At UConn, learning doesn’t stop at graduation, and neither does our commitment to the people of Connecticut. Through trusted, research‑based education, UConn Extension works alongside individuals, families, farms, businesses, and communities at every stage of life, helping them respond to challenges, seize opportunities, and build a stronger future. Across the state, Extension professionals translate university […]
Author: Stacey Stearns
Celebrating the Volunteers who Power UConn Extension
During Volunteer Appreciation Week, we are proud to celebrate the thousands of volunteers who make UConn Extension’s work possible. From supporting youth development and environmental stewardship to protecting local ecosystems and educating communities, Extension volunteers strengthen communities across Connecticut every day. UConn Extension’s programs, including UConn 4‑H, the UConn Extension Master Gardener Program, invasive species […]
May 21: Diversified Livestock Conference
Registration is now open for the Diversified Livestock Conference on May 21 in Vernon. Join producers, experts, and educators for a full day of learning and practical demonstrations. Learn more and register: s.uconn.edu/diversifiedlivestockconference Main Conference • 9am–3pm • Jake Levin, Berkshire Agricultural Ventures – Meat Processing • Indu Upadhyaya, UConn Extension – Small-Scale Poultry Production […]
Meet Mari Cullerton
Mari Cullerton recently joined our team as a research assistant in the Center for Land use Education and Research (CLEAR). She’s originally from Canaan, Connecticut and earned her bachelor of science in natural resources and environmental sciences from UConn, as well as her master of science, where she focused on remote sensing and GIS. What […]
Biosecurity Education to Safeguard Animals and Fairs and Events (BE SAFE)
By Sara Tomis Animal exhibitions and events, including agricultural fairs, create value for livestock owners and the public alike. The comingling of large numbers of people and animals during events, however, can increase the risk of zoonotic disease challenges. A zoonotic disease is caused by a germ that can be transmitted between people and animals. […]
Meet Jessica Goldman!
Meet Jessica Goldman! She recently joined our team as an educational program assistant in the Middlesex County Extension Center in Haddam. Jessica has degrees in psychology and community engagement and is from Newington. She is supporting the Center for Land Use Education and Research (CLEAR), Master Gardener, and 4-H programs in Middlesex County. What is […]
Growing Connections: Danbury Food Collaborative Visits UConn Extension
In September, UConn Extension’s Community Nutrition Program hosted the Danbury Food Collaborative for its monthly meeting at the Bethel Extension Office. The collaborative brings together food pantries and community organizations from across the greater Danbury area, rotating meeting locations each month to strengthen partnerships and share resources. This month, 16 local food pantries and organizations […]
How Urban Forestry Strengthens Our Communities – Voices for Change
Urban forestry is about more than planting trees—it’s about empowering people, improving neighborhoods, and creating long-term environmental and social benefits. In our new Voices for Change documentary, UConn Extension educator Mayra Rodriguez shares how communitydriven forestry initiatives help create healthier, more resilient urban spaces across Connecticut. Her story highlights the power of partnership, local leadership, […]
Bridging Science and Industry: Meet Sarah Bodenstein
Sarah Bodenstein joined UConn Extension a few months ago as the regional aquaculture liaison for Connecticut Sea Grant and NOAA’s Milford Lab. Though she has only been here a short time, Sarah has already begun connecting with Connecticut’s shellfish farmers and immersing herself in the traditions, history, and challenges of the aquaculture industry along Long Island Sound. Originally from Chicago, Sarah […]
From Fairways to Fields: Meet Maureen Kahiu
UConn Extension is thrilled to welcome Maureen Kahiu, who joined us in August 2025 as an Assistant Extension Educator of Turfgrass and Weed Ecology. In just a few months, Maureen has already started building connections across Connecticut’s turfgrass industry, helping professionals manage weeds and promote healthier, more resilient turf. Maureen grew up in Nairobi, Kenya, […]
Building Healthy Soils: Meet Dr. Avishesh Neupane
UConn Extension is pleased to introduce Dr. Avishesh Neupane, who joined us in August 2025 as Assistant Extension Professor and Director of the UConn Plant & Soil Health Center. In just a few months, Dr. Neupane has been busy connecting with growers, developing new decision tools, and preparing for the launch of the George Leigh […]
One Health Day
Today is One Health Day and we recognize the importance of our interconnectedness. UConn Extension uses the One Health framework to optimize the collective health of humans, animals, plants, and the environment. Our program helps community members understand and co-create community-based solutions to modern One Health challenges, such as disease that impact humans and animals, […]
World Food Day 2025: From Farm to Family — Strengthening Connecticut’s Food Systems and Community Health
Every year on October 16, World Food Day reminds us that food is more than a meal — it’s a story that begins in the soil and extends to every community table. At UConn Extension, we see that story every day. Our work starts with Connecticut’s farmers, supporting them with science-based research and resources that help them grow nutritious food, strengthen local economies, and […]
Livestock Breeder Directory
Help us build this resource: List your farm today on The Livestock Breeder Directory! Having trouble finding a producer with a certain breed or species you’re looking for? This new Livestock Breeder Directory is your resource for connecting with livestock producers and breeders across Connecticut. Whether you’re sourcing high-quality cattle, sheep, goats, swine, poultry, or camelids, this directory […]
Pollinator Conservation with Fairfield County Master Gardeners
By Sandi Wilson, Fairfield County Master Gardener Coordinator All across Fairfield County, UConn Master Gardeners are buzzing about the importance of pollinators and the need to protect and encourage them in our backyards and beyond. From giving talks on the importance of native pollinators at schools and libraries, designing and installing pollinator gardens, and encouraging […]
