Preparing for Extreme Weather
As Connecticut experiences hotter temperatures, periods of drought, and the potential for intense storms, UConn Extension experts are encouraging residents to prepare before severe weather strikes. Weather patterns associated with El Niño can increase the likelihood of heat waves, flash flooding, power outages, and poor air quality, making preparedness more important than ever.
Extension experts recommend starting with simple steps:
- Identify trusted sources of weather information.
- Build or update emergency kits with water, food, medications, and flashlights.
- Create family communication plans.
- Prepare for power outages.
- Consider the needs of older adults, pets, and neighbors during emergencies.
Being prepared doesn't have to happen all at once. Small actions today can make a significant difference when severe weather occurs.
Preparing Connecticut for Wildfires
Connecticut may not be the first place that comes to mind when people think about wildfires, but recent years have demonstrated that the risk is real and growing. Following widespread brush fires and drought conditions across the state, UConn Fire Department Chief Christopher Renshaw and UConn Extension educator Emily Wilson collaborated to develop the CT Wildland-Urban Interface/Intermix Viewer, an innovative mapping tool that helps planners, firefighters, and residents better understand wildfire risk in their communities.
The tool highlights areas where homes, businesses, and infrastructure intersect with forests and natural vegetation, helping communities prepare for future fire events. Researchers note that Connecticut's changing climate, drought conditions, invasive pests, and increasing tree mortality are contributing to higher wildfire risk across the state. In fact, more than 70% of Connecticut falls within the wildland-urban interface, where developed areas meet natural landscapes.
Through research, mapping, and outreach, UConn is helping communities become more resilient and better equipped to prepare for and respond to future wildfire threats.
What's in Your Soil?
Healthy soil is the foundation of successful gardens, landscapes, and farms. UConn's Soil Nutrient Analysis Laboratory processes more than 14,000 samples annually, helping homeowners, businesses, municipalities, and agricultural producers better understand the health of their soils.
A soil test can reveal nutrient levels, pH, and recommendations for fertilizer and soil amendments. Rather than guessing what your plants need, soil testing provides science-based guidance that can improve plant health while protecting the environment.
Whether you're growing vegetables, maintaining a lawn, or managing agricultural land, soil testing is one of the most valuable investments you can make for long-term success. Soil test costs range from $7 for soil pH only up to $45 for a comprehensive standard nutrient analysis. The soil testing forms are available online and samples can be mailed or dropped off.
Exploring STEM Futures Through UConn 4-H
UConn 4-H continues to prepare young people for future careers through hands-on learning experiences. One exciting example is the Biotechnology Club, where youth explore genetics, laboratory techniques, scientific problem-solving, and emerging technologies.
The program complements classroom learning while helping participants develop critical thinking, teamwork, and communication skills. Through activities such as those found in Dr. Eugene's Biotech Lab and related educational experiences, youth gain exposure to STEM careers and develop confidence in their abilities.
By connecting scientific discovery with real-world applications, UConn 4-H is helping prepare Connecticut's future workforce.
Deep Roots: Growing Connecticut's History
A new initiative is helping connect Connecticut residents with one of the state's most treasured symbols. Through the Deep Roots project, descendants of the historic Charter Oak are being propagated and shared with communities throughout Connecticut as part of America 250 celebrations. The effort combines environmental stewardship, history, education, and community engagement.
The project highlights the importance of trees in our landscapes while creating opportunities for residents to connect with Connecticut's natural and cultural heritage. Community partners across the state will help steward the young trees and share their stories for generations to come.
Award-Winning Storytelling Connects Communities to Long Island Sound
UConn Extension and CLEAR are celebrating national recognition for Connections to Long Island Sound, an interactive ArcGIS StoryMap that recently received the Esri Living Atlas Innovation Award in the 2025 ArcGIS StoryMaps Competition.
Created by Cary Chadwick and Emily Wilson, the StoryMap uses maps, data, photographs, and community stories to help audiences better understand the people, places, and natural resources connected to Long Island Sound. The project demonstrates how geospatial storytelling can make complex environmental information more accessible and engaging for the public.
The international competition recognizes excellence in digital storytelling and innovative use of ArcGIS StoryMaps and Living Atlas data. The award highlights the impact of collaborative efforts to connect communities with environmental issues through interactive, data-driven experiences.
Congratulations to the project team, collaborators, advisory group members, and community partners whose contributions helped bring these stories to life.
4-H Fair Season is Here
Summer and early fall mean one thing for many Connecticut families: 4-H fair season.
Each year, Connecticut's 4-H fairs showcase the hard work, leadership, and accomplishments of hundreds of young people from across the state. Visitors can explore livestock exhibits, STEM projects, arts and crafts, public speaking demonstrations, educational displays, and much more. These events celebrate months of learning while providing valuable opportunities for youth to develop confidence and life skills.
Bring the family and support Connecticut's next generation of leaders.