Extension News

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused stress and challenges for people across the world. As the new school year begins, emotions can run from excitement to fear and from relief to stress.

It can be a challenge to juggle responsibilities, schedules, meetings and events so the family can eat together each day. But research shows it is definitely worth the effort.

Due to COVID-19 and a higher demand for canning supplies this season, many people have found it difficult to find new boxed lids for canning. Here are some answers to our most frequently asked questions regarding the lid shortage.

The Tooele Rural Opioid Healthcare Consortium, a community-based network of providers, organizations and interested community members addressing the issues of opioids and overdose in Tooele County, sponsors Recovery Day on Saturday, September 26.

A farm shop is a permanent or semi-permanent structure where farm products from a specific farm or multiple farms, both fresh and processed (such as jams, honey and cheese), are offered for direct sale to consumers. Shops are normally open to the public y...

As impacts of the health pandemic continue throughout the state, the Miracle of Agriculture Foundation’s Farmers Feeding Utah campaign is launching its fourth “Miracle Project” to provide relief to farmers and families.

Winds, wildfires and flooding have been plentiful in Utah this month. Add in the pandemic, and feelings of anxiety and unrest can spike.

The recent wind storms have left many people without power. The potential loss of food in refrigerators and freezers is a cause for concern. Consider these tips.

In recent weeks, curious but misguided wildlife watchers in national parks have had unfortunate encounters with wildlife. In one case, the meeting resulted in someone taking a trip to the emergency room after an American bison took issue with being the ce...

Utah State University’s Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP), in conjunction with USU Extension, hosts the Fall Women’s Leadership Forum, “Exploring the Intersectionality of Race and Gender,” Friday, Sept. 18, from noon to 1:30 p.m. via Zoom.

A research study conducted by Utah State University’s Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP), in conjunction with USU Extension, reports that women hold 42.5% of leadership positions within county governments in Utah.

Fall is in the air, which may make you want to hang up the rake. Don’t give up just yet, though – you are coming in the home stretch. Consider these fall tips from the USU Extension Gardeners Almanac. Also included are links for further information.

Utah State University Extension recently received the Opioid Impacted Family Support Grant, a $2.3 million award for peer support training and apprenticeships to help reduce opioid harms on Utah's impacted families.

Utah State University Extension sponsors the Celebrating Women Conference Saturday, September 26, streamed live on Zoom. Designed as an event to promote wellness and balance in the lives of women, the conference features workshops presented by profession...

What have the last several months looked like for your family? Remote work, remote learning, teaching and tutoring children at home during the pandemic have, at times, tested both students and parents to their limits.

The term blended family highlights the unique challenge of finding acceptable ways to blend the lives, experiences, expectations and dreams of parents who remarry and the children involved. The ratio of people in the United States who live in blended fami...

We often label any weedy grass as crabgrass; however, not all of them are crabgrass. For example, if you have weedy grass growing in April and May, it is not crabgrass. Crabgrass seed germinates when soil temperatures are around 55 F, usually after forsyt...

It’s food preservation season – that much-anticipated time when home gardeners and farmers market enthusiasts get to preserve the harvest. While many people know and understand basic freezing and dehydrating methods for preserving foods, it becomes a diff...

What gives people a feeling of power? An anonymous author wrote, from least to most important: money, status and growing a tomato.

A new research study from Utah State University’s Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP), in conjunction with USU Extension, reports that state government leaders are implementing strategies to diversify gender leadership, but there are still opportunitie...

The heat is on, and yards and gardens are trying to keep up with the temperatures. Consider these tips from the USU Extension Gardeners Almanac to keep your garden thriving this month.

The Utah State University Extension Tribal Opioid Resource Center in Roosevelt announces the 2020 Intertribal Opioid Wellness Summit: Hope, Healing and Resiliency July 28 through 31.

Many landscape trees planted in Utah are highly susceptible to iron chlorosis, which is caused by a lack of available iron in the soil and results in the yellowing of plant leaves.

Summer is the perfect time to head outdoors, but more people camping, hiking and biking on public lands means more people who have to “go” in places without bathroom facilities.

In partnership with Utah State University Extension, Utah Farm Bureau announces its third Farmers Feeding Utah miracle project. The project will take place in West Salt Lake on July 27.

Utah State University Extension 4-H hosts a virtual summer camp focusing on mental health and well-being for youth. Camp Thrive is designed for youth who have completed grades 7 to 10.

It’s been four months since Utah public schools closed on March 16 and I’d like to take the time to explain a bit about how our food system was impacted by COVID-19 and why. For some of you, these impacts may be obvious, but certainly not to all.

Family vacations are a great time to bond as a family and get away from work and other responsibilities. However, this year it may be wiser to use vacation funds to pay off debt or add to that “rainy day” fund (which may have already come in handy this ye...

The Utah State University Jon M. Huntsman School of Business is now home to the Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP), formerly located at Utah Valley University.

Summertime is here, and after a long spring, many people are eager to get outside and socialize. Although there is no current evidence to support transmission of COVID-19 through food or food packaging, there are definite precautions to take when planning...

The Utah State University Health Extension: Advocacy, Research, & Teaching (HEART) Initiative has received multiple regional and national awards for its innovate approach to addressing the opioid epidemic.

It can be a challenge to keep gardens growing well as summer heats up, so Utah State University Extension’s Gardener’s Almanac provides a checklist of tasks to help your garden, grass and plants grow well in July.

Outdoor recreation in Utah contributes more than $13 billion to the economy, generates over $800 million in tax revenues and provides jobs for more than 100,000 people, according to data from the Outdoor Industry Association.

Only two days after making the first delivery of what will be more than 100,000 pounds of food to Utah’s Navajo neighbors, Farmers Feeding Utah is launching its second miracle project: Miracle Project Northern Utah.

Whether you plan to preserve your garden produce or hit the seasonal case lot sales, take stock of what is still in your freezer, pantry or food storage room.

Father’s Day gifts don’t have to be complicated or expensive. Simple but meaningful gift ideas that are easy on the budget and fun for kids often mean the most to fathers and grandfathers. Here are five frugal gift ideas for the father figure(s) in your l...

In order to learn more about Extension abroad and make connections with program administrators, practitioners and academics in the field, Utah State University Extension faculty members travelled to the Philippines earlier this spring to participate in

In today’s blog, I will discuss the state of consumer spending nationwide and in Utah, specifically related to food and markets of interest to you. I’ll also cover meat processing trends and agricultural labor issues.

Utah State University Extension’s Rural Online Initiative (ROI) program recently received two awards: the Innovation and Creativity Award from the National Association of Community Development Extension Professionals (NACDEP) and the 2020 Western Extensio...

Snakes are one of the slithery signs of late spring and summer. Of the 31 species found in Utah, seven are venomous. These are commonly called pit vipers because of the pit located between their nostrils and eyes.

Only two days after making the first delivery of what will be more than 100,000 pounds of food to Utah’s Navajo neighbors, with another delivery scheduled for Monday, Farmers Feeding Utah is launching its second miracle project: Miracle Project Northern U...

As the government encourages business openings, we must not end the preventative measures we each take to limit the spread of COVID-19. Unfortunately, behavior in communities since May 1 suggests that many think we are past the threat – fewer people are w...

As we continue to find ourselves in new territory with COVID-19, we face major changes to our routines – including parents having children at home while they work. While many parents have worked from home when their child was sick or out of school, the cu...

The relationships we have with others greatly impact our personal health, professional effectiveness and quality of life. HealthyRelationshipsUtah.org, a Utah State University Extension initiative, provides free, research-based relationship education cour...

In today’s blog, I will cover in more detail the impacts of COVID-19 on consumers and local food systems. While consumer spending in general is down nationwide (-20.5% through April 30, 2020) and in Utah (-17.5%), consumer spending on groceries

Determining when to plant a garden can be especially confusing in Utah’s unpredictable, varied climate where last-frost dates can vary by many days within just a few miles.

Today’s blog is the final in a four-part series on options and strategies for online direct sales of local farm products. In this edition, I will discuss online strategies for customer communication and relationship building.