4-H Capitol Connections
By Matthew Syrotiak, UConn Extension UConn 4-H is cultivating the next generation of informed and engaged residents by introducing youth to civic engagement through hands-on experiences at the Connecticut State Capitol. One of the most impactful opportunities is Ag Day at the Capitol, where 4-H members meet with legislators, share their stories, and learn how public […]
Now is the Time: Hurricane Preparedness Checklist
Hurricane Gabrielle is making headlines — we all need to take a moment to ensure our homes, families, and plans are ready for this or any other extreme weather event. Here’s a checklist from our UConn Extension Disaster Education Network (EDEN) to help you prepare: Build or refresh your emergency supply kit: water (1 gal/person/day […]
Prioritizing Safety During National Farm Safety and Health Week
National Farm Safety and Health Week serves as an important reminder that safety on the farm is everyone’s responsibility. Harvest season, in particular, brings long days, heavy workloads, and extra hazards. Whether you are operating machinery in the fields, moving livestock, or sharing the road with farm equipment, it’s essential to take extra care. Have […]
4-H Celebrates National Farmers Market Week at Monroe Farmers Market
By Emily Picard With strong agricultural roots, UConn Extension and UConn 4-H Fairfield County made sure National Farmers Market Week (August 3–9) didn’t go unnoticed. This annual celebration highlights the essential role farmers’ markets play in strengthening communities, supporting local economies, and connecting residents with fresh, local food. The Monroe Farmers Market is more than […]
Fort Hill Farms: 2025 New England Green Pastures Award Winner
Fort Hill Farms in Thompson, Connecticut is the 2025 New England Green Pastures award winner for Connecticut. Led by Kies (Orr) and Jared LaVack, Fort Hill Farms exemplifies innovation, sustainability, and dedication to dairy excellence. As fourth-generation farmers, Kies and Jared have continued the Orr family legacy with a forward-thinking approach that blends tradition with […]
Solid Ground Offers Free Consultations for Farmers
Has this dryer season seen different disease and pest issues cropping up on the farm that you’re not sure what to do about? Are you curious about how to better utilize your small space into a productive farm business? Are you wondering if you could improve on your animal’s health by making some changes? Our […]
Save the Date: 7th Annual CT Trails Symposium
Save the date for the Connecticut Greenways Council’s 7th annual Connecticut Trail Symposium at Manchester Community College on October 3rd! The theme is Trail Community: breaking down barriers, enhancing accessibility, trail alliance development, mentorship, and more. Request for Proposals Open until September 1: If you have a topic of interest you’d like to present in a break-out presentation session or as […]
Applications Open for UConn’s 2026 Master Gardener Program
UConn Extension is now accepting applications for its 2026 Master Gardener Program, a comprehensive educational initiative that combines horticultural training with community service. Applications must be submitted by Friday, October 17, 2025, to the location where applicants wish to take classes—either a county Extension Center or the Bartlett Arboretum. The Litchfield County cohort offers a flexible option […]
Fresh, Local, and Thriving: Celebrate National Farmers Market Week with Us
From August 3–9, UConn Extension is proud to join communities across the country in celebrating National Farmers Market Week—a time to recognize the vital role that farmers markets play in supporting local agriculture, strengthening community connections, and increasing access to fresh, nutritious food. Connecticut is home to over 100 farmers markets, each one a vibrant hub […]
Preparing for Heavy Rain: What Residents and Farmers Can Do
Connecticut is expecting a significant rain event beginning Thursday afternoon and continuing into Friday morning. While this may lead to localized flooding, there are proactive steps you can take to protect your home, farm, and community. At UConn Extension, we believe in the power of preparation and community resilience. Here’s how you can get ready: […]
Full Circle at Fodor Farm
This summer, the Growing Gardens, Growing Health program welcomed back a familiar face – not as a participant, but as a dedicated summer Extension intern. Now a college student pursing a degree in Exercise Science, this young man first came to Fodor Farm as an eight-year–old, eager to dig his hands into the soil and […]
Why Supporting Local Agriculture Matters – and How You Can Get Involved
Connecticut and New England’s local farms and farmers markets are more than just places to buy fresh produce, they’re the backbone of a resilient, nutritious, and community-driven food system. Our farmers and farmers’ market organizers explain the impact of local agriculture and how you can be part of it, including through the Eastern States Exposition […]
Mosquito Season Alert: CT Horse & Livestock Owners Advised to Guard Against Mosquito-Borne Diseases
Preventative Measures are Key to Protection The Connecticut Department of Agriculture (CT DoAg) reminds the state’s horse and livestock community to take preventative measures to protect against mosquito-borne diseases this season, including West Nile virus (WNV) and eastern equine encephalitis (EEE). While Connecticut has not had any reported human or horse cases this season, the […]
Farm Biosecurity Tip: Write Out a Biosecurity Plan
Farm Biosecurity Tip: Write out a biosecurity plan. Thinking about biosecurity is a great first step–developing a well-thought-out plan is next. Make sure that all family members, employees, and other personnel that interact with animals on your operation know how to follow the biosecurity plan, and have the resources and training to do so. Review […]
Meet Giulia Gambale
Giulia Gambale recently joined our team as the Master Gardener Coordinator for New Haven County. She is originally from Peabody, Massachusetts, has a bachelor of arts in communication, and became a certified UConn Extension Master Gardener in 2023. What is your area of interest and how did you get started with it? Definitely vegetables, fruits […]
Farming is Hard. Really Hard.
