Extension Service

The Oregon State University Extension Service provides practical, research-based information and engages learners, partners, and volunteers in communities across Oregon to meet local challenges and help every Oregonian thrive.

Our programs, partnerships and volunteer opportunities are focused on:

  • Healthy communities and economies
  • Resilient and productive forestry and natural ecosystems
  • Sustainable agriculture, food systems, and gardening
  • Thriving youth, individuals and families

Inaugural Extension 4-H Questing Clovers Retreat promotes youth inclusivity

In an effort to serve youths from underserved populations with identities that intersect with “geek culture,” Oregon State University Extension Service 4-H in Marion County created the Questing Clovers Retreat, an inclusive ...

Apr 2024 | Impact Story

Extension collaboration helps develop first-of-its-kind stream assessment tool

Riparian areas – which are associated with streams, rivers, creeks and wetlands – support 80% of wildlife in arid rangelands but comprise only about 2% of sagebrush landscapes. In recent years natural resource professionals who...

Apr 2024 | Impact Story

Sea Grant Extension makes fishermen aware of gear that keeps seabirds from getting hooked on fishing lines

To catch black cod, halibut and other fish, some fishing boats set a long line of baited hooks on the seafloor. But seabirds, including the endangered short-tailed albatross, can get caught if they try to steal the bait ...

Apr 2024 | Impact Story

Extension research leads to change in the management of clover seed weevil

Clover seed weevil is a serious insect pest that impacts Willamette Valley's white clover seed production. Historically, clover seed growers have relied heavily on broad-spectrum pyrethroid insecticides, including bifenthrin, as a ...

Apr 2024 | Impact Story

Stinging nettle publication uplifts importance of Indigenous ‘superfood’

Stinging nettle is a plant that can sting and cause welts, but when the sting is removed a traditional “superfood” emerges. Native Indigenous peoples have gathered stinging nettles since time immemorial. They can be used ...

Mar 2024 | Impact Story

Innovative activity engages Josephine County students in pollinator education

In Josephine County and beyond, there is a growing concern about the declining population of pollinators, particularly bees, which play a crucial role in our ecosystem. The decline impacts our food supply and biodiversity. Many ...

Mar 2024 | Impact Story

Environmental Leadership for Youth introduces Indigenous and migrant students to science and college

Hispanic migrant and Indigenous students are underrepresented in natural science careers and higher education. To change this, Oregon Sea Grant helps organize annual summer camps that aim to pique these teens’ interest in the ...

Mar 2024 | Impact Story

Agriculture education program educates, empowers Indigenous youths

The average age of agricultural producers continues to rise in the United States, to 57.5 years according to the latest statistics. As they retire, there is a need for the next generation of producers to grow food, fuel and...

Mar 2024 | Impact Story

Extension research educates producers on leaf removal in Oregon vineyards

Wine grape vineyards are highly susceptible to powdery mildew and botrytis bunch rot, two fungal diseases that can destroy the grape crop and result in unsellable wine if not prevented and managed appropriately. One non-chemical ...

Mar 2024 | Impact Story

OSU Extension hemp web resources reach local, state, national and global audiences

The hemp industry is emerging not only in Oregon, but also across the United States and many parts of the world. However, there is a lack of information on hemp production methods, pest management, federal rules and ...

Mar 2024 | Impact Story