The Utah State University Extension Davis County 4-H program is working to expand the classes and clubs available to youth ages 5 to 18, including offering online resources for families to complete at home during times of social distancing.

Mental wellness at work is an essential part of overall well-being that is often overlooked. Any job can be stressful, even if you love what you do. Some stress can be healthy, such as motivation to perform well, but long-term and unmanaged stress can be ...

Utah State University Extension has updated an online resource for future home buyers. Online Home Buyer Education is an online course designed to cover topics related to buying a home for the first time. The course is accepted nationwide and is one of on...

As a result of recent events, including the earthquake and coronavirus pandemic, more Utahns than ever are interested in growing and producing their own food. While this is a great opportunity to become sustainable, it should not happen at the cost of Uta...

Today’s blog is the third in a four-part series on options and strategies for online direct sales of local farm products. In this edition, I will discuss using social media such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, for local food sales and promotion. Your...

The Utah STEM Action Center recently funded two computer science grants for the Washington County School District. The grants run for 3 years and will fund afterschool 4-H computer science and robotics clubs as well as summer computer science camps.

As individuals and families come to Utah State University’s Student Nutrition Access Center (SNAC) to meet their food needs in the coming weeks, they will get to enjoy the fruits of the labors of other USU students and community volunteers.

April showers bring May flowers – as well as a wide array of gardening tasks. Utah State University Extension’s Gardener’s Almanac provides a checklist for each month as well as links for tips and further information. The May checklist follows.

Today’s blog is the second in a four-part series on options and strategies for online direct sales of local farm products. In this edition, I will focus on online stores, sometimes referred to as an online marketplace, online farmers’ market, farm stand, ...

Utah State University Extension 4-H youth have answered the call to help protect health care workers in rural Utah areas.

We’re trying to stay out of the grocery stores, but that means making the food you already have work for longer. With minimal tools and effort, you can keep your perishables around for longer.

Parents should remember that we are all born with at least three fundamental needs for surviving and thriving in life. They include: Safety, Satisfaction, and Connection.

Stress can be brought on by everyday hassles, but especially when there are larger issues like the ongoing public health concern of a pandemic.

The first in a four-part series on options and strategies for online direct sales of local farm products. In this edition, I will focus on more traditional “distanced” direct sales outlets and other “easy” online sales options. Specifically, community sup...

While most of us are familiar with self-care activities like eating healthy foods, exercising or managing stress, an often overlooked form of self-care is social connection.

Regardless of the type or location of employment, it is important to recognize that we all experience and contribute to the working environment, our own and often of our colleagues.

Studies show that adults need an average of 8 hours of sleep per night and teens need 9 to 10 hours of sleep per night. Unfortunately, as insomnia is on the rise a host of side complications are increasing in frequency such as depression, anxiety, weight ...

As we all know, food markets change rapidly as consumer preferences evolve and respond to new information, trends, and fads. However, due to the recent outbreak of COVID-19, food markets and supply chains are changing at an even faster rate, daily in some...

Calling all backyard gardeners, urban homesteaders, and hobby farmers! Do you want to step up your sustainability game? Interested in moving beyond tomatoes and peppers in your garden? Virtually attend the Urban Homestead Expo to learn from our experts.

Not surprisingly, scammers are taking advantage of the fears that surround the Coronavirus. In fact, the Federal Trade Commission has already communicated with several scammers who are selling phony Coronavirus “treatments.” Scammers have set up websites ...

In difficult economic times, many people consider purchasing chickens as part of their domestic safety net. Raising chickens, however, is distinctly different than stocking up on food storage or bottled water.

Practicing good hygiene, washing hands for at least 20 seconds, covering a cough or sneeze and avoiding contact with others are all important steps to help thwart the spread of coronavirus.

Currently, there is no evidence that the coronavirus spreads via foods. Instead, it is spread person-to-person. This includes spread via an infected person’s bodily fluids that are present in aerosols (coughs or sneezes) and on surfaces.

Utah State University Extension provides an array of research-backed online courses, many of which are free or offered at a discount, as a way to assist Utahns as they navigate the challenges of COVID-19.

Are you feeling afraid, nervous or anxious about the coronavirus and other catastrophes? If so, you are not alone. A threat such as this may only happen once in a lifetime, and we may not feel prepared to deal with it and the associated emotional impacts....

USU Extension Expert Callie Ward provides guidance on how to help children deal with a disaster which includes dealing with the Coronavirus and earthquakes.

With the recent earthquake near Salt Lake City, many people are wondering how they can be prepared if there are more to come. Aftershocks following the initial earthquake may occur for hours, days or even months.

While many are at home due to closures of Coronavirus, an extra load is placed on parents to help manage their home. Finding engaging and enriching activities can be a challenge. Thankfully, Discover 4-H curriculum began several years ago and has been dev...

Utah State University Extension provides research-backed information to help Utah residents as they maneuver the challenges this new virus brings.

Alfalfa weevil is one of the most damaging alfalfa pests across Utah. Some producers rely on "calendar spraying", or applying insecticides at the same time each year, to hopefully provide control.

The Utah State University Extension Health Extension: Advocacy, Research, & Teaching (HEART) Initiative, in partnership with USU Libraries, recently launched a digital library collection featuring stories from people affected by the opioid crisis.

David Schramm, family scholar at Utah State University, has never taken a business class, but he believes his findings from a recent study should be shared with business students and CEOs alike. Schramm, assistant professor and Extension family life spec...

A Facebook group moderated by Utah State University Extension and seeks to provide research-based information that is proven, useful, and effective. All home gardeners, orchardists, and commercial farmers welcome to join.

We are constantly bombarded with information on how to make our lives better through the latest fad diet or exercise regime – but what about improving our lives by better connecting with those closest to us? Research suggests that love and intimacy impact...

Though it’s February and relationships are on people’s minds, it doesn’t have to be Valentine’s Day to consider ways to strengthen your relationship with your partner. Consider these six tips that can keep the spark going all year.

A red fox pup was turned into a shelter by a family that had kept it in captivity. The fox became blind because it was not being fed properly. These are examples of people who attempted to make pets out of wildlife, and the unfortunate situations are not ...

A new series of fact sheets are available for hobbyist fruit tree growers. These fact sheets contain information regarding common diseases and insect pests in Utah and their management. Apricots, cherries, peaches, nectarines, apples, pears, and plums are...

There seems to be a shift in recent decades regarding family culture and expectations.

Utah State University Extension celebrates the importance of healthy relationships during January and February.

The Utah State University Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources Department and the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) host Utah’s first ever public hemp seminar.

According to the National Endowment for Financial Education, 2,000 adults surveyed said they believe having someone to account to who understands their financial goals would help them be more financially successful.

In general, there is a trend toward excess in our lives. We live in a world where both kids and adults have come to regard overload as normal, and anything less is boring. This time of year more than ever, the concepts of excess, over indulgence and over ...

Members of the Utah State University Extension 4-H youth program recently attended the National 4-H STEM Summit in Washington, D.C., where they participated in hands-on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics activities and taught workshops for ...

While holiday shoppers are searching for the best online deals, scammers and identity thieves are searching for their next victims, specifically online shoppers, who are in a hurry and fail to protect their personal information. You can prevent much heada...

David Schramm, Utah State University assistant professor and Extension family life specialist, recently received the Western Region Excellence in Extension Award for his commitment to programs in lifelong learning and contributions to improving communitie...

Although Thanksgiving is typically the kickoff to the holiday shopping season, more and more people are taking a different path. Rather than spending Black Friday in traffic, long lines or in a crowded store, many are choosing to forego the sales and head...

The Utah State University Extension Food $ense (SNAP-Ed) program has undergone a broadening of focus and a name change. The new name, Create Better Health, more fully reflects how the program has grown from a simple nutrition education program into a comp...

It’s no surprise that technology can have a negative impact on relationships. But David Schramm, Utah State University assistant professor and Extension family life specialist, is particularly interested in how technology interferes with two of the most i...

Utah State University Extension, Garfield County and Panguitch City recently received a grant from the Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Development to create a rural co-working and innovation center.

