Polk

Revitalized Master Food Preserver training expands access

Interest in home food preservation has surged since the COVID-19 pandemic, with Oregon ranking ninth nationally for home canning–related Google searches. Yet many Oregonians struggle to find reliable, research-based information. Oregon ...

Mar 2024 | Impact Story

OSU tools help organic farmers improve nutrient management and cut costs

Applying nitrogen fertilizer is a balancing act for farmers. Too little can limit crop yields. Too much wastes money, increases pest risk, and harms water quality. For organic and sustainable farmers, managing nitrogen is ...

Mar 2024 | Impact Story

Collaborations build wildfire resilience through Home Ignition Zone education

Wildfires play an important ecological role, but when they threaten homes and infrastructure, the consequences can be severe. Research shows that building materials, home condition and the type of vegetation within the first 100 ...

Mar 2024 | Impact Story

Organic blueberry research reshapes industry practices worldwide

In 2006, organic blueberry production was a small but growing niche in Oregon — only about 2% of the state’s 4,400 acres were certified organic. Growers faced high input costs, uncertain yield potential, and a lack of ...

May 2023 | Impact Story

Bilingual SNAP-Ed training strengthens healthy eating practices in early childhood programs

In fall 2021, leadership at the Oregon Child Development Coalition (OCDC) identified a need to support healthy eating and positive mealtime environments across its early learning centers in Marion, Polk and Yamhill counties. They ...

Apr 2023 | Impact Story

Pandemic adaptation expands food safety training for Oregon’s farm workforce

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Oregon’s agricultural operations faced heightened pressure to maintain food safety while adjusting to evolving health regulations. As an essential industry, farms remained open, but the need to protect ...

Apr 2023 | Impact Story

Microgreens classes grow national reach through online lessons and community connection

The COVID-19 pandemic forced a shift in how Oregonians accessed gardening education. In response to restrictions on in-person programming, the Oregon State University Extension Service Master Gardener program began delivering presentations...

Apr 2023 | Impact Story