, Oregon State University, Profitability/Competitiveness, Research, Western

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

grapes in a vineyard

Leaf removal supports healthy wine grapes

Wine grape vineyards are vulnerable to fungal diseases that can ruin the grape crop and make the wine unsellable if not managed properly. As more wine producers move toward organic farming or using biodynamic methods, the fungicides producers can use are limited. One nonchemical way to reduce these diseases is to remove leaves in the cluster zone of the [...]

Agricultural Systems, Story 2025, Crop Management, Extension, Oregon, Oregon State University, Organic Agriculture, Specialty Crops, Western

aerial view of Mediterranean food

Mediterranean diet decreases medication needs

Chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, cancer and diabetes remain the leading causes of death and disability in New Mexico and across the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that six in 10 Americans live with at least one chronic disease, contributing to rising healthcare costs. Unhealthy diets, obesity and physical inactivity are key [...]

Nutrition and Health, Story 2025, Extension, Food Security, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, Western

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, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, 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

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 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, 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 and Readiness, 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 and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Connecticut, Extension, Food Security, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, 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

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

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 Nutrition/Health/Wellness, 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 and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Extension, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, 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, 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 Nutrition/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 Nutrition/Health/Wellness, 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 Nutrition/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 and Family Resilience, Extension, Food Safety, Food Systems, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, 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 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

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

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 Nutrition/Health/Wellness, 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

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 and Readiness

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, Crop Management, Fisheries/Aquaculture, Food Security, Georgia, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, 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, 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