Extending the U

Taking knowledge beyond campus borders has been a vital part of the University of Minnesota's land-grant mission. The University established Agricultural Extension in 1909 after the Minnesota Legislature called for a division of agricultural extension and home education in the department of agriculture, with short courses, lectures, demonstrations, and free bulletins to improve agriculture and country life and to present the results of the University's agricultural experiments in plain and practical form. From the beginning, this work depended on many people, including agriculture and home economics specialists who assisted boys' and girls' clubs and lectured on livestock, agronomy, and horticulture, homemaking experts who worked with homemakers' clubs, and editors who prepared practical farm bulletins. By 1920, Extension had agents in all 87 Minnesota counties, making the state the University's largest classroom. It remained a reliable source of information and assistance during the Great Depression, World War II rationing shortages, the farm financial crises of the 1980s and 1990s, and many periods of drought and flooding. In the 21st century, University of Minnesota Extension focuses on agriculture, food, and environment; community vitality; natural resources and environment; youth development; and family development, with campus specialists and regional educators providing programs and information statewide.

Falcon Heights, Minnesota · United States