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and it’s time to talk turkey! Food-borne illnesses often rise during the holidays because of the increased number of turkeys prepared. If not handled, thawed and cooked properly, turkey and all poultry can carry Sal...

Youtube video that shows you how to roast vegetables.

In recent weeks, reports of cougar sightings have increased across Utah, including in urban areas. The cougar, Puma concolor, is known as the mountain lion, puma, screamer or panther.

Stress – we all have it, whether it’s at work, home or places in between. There are times when we feel especially stressed due to a bad interaction or everyday hassles like traffic. No one’s life is completely stress free, but regular negative stress can ...

Carving pumpkins into jack-o’-lanterns is an art form that comes in all shapes, sizes and levels of difficulty. The final product (usually) makes the pumpkin carver proud and anxious to display his or her work. However, often just a few days later, the ar...

Fall is officially here, and it’s time to put the yard and garden to bed. Here are tips from the USU Extension Gardeners Almanac to help.

Millions of dollars have been stolen from consumers through an email scam related to real estate transactions. Consumers are being tricked into wiring their real estate funds, including down payments and/or closing costs, into scammer’s accounts.

Are you among the minority of American families who eat at least one meal together every day? In today’s fast-paced world, eating Sunday dinner as a family is a great tradition, but it is a giant step away from more regular or daily time spent eating and ...

Wildfires, flashfloods and winds have been plentiful around Utah this year. Other parts of the nation and world face hurricanes, tropical storms and earthquakes. Watching the news and seeing others struggle, along with the unknown in our areas, can add to...

Fall is in the air, which may make you want to hang up the rake.

Many of the trees grown in our landscapes are not native to the Intermountain West. They have been transplanted (like many of us) and struggle to adapt to Utah’s arid climate.

Summer is winding down, and many children are hitting the books instead of the snooze button. In addition to encouraging children to stay organized and responsible with their time and activities, it is important to have conversations about social tips tha...

Utah State University Extension was recently awarded a $1 million grant for the Tribal and Rural Opioid Initiative from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).

The heat is on, and yards and gardens are trying to keep up with the temperatures. Consider these tips from the USU Extension Gardeners Almanac to keep your garden thriving this month. Also included are links for further information.

Utah State University Extension co-sponsors the Celebrating Women Conference held at the Weber State University Davis Campus Saturday, September 21, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

In order to better serve the agritourism industry in the state of Utah, Utah State University Extension has developed a survey to gather research on the needs of agritourism organizations.

Utah State University Extension recently received a grant for $175,000 for opioid prevention, treatment and recovery opportunities under USDA’s 2019 Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) Grant Program.

The Utah State University Extension Ogden Botanical Gardens will be a quarter of a century old this year, and a celebration will be held Aug. 1 at the gardens from 4 to 8 p.m.

A report released by the Utah Office of Outdoor Recreation touted that outdoor recreation in Utah contributes more than $12.3 billion to the economy and provides jobs from more than 100,000 people.

The Tribal and Rural Opioid Initiative (TROI) was launched by Utah State University Extension in 2018 to provide effective resources to address opioid use among rural Utahns.

How does your garden grow? It can be a challenge to keep it growing well as summer heats up. Utah State University Extension’s Gardener’s Almanac provides a checklist of tasks to help your garden, grass and plants grow well in July.

Caregivers for individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease or other forms of dementia often experience a range of challenging emotions and can become mentally, emotionally and physically fatigued.

Leaf diseases have become a concern this spring because of the cool, wet weather, and rain provides an efficient way for fungal and bacterial spores to spread. Fungal disease symptoms generally include irregular brown, yellow or black spots on leaves. If ...

Leaf diseases have become a concern this spring because of the cool, wet weather, and rain provides an efficient way for fungal and bacterial spores to spread.

The National 4-H Council recently announced a new $6 million collaboration with Google to bring computer science education to underserved youth across the country with a new Computer Science Pathway. Utah State University Extension’s 4-H program has been ...

A multi-generational agricultural family in Salt Lake County plans to donate 100 acres to Utah State University Extension for the creation of a center dedicated to agricultural land preservation.

For many, the sight of a snake is what nightmares are made of.

It has been said that June is the gateway to summer.

Utah State University Extension, in partnership with Latinos in Action, will host the second annual Leadership Boot Camp Conference for middle- and high school-aged student leaders on the Utah State University campus from June 4 to June 7.

Research continues to show that kindness is one of the most important qualities in marriage and parent-child relationships.

Color in the landscape adds visual appeal and seasonal splendor. Many homeowners try to select plants that will offer season-long interest, add consistency and tie the landscape design together.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, combined with a review of research and consultation with leading experts, found that financial well-being includes the following four elements:

Preliminary research conducted by Utah State University Extension professors shows that using electric pressure cookers for small batch, low acid canning may not destroy the bacteria that is responsible for botulism poisoning.

April showers bring May flowers – as well as a plethora of gardening tasks. Utah State University Extension’s Gardener’s Almanac provides a checklist for each month as well as links for tips and further information. The May checklist follows.

During the 2018 Utah General Legislative Session, H.B. 327 and H.B. 390, the Rural Online Initiative (ROI) and the Rural Economic Development Incentive (REDI) respectively, were signed into law by Gov. Gary R. Herbert, changing the landscape of rural econ...

Determining when to plant a garden can be especially confusing in Utah’s unpredictable, varied climate where last-frost dates can vary by many days within just a few miles. Many experienced gardeners have planted and later lost their plants to frost.

April is National Financial Literacy Month, established in 2003 to teach Americans the importance of creating and maintaining healthy financial habits.

Y of the STEM, a day-long event hosted by Utah State University Extension, will be held on April 12 at Red Mountain Elementary School in Ivins. Students from Red Mountain Elementary School and Lava Ridge Intermediate School will spend the day learning abo...

A team of teenage refugees from Cottonwood High School, including a number of Utah State University Extension 4-H members, competed at the Regional FIRST Robotics Competition and won in the Rookie Category. They will go on to compete at the FIRST World Ro...

In recent weeks, reports of an infectious disease in deer and elk, known as chronic wasting disease (CWD), have been confirmed in 24 states including Utah. The media has subsequently dubbed CWD as “zombie deer disease.”

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics designates March as National Nutrition Month. It is a great time to focus on the basics of a healthy diet and set goals to be healthier. It is important to keep in mind that a healthy lifestyle doesn’t happen overnig...

National Consumer Protection Week is March 3 - 9 and is a time to help people understand their consumer rights and make well-informed financial decisions. One important way to do this is to take steps to prevent identity theft.

The Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP), a nation-wide community nutrition education program, celebrates 50 years of operation this year.

Utah State University Extension Food $ense SNAP-Ed, a research-based program meant to help recipients of food stamps and other low-income Utahns prepare affordable and healthy meals, can be an important resource after the longest government shutdown in Am...

Stress is a universally experienced phenomenon. Although there are many causes, the methods of managing it are generally the same. Research from varying professionals helps explain how coping strategies work, broken into three categories – physical, menta...

Utah State University Extension co-sponsors the Northern Utah Marriage Celebration held at the Weber State University Shepherd Union Building Friday, Feb. 8, from 4 to 9:30 p.m.

Matt Yost, a Utah State University Extension specialist, recently received a New Innovator Award from the Foundation for Food and Agriculture. This award is designed to give early-career faculty members the investment needed to establish scientific resear...

It is easy to get caught up in the events of the past or the future. However, doing so only brings worry and causes you to miss out on the present. On the other hand, mindfulness – or focusing on the present moment – leads to better health, lower anxiety ...

(October to December 2018) During the 2018 Utah General Legislative Session, H.B. 327 and H.B. 390, the Rural Online Initiative (ROI) and the Rural Economic Development Incentive (REDI) respectively, were signed into law by Gov. Gary R. Herbert, changing ...

“Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.” The opening line of Charles Moore’s poem creates the impression of slumbering mice awaiting the arrival of Santa. In Anne Mortimer's book, “The C...

Utah State University Extension Hunger Solutions Institute, a project under the USU Food $ense (SNAP-Ed) program, recently hosted the Hunger Solutions Discussion, an event where diverse groups discussed hunger on college campuses and brainstormed to find ...