By Jean Cardinale “Farming is hard work.” As a volunteer farmers’ market manager for 20 years, I said that phrase countless times. I knew from talking to farmers each season that they were dedicated to bringing their products to the public each week, no matter what challenges they faced, and that fueled my pursuit to […]
Level Up Your Life Skills with Breadwinner
Can You Be a Breadwinner? Find Out in This New Financial Literacy Game Balancing work, groceries, bills, and your family’s health is no easy task, especially when time and money are tight. Breadwinner, a free online game developed by UConn Extension, turns these real-world challenges into a fast-paced and engaging simulation for teens and young adults. […]
Staying Safe on the Farm: Heat, Fire, Machinery & Animal Care
Connecticut farmers work hard year-round, but summer brings risks that demand extra attention. At UConn Extension, we’re committed to helping you protect your family, farm crew, pets, and livestock from summer hazards. Working in Extreme Heat Human and animal health are both vulnerable to summer’s soaring temperatures. Heat stress can lead to serious illness in […]
Farm Biosecurity Tip: Follow Reporting Guidelines
Farm Biosecurity Tip: Follow reporting guidelines for sick and deceased animals. If you notice a wild animal that is exhibiting signs of illness (such as HPAI) or a group of deceased birds, report your observations to the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Wildlife Division. The Connecticut Department of Agriculture (DoAg) State Veterinarian […]
Online Gardening Course Available
UConn Extension is excited to announce that the Fundamentals of Home Gardening online course, designed to help gardening enthusiasts of all levels cultivate thriving home gardens, is available for home gardeners who want to expand their knowledge and skills. The course is divided into four modules covering essential gardening topics: CORE – Water, Soils, and […]
Hit the Trails and Earn Badges with CT Trail Finder
Connecticut’s trails just got even more rewarding! UConn Extension, in collaboration with CT Trail Finder and UConn CLEAR (Center for Land Use Education and Research), invites you to lace up your hiking boots, get outside, and earn digital Trail Badges for your adventures. The CT Trail Finder is a free, interactive mapping site that helps […]
Meet Rebecca Bleiman
Rebecca Bleiman recently joined our team as the Program Coordinator for the UConn Extension Master Gardeners in Lower Fairfield County at the Bartlett Arboretum in Stamford. Rebecca grew up in Princeton, New Jersey, graduated from Ithaca College, and completed the Master Gardener program in 2024. What is your area of interest? I retired from a […]
Defining Extension Programs at UConn: Smith-Lever Legislation
By Amy Harder, Associate Dean & Associate Director, UConn Extension Smith-Lever Funding UConn Extension provides nonformal education through the planning, implementation, and evaluation of programs intentionally designed to address critical issues relevant to the people of Connecticut. Critical issues are determined on a five-year basis and outlined in the University of Connecticut Research and Extension […]
Understanding Bird Flu: What You Need to Know
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly referred to as bird flu, is making headlines again as it affects poultry populations across the United States. Whether you’re a backyard poultry keeper, a commercial producer, or a consumer concerned about food safety, it’s important to understand how this virus spreads and what you can do to minimize […]
Get Trusted Answers from Local Experts with UConn Extension
Have you ever stood in your garden wondering what’s wrong with a plant—or looked at a canning recipe and felt unsure if it’s truly safe? Maybe you’re a new landowner trying to make environmentally sound decisions, or simply want to grow better agricultural crops this season. Whatever your question, UConn Extension is here to help—with […]