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Extension Holiday Card

Your Seasonal Update from UConn Extension

Happy holidays and warm wishes for a bright New Year from all of us at UConn Extension!

As we reflect on the past year, we are grateful for each person who has contributed to the success of our programs—participants, partners, volunteers, community members, and colleagues. Your dedication, curiosity, and support make our work stronger and more impactful.

Thank you for learning with us, collaborating with us, and helping us share research-based education and resources.

We’re energized for what lies ahead and look forward to working with you in the coming year.

Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a healthy, happy start to 2026!

orange chicken in a coup

Trending Fact Sheet: Permitting for Backyard Chickens

Backyard chicken keeping is growing in Connecticut as residents respond to concerns about egg prices, HPAI (bird flu), and a desire to support local food. Raising chickens also offers hands-on learning for youth and adults, boosts agricultural literacy, and helps build trust in our food system.

OurPermitting for Backyard Chickens fact sheet provides guidance for local decisions on permitting residential chicken coops and supports land use officials in considering backyard poultry from a One Health perspective—recognizing the connections between public, animal, and environmental health.

dinner table set for a holiday meal with candles in the middle

Eating Well on a Budget During Holiday Seasons

The holiday season brings family meals, celebrations, and special treats—but it can also mean rising food costs and challenges to healthy habits. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy nutritious, satisfying meals without stretching your budget.

Our Eating Well on a Budget During Holiday Seasons fact sheet offers smart shopping strategies, highlights nutrient-dense foods that deliver the best value, and shares tips for finding budget-friendly holiday food buys.

a wildfire in a forest

Helping Connecticut Prepare for Wildfires

Wildfire risk is rising in Connecticut, and Extension professionals and UConn researchers are helping the state prepare. The Wildland-Urban Interface Viewer maps where forests and homes intersect, identifying the areas most vulnerable to fire.

The project responds to a surge in regional wildfires and highlights how drought, pests, and development are increasing risk. This collaborative work offers communities data and tools to strengthen prevention, readiness, and resilience. Read the Helping CT Prepare for Wildfires article about the interface viewer.

girl holding a rabbit

Support UConn Extension: Make a Difference

Donations help us deliver high-quality programs that strengthen communities, support local economies, and promote lifelong learning. From residential well water testing to an upcoming diversified livestock conference, your contribution fuels meaningful change across Connecticut.

We invite you to join our community of supporters and invest in a brighter future. Whether you give once or become a recurring donor, your impact is felt in every corner of the state. Together, we can continue to grow and serve.

Help us make a difference.