We all know it is easy to get carried away with “decking the halls” during the holidays, and the concepts of excess, over indulgence and over scheduling come to mind this time of year more than ever. In general, there is a trend toward excess in our lives...

Busy schedules and food-centered activities during the holidays can all add up to eating when you’re not hungry, making less nutritious food choices and overeating. It is important to pay attention to the process of eating. Be mindful of what and why you ...

Since the peak harvest season is October through December, cranberries are used most often during the holidays, and once purchased, fresh cranberries can be stored in the refrigerator crisper for up to 4 weeks. They also freeze well and will last almost

Utah State University Extension has named David Francis as the program’s new youth development director. Francis is currently Extension faculty with responsibilities for STEM. He has worked with Extension youth programs since 2001, where he began his care...

Utah Water Quality Task Force, a coalition of agencies, non-profit organizations and other experts, released a survey this week aimed at small acreage operations. Task force members request that those who own or manage a small acreage farm complete the su...

After all the planting, mowing, weeding and harvesting, many gardeners are looking forward to a winter reprieve. But before giving up, it’s important to finish the season strong by properly preparing your yard and garden for a long winter’s nap. Consider ...

Fall is in full swing, and pumpkins are everywhere. Pumpkin can be used for so much more than just carving, crafts or cookies. There are many ways to prepare it, and many people aren’t aware of the health benefits, which are an added bonus!

Utah State University Extension 4-H recently held their first-ever career readiness event, 4-H University. Youth who participate in 4-H from around the state came to the USU campus and the Logan area to explore postsecondary education and career options. ...

Being in love is exciting and wonderful, and for some people it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of romance. Many people spend more time planning for a wedding than they spend planning for a marriage. Before deciding to tie the knot, consider thes...

Colors are most vibrant when plants have had adequate moisture throughout the season followed by sunny autumn days and cool nighttime temperatures. With Utah’s extended dry summer, this year’s colors may not appear to be as bright as in previous years.

Utah State University Extension recently received two grants totaling over $1.4 million to fund projects focused on preventing and reducing opioid use disorder in rural areas.

Fall is in the air, and the leaves are changing. It will soon be time to put the lawn and garden to bed for the year. By investing time before winter takes over, you can ensure healthier and happier plants next spring. Consider these tips.

While Utahns deal with disasters such as fires and flooding, other parts of the nation and world face hurricanes, tropical storms and earthquakes. Seeing the misfortune of others on the news, along with the unknown of what to expect in the months ahead fo...

Utah is cougar country. The cougar, also known as the mountain lion, puma, catamount, screamer or panther, can be easily recognized by its tawny color, white muzzle and long tail.

David Schramm, Utah State University Extension family life specialist, said eating together can benefit all families, no matter how big or small. Newlywed couples, whose regular complaint is balancing jobs, school and togetherness time, can greatly benefi...

As many rural Utah residents are struggling with unemployment or underemployment, a new pilot program has been implemented by Utah State University Extension to help residents in the southern counties develop the skills needed to compete for remote employ...

Utah State University Extension sponsors farming workshops on the USU Logan campus. Speakers from academia, industry and federal agencies discuss business planning and resources, direct and target marketing strategies, federal grant and loan programs, sit...

Utah State University Extension co-sponsors the Celebrating Women Conference held at the Weber State University Davis Campus Saturday, September 22, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event promotes wellness and balance in the lives of women. Workshops include su...

Cities along the Wasatch Front have recently passed ordinances allowing urban residents to raise backyard chickens. A link was shown between an explosion in the rat population in Eugene, Oregon, and the growth in backyard chicken ranching. Over this same ...

The condition of the soil often dictates success or failure in the landscape. Before spending money on trees and plants, be sure your soil is suitable for planting.

A Utah State University Extension assistant professor and two teen council members recently attended the Well Being Legacy Convening, an exclusive gathering of top national, regional and community leaders who are working to improve their communities and p...

Director of Utah State University Extension 4-H Kevin Kesler was recently inducted into the Utah 4-H Hall of Fame as the 2018 honoree. Learn more about how the Utah 4-H Hall of Fame works.

Recent media reports of wildlife attacking humans have many people reconsidering their time spent outdoors. Negative interactions with wildlife are becoming more common as humans are increasingly recreating in animal territory, and it’s important to not l...

Grasshoppers are on the loose. The best time for controlling them is when they are young, before they have wings and can fly away from insecticide treatments. For best results, organize your neighborhood or local farming/ranching community to work togethe...

The average American throws away nearly 275 pounds of food each year. The USDA estimates between 30 to 40 percent of America’s food supply is wasted. Not only is good food wasted, but good money, too, equating to about $390 per year per person. Consider t...

Utah State University Extension recently launched a new program this spring – Health Extension: Advocacy, Research & Teaching (HEART). The program came about as a way to provide credible resources to help Utahns improve their health and wellness in multip...

With a drier and hotter start to summer this year, more snakes are following their prey into areas that are irrigated and provide good cover and food. Unfortunately, this describes many people’s yards, and for a lot of people, the sight of a snake strikes...

Senior citizens make up nearly 10 percent of Salt Lake's vast population. Many of these senior citizens are facing hunger issues that are almost impossible to believe. USU Extension gardeners are now coming their aid through their farmers market program....

Now that gardens are planted and fruit trees are showing signs of small fruit, many people begin planning how they will preserve the harvest. However, may ask if the efforts of growing produce and preserving are really worth it. Here are eight things to c...

Learn more about how to ready your yard for special events. Find information and resources such as, focus on the areas your guests will see and visit more, follow the same route your guest will take, and more.

Utah State University Extension in Cache County issues a fruit pest advisory for codling moth this weekend, June 1-3. It is important to know when and how to take action.

Container gardening has become popular as planting areas in the landscape have become smaller. Some containers are used to grow vegetables or specimen shrubs, while others display a beautiful splash of color. For thrilling container gardens, consider thes...

It’s spring, and the flowers are blooming, the grass is green and baby wildlife are out. Spring provides these young animals with favorable conditions and abundant food resources, increasing their chances of survival. Learn more about baby wildlife.

Determining when to plant a garden can be especially confusing in Utah’s unpredictable climate and frost. Garden expert, Taun Beddes, presents his tips to combating late frosts.

The large population of wild horses creates a challenge for the federal agencies charged with managing the natural ecological balance of Western rangelands. Learn more about the impact horses have on rangelands.

Utah State University Extension 4-H members will pick up wild yearling mustangs and wild burros to kick off the 2018 Wild Mustang Challenge on June 9.

Utah State University Extension 4-H youth will learn first hand about the lawmaking process in a mock legislative session at the Utah State Capitol building on April 17.

A growing body of research suggests that if we want to be happy and flourish in life and relationships, there are simple things we can do every day – happy hacks – that provide a boost to our brains and bodies.

After selling a tech company in Denver, he and his wife, Melissa, decided to semi retire by moving with their three sons to Garden City, Utah, to be near family.

Many Utahns are concerned that the unseasonably warm temperatures are causing confusion for our plants and trees. While there is concern about plants breaking dormancy and emerging too early, thus increasing their susceptibility to frost, most plants are ...

With a passion for academics as well as a desire to work directly with livestock and farmers, Justen Smith views his work with Extension as the best of both worlds.

Congratulations! You made it through the holiday season. As we are starting into the New Year, most of us have hit the reset button and have wellness on our minds. One of the things I hear most from people is how they need to cleanse from the holidays, so...

Kenadie Terry, a former Utah State University Extension 4-H member, will lead a coding event designed to teach young girls about computer programing through the Southern Utah University chapter of ACM-W, a women in computing club.

Utah State University Extension 4-H members and their families recently participated in a youth-led computer programming event at Google Fiber in Provo during Computer Science Education Week in December.

With snow blankets at higher evaluations, wild animals are on the move. Most of them cross our roads during their seasonal migrations as they search for food, water and cover.

Hala Louviere loves meeting new people, and the Utah State University Extension 4-H program allows her to do just that. Louviere has had the chance to make friends across the state and even the country through 4-H.

