Western

More than 1,200 Benton County students take part in 4-H outdoor learning series

Studies show that American youths today are more connected to screens than to the outdoors. Parents of children 8 to 12 years old report their children spend three times as many hours with computers and televisions each week...

May 2023 | Impact Story

Marion County youths experience nature through 4-H Outdoor Explorers

Research shows that people of color are far less likely to engage in nature-based outdoor recreation activities. Some researchers have theorized that this is due to socioeconomic status, cultural differences, racial discrimination and...

Apr 2023 | Impact Story

Healthy food and beverage choices on the menu in OSU Extension workshops

In fall of 2021, regional leadership at the Oregon Child Development Coalition (OCDC) contacted the Oregon State University Extension Service’s Supplemental Nutrition Education Program (SNAP-Ed) unit in Marion, Polk and Yamhill ...

Apr 2023 | Impact Story

OSU Extension newsletter helps mint growers save money on pest control

Oregon ranks second in the United States in mint production, with a value estimated worth $28.7 million in 2022. Losses from pests like mint root borer and variegated cutworm can eat into farmers’ profits. These two most ...

Apr 2023 | Impact Story

Cloverbud Explorers grow 4-H program in Linn County

Oregon State University Extension Service’s 4-H Cloverbud Program is an informal education program designed for youths ages 5-8. The program supports a child’s natural curiosity, enthusiasm for learning and high energy levels by ...

Apr 2023 | Impact Story

Eugene third graders learn about farming through field trips co-hosted by OSU Extension

Since it broke ground in 2016, the Bethel Farm in Eugene has grown into a working educational farm for students in the Bethel School District, traditionally through third grade field trips. Students at the neighboring Kalapuya ...

Apr 2023 | Impact Story

4-H gaming sessions help Oregon youths create connections with their peers

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many youths across Oregon searched for an opportunity to connect with their peers who have similar interests. Youths who are home-schooled, have social anxiety, and some youths who are neurodivergent, ...

Apr 2023 | Impact Story

OSU Extension microgreens gardening course reaches thousands of Oregonians

According to the latest National Gardening Association survey, about 55% of U.S. households had a garden in 2021. That number continues to grow with more than 18 million Americans starting the popular activity during the COVID-19...

Apr 2023 | Impact Story

Garden to Table reaches traditionally underserved Yamhill County residents

The number of Latinos in Yamhill County continues to grow, making up about 16% of the county’s population. However, Latinos, especially those in lower-income households, along with other underserved residents, have traditionally been...

Apr 2024 | Impact Story

Led by OSU Extension Fire Program, statewide campaign prepares Oregonians for wildfire

In addition to climate change and a century of vegetation buildup, people contribute to wildfires more than ever. This is especially true as they move into houses that were built next to forest and agricultural lands where ...

May 2022 | Impact Story