What Extension Service Does

Exactly 100 years ago, the Smith- Lever Act created the Cooperative Extension Service as a unique educational entity meant to extend Land-Grant university research into the lives of Americans. But what does the Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service do?

Cooperative means that federal, state and county governments ( and local citizens through advisory committees) cooperate to plan, develop, and finance educational programs. Extension refers to the way that the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture extends its research information to residents across Arkansas. And, although Service is the last part of our name, serving Arkansans is the priority of the organization.

As the state’s Land Grant University, the University of Arkansas is the center of research in agriculture, home economics, rural development and youth development. Through a network of county agents, state specialists and program associates, technicians and assistants, the Cooperative Extension Service communicates practical university research information to the general public. Information is presented through classes, workshops, train-the trainer programs, online courses, demonstrations, field days, videos, computer programs, apps, a website, newsletters, publications, radio, television and newspapers.

Although some area residents may have been introduced to the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service through soil testing, 4-H youth programs or agricultural advice, most may not be aware of the full extent of educational programs and services offered here in Washington County.

For example, throughout the growing season, did you know that we have Master Gardener volunteers who answer all kinds of questions regarding the planning, growth, and care of gardens, lawns and landscapes. Or, did you know that you can bring your pressure cooker in to the county office to be tested? Programs and workshops are offered on topics that range from parenting skills to foods and nutrition, from financial management to composting, and food preservation to youth development.

In terms of agriculture, agents work with farmers, producers, agribusiness and families to address issues such as agricultural profitability, water quality, sustain- able agriculture, marketing strategies, solid waste management, integrated pest management, and pesticide applicator training as well as soil testing.

Family and consumer science programs focus on issues that affect Arkansas families including housing and energy costs, food safety and nutrition, parenting skills and child care and family financial management. Youth education and development have always been important components of what the Cooperative Extension Service has to offer. Currently, there are 22 4-H clubs throughout Washington County that help encourage youth ages 5-19 to acquire essential life skills through planned “learning by doing” experiences. The point is that the Cooperative Extension Service has a wealth of free information, services and programs that are available to the residents of Washington County through a quick phone call or a short stop in the County office.

The Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and is an Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer.

If you need a question answered, want more information about 4-H or Extension Homemaker Clubs, would like to participate in one of our educational programs, or just want to see what we’re all about, please call us at 444-1755 or stop by at 2536 N. McConnell Avenue in Fayetteville (just East of the Washington County Fairgrounds).