Utah State University Extension sponsors the Urban and Small Farms Conference February 21 to 23 at the Viridian Center in West Jordan.

The amount of sleep we need changes with age. Teens need 8-10 hours of sleep each night. Lack of proper sleep affects their growth, academic performance, mood and behavior. Adults 18-64 years of age require 7-9 hours of sleep. Sleep needs for older adults...

Date night for those who want to prepare or strengthen their marriage, the celebration workshops presented by professionals from Northern Utah, include the topics of intimacy, communication and staying connected.

he common buzzword today seems to be “mindfulness” – mindful eating, mindful exercise, mindful relationships, etc. The idea behind mindfulness is to be more aware. Mindfulness helps us develop attentiveness.

Poinsettias are native Mexican plants. They thrive during the holiday season because they are short-day plants that require long nights to launch their color change. The colorful bracts of these plants are leaves, not flowers, with the most common bract c...

The holiday season can be the most wonderful time of the year, but it’s important to keep safety in mind so you can avoid accidents and injuries.

Utah State University Extension 4-H in Washington County recently selected Coral Canyon Elementary School as its first STEM Partner School through a strategic evaluation process that considered the school's demographics, diversity and leadership aptitude ...

Utah State University Extension recently received a grant worth $599,615 from the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program to help increase the number of beginning farmers in the Mountain West.

On the first day of Christmas, your true love gives to you – a partridge in a pear tree. Great. Thanks. But who’s going to clean up after it?

Utah State University Extension hosts an Orchard Estate and Transition Planning Workshop Dec. 14 and 15 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Santaquin City Government Offices, 275 West Main Street in Santaquin.

As the holidays roll around, so does the challenge of juggling numerous things – from arranging airport schedules, to cooking the perfect meal and even planning for Black Friday shopping deals. But maybe it is time to take a step back.

The aromas of holiday foods often bring to mind the sweet memories of years past.

We all know it is easy to get a little carried away with “decking our halls,” and the concepts of excess, over indulgence and over scheduling come to mind during the holiday season more than ever. In general, however, there is a trend toward excess in our...

H.G. Wells’ 1898 novel, “The War of the Worlds,” provided the material for the infamous 1938 Halloween episode of the radio series, “The Mercury Theatre on the Air.” Orson Welles narrated an adaptation of the novel as a series of simulated news bulletins ...

In recent weeks, there have been a flood of calls and emails about mysterious divots and diggings in flower beds and lawns. Most look like a small hole or divot caused by an errant golfer.

Winter is just around the corner. After all of the relentless mowing, harvesting and canning, we can get a little burned out on yardwork. However, don’t give up yet. Fall is an important time to set the yard up for healthy plants next year.

The club, sponsored by the Utah Society Sons of the American Revolution, focuses on patriotism, education and history.

With the sobering news of recent natural disasters around the world, many people are wondering how they would respond during and after such traumatic events. What emergency preparations have you made? What would you do in a tornado? What would you do in a...

Utah State University Extension was recently chosen as one of five Extension programs to lead the rest of the country in a new community health initiative.

An open house celebrating the new Utah State University Extension Davis County office and expanded Kaysville Education Center is held on Thursday, Sept. 28, from 2 to 4 p.m. The public is invited to tour the new facility, and Aggie Ice Cream will be serve...

Utahns have had their share of fires and flooding in recent months.

September has been branded as National Family Meals Month. In recognition of its importance, Utah State University Extension’s Food $ense (SNAP-Ed) program provides information to help families make mealtime a priority along with tools to help overcome th...

Several Utah State University Extension faculty members were recognized by the National Association of County Agricultural Agents (NACAA) for their contributions to education and agriculture in Utah at recent meetings in Salt Lake City.

Utah State University Extension 4-H members have spent the last 3 months training 15 horses that will be available for adoption at the Utah State Fair on Sept. 9. Every year the Bureau of Land Management gathers wild horses and attempts to find them new h...

Google and the National 4-H Council are partnering on a new computer science and computational thinking initiative, with Utah State University Extension 4-H leading the way for the rest of the country.

After being displaced by a fire in early 2014, Utah State University Extension’s new Washington County offices will be located at the Washington County Legacy Park in Hurricane.

The more you know about the wildlife living in your area, their behaviors and how to respond to a close encounter, the better it will be for them and you. Consider these tips...

Fruits and vegetables are abundant this time of year, and now is a great time to preserve the harvest. One preservation method that is sometimes overlooked is freezing.

Summer heat can dampen the desire for extensive meal preparation. Luckily there are simple ways to make a tasty, healthy meal without heating up the kitchen.

The elm seed bug has been recognized as Utah’s newest pest.

The heat is on, and many lawns are struggling. Consider these suggestions for keeping your landscapes and gardens healthy while also saving water.

Perennial flowers can add color and variety to any yard and garden. Taun Beddes, USU Extension horticulturist, discusses his favorite perennials that have long blooming periods in this podcast.

Summer time is a great time for road trips. Become a road trip expert with the help of these 10 tips for healthy road trips.

Margie Memmott was named Extension Southern Region director and Justen Smith was named Northern Region director. Both have been serving as interim directors in these positions.

Farmers markets are known for offering an ever-changing variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Although variety is a benefit of shopping at local farmers markets, it can be difficult and overwhelming to come up with a menu for the week without knowing wh...

Utah State University Extension in Davis County has partnered with vocal coach Debra Bonner to offer two sessions of 4-H Youth Summer Gospel Choir Camps for youth ages nine to 18 years old.

Unseasonably warm temperatures this year have caused snakes to emerge early from hibernation. So be aware that just because you didn’t encounter a snake on your outdoor adventure last spring at this time doesn’t mean you won’t this spring.

Utah State University Extension’s Utah Master Naturalist Program provides nature lovers an opportunity to attend educational field courses.

Utah is home to five national parks – Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef and Zion – as well as many other amazing outdoor recreation destinations.

There are many financial professionals willing to answer money-related questions: Where should I invest?

It is finally time to plant flowers, and it is easy to default to annuals (plants that die at the end of the season) such as petunias and marigolds.

Trees are an integral part of landscaping, and it’s important to know the basics of starting them out right so they will flourish for many years to come.

With looming cold temperatures heading to Northern Utah this week, anxious gardeners are worried about their fruit trees and newly planted gardens.

Utah Water Week runs from May 7-13, and is a perfect time of year for each of us to consider the importance of water in our lives.

Diane Reese is the recipient of the E. G. Peterson Extension Award for 2017. Diane retires from USU Extension this year after 26 years of service. She has given her energy, passion and heart to USU through her many roles.

Utah State University Extension was recently named Best of State winner for adult education in Utah. The Best of State Awards recognize outstanding individuals, organizations and businesses in Utah.

Utah State University Extension recently released “Combinations for Conservation.” The landscaping book provides examples of plant combinations that have been successful in low-water gardens throughout the Intermountain West.

Determining when to plant a garden can be especially confusing in Utah’s unpredictable, varied climate where last-frost dates can vary by many days within just a few miles. Many experienced gardeners have planted and later lost their plants to frost.

It’s graduation time, and announcements will soon be arriving in mailboxes. Graduation often brings the question of what you can do for or give to graduates to help them take steps toward their future.

Grafting is the age-old practice of joining plants to specific root systems to get the desirable benefits of both parts. USU Extension provides several upcoming workshops to teach the science and techniques of grafting.

The National Institutes of Health, sponsors a program called “It’s a Noisy Planet – Protect Their Hearing.” This campaign battles noise-induced hearing loss, which occurs when tiny sensory cells in the inner ear are damaged by sounds that are too loud and...

Every year in the United States, it is estimated that nearly 600 million birds are killed from flying into windows. Some researchers say that number may be as high as 988 million, which is approximately 10 percent of the bird population in the country.

A ground-breaking ceremony celebrating the construction of the new Utah State University Extension and Distance Education building was held on March 22 at the USU Kaysville Education Building.

Utah State University Extension recently launched a series of online gardening courses designed for beginning and intermediate gardeners.

Utah State University Extension recently released “The Ultimate Gardening Guide,” a book that provides gardeners of all levels with research-backed answers to fruit and vegetable gardening questions.

Research published by Utah State University Extension specialists shows that the removal of invading conifer trees from sagebrush habitats could help boost success for nesting and brooding sage-grouse.

Tiffany Porter, learning coach at Crimson View Elementary School in the Washington County School District, has been chosen to receive the Utah Agriculture in the Classroom (Utah AITC) Excellence in Teaching About Agriculture Award.

Talking with a significant other about money-related decisions can be difficult. Financial experts suggest one reason we may struggle to communicate about money is that we are unaware ourselves of the underlying values and beliefs that inadvertently guide...

With heavy snowfall and recent warm temperatures, many Utahns have experienced flooding in their homes. Flood or drain backup water may contain sewage and unknown chemicals that can contaminate carpet and present a health hazard.

Utah State University Extension Washington County 4-H program recently received a $25,000 grant from the technology company Cognizant to purchase equipment and supplies for a new makerspace on the Dixie State University campus.

A Utah State University Extension 4-H member from St. George recently won the Zero Fatalities Teen Video Contest for his PSA about safe driving. The PSA aired during the Super Bowl in Utah on the Fox station.

A USU Extension 4-H club from Utah County competed in the 2016 Wonder League Robotics Competition and became the only team from Utah to qualify as finalists.

Utah State University Extension sponsors a workshop on beginning and small farm profitability strategies on February 10 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Eccles Conference Center on the USU Logan campus.

Often a new year brings resolutions to get healthy, eat better and lose weight.

Two Utah State University Extension 4-H members from St. George were recently recognized for their demonstrated interest and achievements in computing, proven leadership ability, academic performance and plans for post‑secondary education.

Designed as a date night for those who want to prepare for or strengthen their marriages, the celebration features workshops presented by professionals from Northern Utah.

Utah State University Extension 4-H sponsors cooking contests on Saturday, Jan. 28, for youth from Weber, Davis, Salt Lake and Utah counties.

Students in 11 elementary schools in Utah will have the opportunity to strengthen their understanding of where food comes from by participating in a hands-on school gardening program, thanks to a grant from Tractor Supply, the nation’s largest rural life...

Utah State University Extension Wildlife Specialist Terry Messmer is among the 2017 recipients of the Governor’s Medal for Excellence in Science and Technology. Also recognized this year from USU are Professors John Morrey and Debra Spielmaker.

USU Extension 4-H Teen Ambassadors from Utah County recently organized a service project to help refugees in their area.

What did you get for Christmas? This question is common for young and old alike. While it may be a way of showing genuine interest and sharing in the holiday excitement, it’s important to make sure gratitude for gifts and kindness is part of Christmas day...

Utah State University Extension 4-H sponsors cooking contests on Saturday, Jan. 28, for youth from Weber, Davis, Salt Lake and Utah counties.

Let’s take a closer look at buffets, whether at a restaurant or any type of gathering, and be aware of how to avoid becoming ill for the holidays. Following a few general tips should help keep you protected.

It can’t hurt to spend a little extra during the holidays because, “Tis the Season.” Right? Wrong…it can and does hurt. No matter how caught up in the spirit of Christmas you may get, being wise and careful is the name of the game to keep your finances in...

The average American will consume about 4,500 calories on Thanksgiving Day when the pre-meal party, the actual dinner and dessert, then evening leftovers are all taken into account. That is enough to gain a pound or two, which can be remedied, but how ma...

Dave Francis, a Utah State University Extension associate professor, was recently named an eXtension Fellow by the eXtension Foundation, a national organization that helps Extension professionals increase measurable local impact with networks, resources a...

There’s a new bug in town. Since July 2014, Utah State University Extension’s Utah Plant Pest Diagnostic Lab has received numerous calls about a small, brown and black insect gathering in and on homes.

In today's world, children are exposed to vast amounts of technology. An estimated 75 percent of teenagers own a cell phone, and, not surprisingly, social media sites are their favorite places to visit.

Terry Messmer, a Utah State University Extension wildlife specialist and professor in the Department of Wildland Resources, was recently honored with two awards from different national organizations recognizing the impacts made by his community and conser...

Utah State University Extension recently launched the National Pesticide Applicator Core Exam Preparation Course.

More than three centuries after the Salem witch trials, the unlikely culprit that many believe caused the mayhem has appeared again, this time in Utah.

An increased number of snakes have recently been reported in lawns, golf courses and city parks. Aside from callers being spooked by an unexpected encounter with a snake, they are also concerned about the snakes harming them, their children or taking up r...

With autumn here, it’s time to think about getting the yard ready for winter. Consider the following tasks that will help your yard be healthy and happy next spring.

When it comes to eating beets, it seems there are those who love them, those who strongly dislike them, and not many folks in between. If you are in the group of beet lovers, you probably already have a favorite way to prepare them and use them in side

The fear of not knowing what to do in the event of a disaster, how to gather and care for loved ones and how to survive until help arrives can be more traumatizing than the actual disaster.

Was it just a generation ago that the majority of American families ate at least one, if not two, meals together every day? In today’s fast-paced world, Sunday dinner as a family is a great tradition, but it is a giant step away from daily time spent eat...

Most nurseries and garden centers are holding fall sales to reduce plant inventory. The timing is right, because with cooler temperatures, now is a great time to plant. Many plants are available that will help create winter interest in the yard.

As the summer temperatures begin to fade into cooler days and evenings, rodents will be looking for warm places to sleep and create nests for their young. It is important to be proactive in finding the locations where these unwanted critters may try to

Teaching children how to handle money and make wise financial decisions takes preparation and planning, but it is well worth the investment in time and effort. Research from the National Endowment for Financial Education is showing a lack of financial sav...

The condition of the soil often dictates success or failure in the landscape. Before spending money on trees and plants, be sure your soil is suitable for planting. Consider these tips for dealing with four common soil problems.

How can you be sure the food you preserve at home and place on food storage shelves is safe for your family to eat? Consider these five tips when preserving food.

European earwigs are common in Utah and are easily recognized by the large pincers on the end of their bodies. The ideas that earwigs crawl into ears and that their pincers are dangerous are both false.

More than 300 youth participated in the Utah State University Extension 4-H State Contests held July 11 to 13 at the USU campus.

Utah State University Extension in Washington County and Outlier Magazine, an online publication for startup businesses and entrepreneurs, host Founders Weekend entrepreneurial conference Sept. 22-24 in St. George’s historic downtown Electric Theater.

In the wild, aspen are among the most beautiful trees with their almost snow-white trunks, shimmering leaves and yellow fall color.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is concerned about the amount of wasted food making its way from home garbage bins into landfills.

Michael Finnerty was recently named state director for the Utah Small Business Development Center (SBDC), which is hosted and located at Utah State University and operated through USU Extension.

Utah is home to 31 species of snakes. Of these, only seven are venomous and are commonly called pit vipers because of the pit located between their nostrils and eyes. Most pit vipers found in Utah have tails with a series of rattles, hence the name rattle...

Utah State University Extension 4-H Associate Professor Paul Hill

Utah State University Extension 4-H members from around the state recently congregated at Snow College for Junior Youth Conference (JYC), a three-day camp where youth focus on team building, learning activities and meeting new friends.

The Utah State University Extension 4-H program recently received the Community Contribution Award from the Utah Association for Gifted Children at their annual conference in Park City.

Approximately two-thirds of Utah’s drinking water is used to water lawns.

Youth from Cache, Washington, Utah and Salt Lake counties joined makers from all over the world to learn about electronics, physics, engineering, crafting and more through interactive displays and innovative demonstrations.

Temperatures will be climbing soon, and it’s important to select perennials now that require less water as the summer heat wears on.

The recent tragic loss of more than 550,000 acres of forest and thousands of homes in Fort McMurray, Alberta, Canada, brings into focus the hazards that come with wildfire and its suppression and the risks firefighters take to protect life and property.

Container gardening has become popular as planting areas in the landscape have become smaller. Some containers are used to grow vegetables or specimen shrubs, while others display a beautiful splash of color. For thrilling container gardens, consider thes...

Determining when to plant a garden can be especially confusing in Utah’s unpredictable, varied climate where last-frost dates can vary by many days within just a few miles. Many experienced gardeners have planted and later lost their plants to frost.

Utah State University Equine Extension hosts a horse grooming clinic featuring professional groomer Elena Nuila on Saturday, April 30, at the USU Livestock Pavilion.

Utah State University Extension 4-H recently hosted nearly 800 seventh grade students from the Cache County School District at the 4-H Healthy Living field trips held on the USU campus.

In a recent article, financial guru Dave Ramsey identified the Top 10 things Americans wasted money on. Learn how you can minimize your spending.

As the snow melts, it becomes obvious that field mice, or voles, have damaged many lawns and ornamentals.

Utah State University Extension 4-H youth will learn first-hand about the lawmaking process in a mock legislative session at the Utah State Capitol building on April 19.

Many foods freeze well and are great to have on hand for family meals. It may take a spring-cleaning event to get freezer compartments cleaned, organized and ready for more food, but it will be well worth the effort.

Leadermete is an educational conference for 4-H volunteers, staff and teens. It is designed to help 4-H volunteers and youth expand their knowledge and develop skills that can assist them in becoming engaged leaders in their clubs, their community, their ...

In order to increase community support for refugees, Utah State University Extension faculty and students conducted a research project last year that examined the needs of the refugee population in Utah.

Utah State University Equine Extension will host an intro to dressage clinic featuring Jan Lawrence, dressage instructor for Millbrook Farms, located in Fairfield, Utah, on April 9 at the USU Equestrian Center.

The Utah State Legislature made a powerful statement that water conservation is a high priority and a critical part of future water management and planning.

The Utah State University Extension office in Davis County will move to a new location within the next year, thanks to $1.2 million in funding from the Utah State Legislature at the recent legislative session.

As a result of the growing popularity of sustainability, the United States Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA NIFA) is providing $15,000 for the 2016 Extension Sustainability Summit April 5-7 in Portland, Ore.

The PrestidigiTaters 4-H club from Washington County received the INSPIRE award, the highest honor of the competition. The INSPIRE award is given to the team that communicates their experience, enthusiasm and knowledge to other teams, their communities an...

Green fruits and vegetables contain health-promoting phytochemicals such as lutein. There is also evidence that eating them on a regular basis can help protect against certain cancers, maintain healthy vision and promote strong bones and teeth.

Effective March 1, Sally Tauber, director of development at Utah State University’s Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter in Park City, will join the university’s Salt Lake City central advancement office to focus on corporate and foundational giving.

As tax return season is fast approaching, you may have money coming your way. If you choose to spend it online, consider these tips to keep your personal information safe.

Utah State University Extension 4-H youth from across the state recently travelled to Denver to compete in the 4-H Western National Roundup Conference.

Naomi Brower

Utah is home to three members of the deer family — mule deer, moose and elk.

Utah State University was recently selected by the Small Business Administration (SBA) to host the Utah Small Business Development Center (USBDC) Network. The new lead center will be located at the USU campus in Logan through USU Extension and will includ...

Many people miss having fresh garden produce in the winter so much that they are willing to grow it indoors. This can be a little challenging, but having fresh tomatoes on a sandwich or fresh peas on a winter salad makes it worth the effort.

Dallin Bunnell, a Utah State University Extension 4-H youth from Utah County, was recently selected to be part of the 2016 National Design Team for the National 4-H Congress. He is the first youth from Utah to be selected.

Research statistics on the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority’s (FINRA) website show that eight in 10 individuals have been solicited about potentially fraudulent investment offers.

Successful couples have learned to blend their money styles by being in harmony with the way they build a budget and spend money. So how do they do it?

Designed as a date night for those who want to prepare for or strengthen their marriage, the marriage celebration features workshops presented by professionals from Northern Utah. Workshops include such topics as intimacy, communication and staying connec...

Winter is here, and it is important to bundle up and be prepared for the cold weather. Your pipes are no different.

If you are looking for a useful gift for the gardeners on your shopping list, consider hand pruners or loppers. Hand pruners are similar to scissors, but are sturdier and are used to cut branches less than 1Ž2-inch thick.

Utah State University Extension Assistant Professor Paul Hill was named a recipient of the 2015 Governor’s Medals for Excellence in Science and Technology.

According to the National Headache Foundation, people complain of a greater incidence of tension-type headaches and migraines between Thanksgiving and New Year’s.

Utah State University Extension nutrition specialist and assistant professor of nutrition, dietetics and food sciences, Carrie Durward, was recently awarded $1 million for research on improving nutrition education for low-income families.

A team of Utah State University Extension professionals was recently honored with a national award for developing an outstanding financial management program that helps youth make decisions and plan for their present and future financial needs.

Utah State University Extension 4-H members from Cache, Wasatch and Utah counties recently attended the National Youth Maker Summit in Maryland, where they used their resourcefulness and creativity to build, invent and experiment.

Utah State University recently became the first college in Utah to join an initiative that unites universities to work toward increasing food security.

Utah State University Extension in Davis County was recently awarded a $315,700 federal grant to train adults so they can provide mental health support to youth through the Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) program.

Utah State University Extension sponsors a workshop on the food hub business model December 7 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Salt Lake County Extension Office building.

Christmas is just around the corner, but there is still time to plan for gift exchanges that won’t cause credit card debt to skyrocket. Consider implementing one, two or several of the following tips.

Utah State University was recently awarded a $7.6 million grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Family Assistance. The grant will be distributed over a five-year period and will fund relationship and fatherhood education p...

Thanksgiving Point, in partnership with Utah State University Extension, hosts the Make It SEW conference on November 13 and 14 at the Gardens Visitor Center in Lehi.

Spring-blooming bulbs are popular because of the beauty they add to the landscape and their ease of growing. Now is a good time to plant them, and many local retailers offer a wide variety.

Fall is in the air, and the leaves are changing. This time of year brings the tasks of putting the lawn and garden to bed for the year. By investing time before winter takes over, you can ensure healthier and happier plants next spring. Consider these tip...

Thanksgiving Point Institute in Lehi, in cooperation with Utah State University Extension, was recently awarded a $136,186

Money spent on food is probably one of the biggest expenses in a household budget—perhaps even larger than a mortgage, depending on family size. Combine money spent on groceries with money spent eating out, and that number gets even larger.

This year marks the 11th year of the Utah State University Extension 4-H Meat Donation Program, and to date, the program has brought in more than 1 million pounds of meat and food items to Utah Food Bank for families in need.

The Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper (QWEL) program is well on its way to reducing Utah’s water use even further as it partners with the Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense program.

Being in love is exciting and wonderful, and for some people it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of romance.

Food preservation questions arise every year as gardeners harvest produce and preserve it for food storage. In response to the most frequently asked questions, the National Center for Home Food Preservation (NCHFP) offers the following tips and advice.

September is National Preparedness Month, and for many people that means stocking up at the case lot sale, storing water and updating 72-hour kits.

Since everyone has to eat, meals are a great time for family members to converse and connect. Utah Governor Gary Herbert has declared September “Family Meal Month” in an effort to promote healthy family meals in Utah.

Members of the Utah State University Extension 4-H program recently participated in the National 4-H Partner Summit in order to showcase the work Utah 4-H is doing in computer science and technology development.

The average human body is made up of 65 percent water — an element essential for survival. Water is fundamental for daily life, and providing for water needs in the event of a disaster should be a number one priority.

After a long summer of growing and caring for a garden, the last thing gardeners want is to lose their plants to disease. Knowing the signs of common plant diseases and the steps to treat or prevent them is a valuable tool. Be aware of these common vegeta...

Children may not exactly beg parents to establish routines for school-day mornings, family meals or weekend chores, but every family needs a certain amount of structure to function well.

Several Utah State University Extension 4-H professionals are the recent recipients of two national awards from the National Association of Extension 4-H Agents.

Picnics and barbecues provide great outdoor opportunities for food, family, friends and fun. Consider these reminders to keep your guests safe.

Most people have never experienced having their very existence depend on the foods they could harvest from their gardens or farms.

Urban residents in Utah and other states are often waking up to the rasping calls and not-so-soothing coos of growing populations of feathered friends or in some cases, feathered fiends.

Having a green lawn this time of year is difficult! Here are 10 tips which will help your lawn stay green.

Large numbers of immature grasshoppers have been spotted in Utah this spring.

Summer time is a great time for road trips. With the help of these 10 tips for healthy road trips, your summer road trips will be the best one yet.

The Fair and Accurate Credit Transaction Act of 2004 allows you to get a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, TransUnion and Experian) once a year.

Seth Duffin, Thayne Williams, Noah Lorimer and Brandon Murphy explored and completed hands-on activities in areas ranging from arts and crafts to engineering. They were accompanied by advisors Joel Duffin, Matt Lorimer and Dallin Graham.

Taylor Boardman, a senior at Delta High School and a Utah State University Extension 4-H member, recently received the STEM Innovation Award from the Utah STEM Action Center for his accomplishments in technology and engineering.

Utah State University Extension partners with USDA to sponsor a workshop on farm shop business and marketing opportunities on June 19 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Clark County Cooperative Extension building in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Skylar Pond, an urban-community fishing pond in Willow Park, welcomed 44 new rainbow trout fingerlings on Monday as part of the Utah Trout in the Classroom program.

Storing food is a traditional, domestic skill that has been used for thousands of years in times of plenty to prepare for times of famine or when food is in short supply.

Water restrictions are in place in many cities in northern Utah, with more likely to follow. In most cases, though, landscapes and gardens can still be kept and enjoyed. Consider these suggestions for keeping your landscapes and gardens healthy while stil...

Jacob Jensen, Utah State University Extension 4-H ambassador and Salt Lake County resident spoke with President Barack Obama in the White House Oval Office. U.S.

Most retailers do their best to stock nurseries with locally adapted plants. However, it seems most carry a few plants that struggle in our climate. Here are some tips to get the right plants for our Utah climate.

Now that Spring is officially here, and weather is unseasonably warm, you may be tempted to start planting. Pay attention to these dates to avoid frost destroying your early attempts at gardening.

USU Extension is your source for yard and garden. Vegetables, fruit trees, etc. you're covered!

Governor Gary Herbert praised Utah State University efforts while signing an order to protect sage-grouse.

Getting in the habit of storing food has many benefits. These benefits range from financial savings to having a balanced diet throughout the year.

Highlights USU Extension's impacts of the Rural Online Initiative program.

As Utah State University celebrates its 2015 Year of Water, USU Extension water outreach efforts continue to meet the needs of citizens in every corner of the state.

In the United States, the 2017 fire season was the most expensive in history with costs exceeding $2 billion. Because of fire suppression activities and land use changes, many trees, such as pinyon-juniper, have expanded their range in Utah and as a resul...

The Small Business Development program was created to help increase the rates of new small business growth and decrease failure. Explore resources and information about the SBDC program.

The holidays are over, and you have a tired-looking poinsettia you are not sure what to do with. Be aware that your poinsettia can actually brighten your home for months to come with proper care and attention.

Want to save money? These 6 tips for saving money doesn’t require a major life change. These simple strategies successfully cut expenses and meet savings goals.

Now that school is out, many families are heading outdoors for recreation and activities. Whether in the water or hills, the ballfield or backyard, precautionary measures should be taken so kids and all family members are safe from sun, insects and injuri...

Winter weather can regularly create emergency situations such as massive power outages, dangerous road conditions or flooding across the nation.

Spring is a time of re-birth, baby animals, green grass, flowers and budding trees. It is a season of renewal. Historically, spring was the time homemakers cleaned the winter coal soot off the wall coverings and fixtures of their homes.

Before getting out your gardening gear, take stock of what is still in the freezer, pantry or food storage room – whether you participate in preserving garden produce or seasonal case lot sales.

Talking with a significant other about money-related decisions can be difficult. Financial experts suggest one reason we may struggle to communicate about money is that we are unaware ourselves of the underlying values and beliefs that inadvertently guide...

The recent frigid Arctic air encompassing much of the mid-west caused mass transit, businesses and schools to shut down. It also was responsible for several deaths. If you were caught in such adverse conditions, unable to leave home because of a snow/ic

It’s that time of year when family members travel from far and wide to gather, give thanks and eat a large meal together. Thanksgiving can be a wonderful time filled with traditions, famous family recipes and catching up with each other’s lives. However, ...

Many people have road trips on their agenda this summer. It’s not always easy to eat healthy foods while on the road, or on any vacation for that matter, but with a little planning and effort, it can be done.

It comes around every 10 years, and hard to believe it is time to participate in another U.S. Census. Below is information from the Federal Trade Commission, in partnership with the U.S. Census Bureau, about the facts and fiction on how the 2020 Census pr...

Highlights USU Extension's impacts of the Rural Online Initiative program.

Rural Online Initiative and Rural Economic Development Incentive BACKGROUND INFORMATION During the 2018 Utah General Legislative Session, H.B. 327 and H.B. 390, the Rural Online Initiative (ROI) and the Rural Economic Development Incentive (REDI) respecti...

Highlights USU Extension's impacts of the Create Better Health (SNAP-Ed) program.

The Utah State University Food $ense program, known nationally as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Educator (SNAP-Ed) assists thousands of Utah families each year in making healthy food choices on a limited budget.

We call ourselves Utah Pests, and we are willing to take on any pest problem, large or small. Utah Pests is a group of Extension entomologists and

Educating the public and landowners about biochar and its applications, improves the health of Utah’s forest, saves taxpayer money, and creates a valuable product, biochar.

Utah State University Extension offers green thumb enthusiasts a wealth of horticultural information from our gardening experts around the state. Explore more resources and information.

The USU Extension Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning (LAEP) program is truly unique and has significantly contributed to strengthening Utah’s communities for more than four decades.

To make 2019 a great new year, challenge yourself to try these simple lifestyle changes each month. Each aspect of sustainable living presented is not only good for the environment, but good for your health and wallet as well. Whether it is dusting off yo...

In a growing number of families, all adults in the household are employed outside the home. Balancing demands of work, family and the rest of life can be a challenge and can create stress. This can be especially true when trying to take advantage of summe...

According to Joe Robinson, author of “Work to Live; A Guide to Getting a Life,” taking a vacation is as important as watching your cholesterol or exercising. As we enter vacation season, here are some tips to help make vacationing a reality.

Firefighters are tasked with protecting the growing number of structures between wildland and urban environments. Property owners can assist firefighters and improve their safety by preparing their structures and landscaping for the possibility of a wildf...

As the holidays approach, fresh pomegranates become readily available. Pomegranates are found in most Utah grocery stores from October through December, and two varieties are grown in Washington County.

According to The National Retail Federation, American consumers spent $655.8 billion on the holidays (excluding automobiles, gasoline and restaurants) in 2016. Consumer spending is expected to increase by up to 4 percent this holiday season.

The holidays can be a magical time of year with great food, movies, traditions and decorations. But they are also a busy time that can cause stress. And when the kids are out of school, they can become tired, argumentative and overexcited, which in turn c...

It is estimated that each Thanksgiving, more than 46 million turkeys are prepared and eaten in the United States. Because of the number of turkeys prepared, the incidence of food-borne illness also increases during the holidays.

There has been extensive reporting in recent news about data breaches, cyber security, Social Security numbers stolen, identity theft, fraud, scams, credit monitoring services, credit reports, credit scores, etc.

It is estimated that each Thanksgiving, more than 46 million turkeys are prepared and eaten in the United States. Because of the number of turkeys prepared, food-borne illness also increases during the holidays.

The Tribal and Rural Opioid Initiative was launched by Utah State University Extension in 2018 in an effort to provide effective resources to address opioid use among rural Utahns.

If someone asks how you are doing, do you respond with the typical fine or pretty good? Or are you tempted to give a list of complaints?

April 17 is tax day for 2018, and even though it is almost 6 months away, you are nearly out of time to put important tax preparation measures into place.

It's not easy to find a balance between work, family and the rest of your lifes' worries and cares. Here are six tips from our expert, Naomi Brower, on finding a good balance in your life.