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Extension
TRENDS 2020
A Message from the Director University of Idaho Extension provides research-based educational programming to the people of Idaho from offices in 42 counties, three federally recognized reservations, and 9 Research and Extension Centers located throughout the state. Agricultural education, which is critical to our state’s economy, is delivered from all locations. Idaho Master Gardener, horticulture and small acreage education can be found in 35 counties. Eat Smart Idaho health and nutrition education is available in 23 counties. And all 44 counties are engaged with our 4-H youth development program, as we are committed to growing the next generation of Idahoans. UI Extension faculty evaluate their educational programs to determine how we are contributing to improving the lives of individuals, businesses and communities. Below are a few examples of the economic impacts, knowledge gained, and behavior or conditions changed as a result of the programs we offered in 2020. Bull Evaluation and Selection: UI Extension reduced the incidence of rejected bulls on the Fort Hall Reservation by 75%, saving producers a total of $18,000/year in bull replacements. Pesticide Safety Education: 146 participants received 438 pesticide recertification credits from UI Extension. The Idaho Water Users Association reported an estimated savings of $20,000 by 85 participants on pesticide, water quality and other costs. PNWPest Alert Network: Using information provided by UI Extension on the PNWPest Alert Network, 1,188 producers saved $4,633/farm in pesticide costs. Farm Stress Management: UI Extension workshops provided 300 participants with skills to reduce stress and prevent suicide. In addition, a Suicide Awareness and Prevention Team was formed, and 16 UI Extension professionals were trained in Mental Health First Aid with support from private foundations.
Barbara Petty Director, University of Idaho Extension
Eastern Idaho Forage Schools: UI Extension forage schools helped 80 producers save an average of $20/ acre in forage production costs. Artisan Trails of Northcentral Idaho and Southeastern Washington: Two Degrees Northwest is a collaborative effort focused on improving the economic vitality of art, food and heritage businesses. In 2020, 80 new business participated in the 2DNW Artisan Trail Guide. Eat Smart Idaho: UI Extension’s Eat Smart Program worked with 345 community partners and delivered 1,228 classes in 2020. A total of 434 participants saved $12.40/month per person in their food dollars and 83% improved their diet quality (eating fruits and vegetables). Diabetes Prevention Program: The UI Extension Diabetes Prevention Program helped 100 people save $1,500/person by implementing prevention skills in their diet. In New Plymouth, 12 people lost a total of 94.6 pounds and reduced their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by 58%. Water Efficient Landscape Series: This class helped 20 people reduce the use of 100 gallons of landscape irrigation water per home. Idaho Drought Severity Assessment: Producers in 25 Idaho counties became eligible to receive federal disaster assistance through a UI Extension drought assessment. As I reflect back on the year 2020, I am filled with gratitude to University of Idaho Extension professionals who discovered new ways to fulfill our mission of providing research-based information to meet the needs of Idahoans and beyond. We accepted the challenges head-on, and in the midst of it all, we found many silver linings in the Gem State. We sincerely appreciate our relationships with you, the people of Idaho and all our stakeholders. Working together, we can build a thriving, prosperous, healthy Idaho.
UIBYExtension THE NUMBERS
FUNDING BREAKDOWN Federal: $3,045,081 State: $12,737,309 County: $5,439,219 Grants: $4,768,420
51,846 1,000 Participants in 4-H Youth Programming.
59%
of E. coli exceedances in Mink Creek were attributed to humans by a UI Extension study.
3
new emergency food distribution points were established in Moscow by UI Extension.
6,500
pounds of fresh produce was distributed to 300 citizens by the Gooding Community Garden.
new community leaders helped rural Idaho identify assets, strengths and future plans.
GEER Fund: $577,073
2020 EXTENSION FACTS 90 UI Extension Educators 36 UI Extension Specialists 217,279 Face-to-Face Interactions 236,204,222 Indirect Contacts 68 Peer-reviewed Publications
582
people saved $98/ person by applying sustainable horticulture practices taught by Idaho Master Gardeners.
1,867 small farmers, ranchers and business owners received direct COVID-19 support from UI Extension to evolve their businesses during the pandemic.
108 Professional and Scientific Journal Articles
UI EXTENSION ADVISORY COUNCIL • • • • • • • • • • •
Mary Schmidt Russ Zenner Caroline Troy Sherm Takatori Claudia Espinosa Ramos Clark Kauffman Arlene Shaw Cathy Roemer Arnold Callison Joy Boyle Will Ricks
EXTENSION TRENDS: ADA COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Ada County • www.uidaho.edu/ada • 208-287-5900
2020 Impact
Educator Andrew Bingham adapted retirement planning, complete with forecasting tools, to an online platform. These classes included a discussion on Social Security benefits, the cost of retirement, and spreadsheets to aide participants in their decision-making process. The impact for these tools can range from $0 to $100,000 over the course of an individual or couple's retirement depending on their circumstances.
2020 By the Numbers • 19,541 direct contacts • 7,510 youth participants • 355 volunteers • 11,115 volunteer hours • $68,242 extramural funding
UI Extension Educators Ariel Agenbroad ariel@uidaho.edu Community Food Systems & Small Farms Susan Bell sbell@uidaho.edu Horticulture
Andrew Bingham abingham@uidaho.edu Family & Consumer Sciences and Financial Management Sendy Martinez smartinez@uidaho.edu 4-H Youth Development
Bridget Morrisroe-Aman bridgeta@uidaho.edu Family & Consumer Sciences
Allen Taggart taggart@uidaho.edu 4-H Youth Development
Six year-long classes of the Diabetes Prevention Program were held and a grant from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare was received to support the program. Eighteen new Master Food Safety Advisor (MFSA) volunteers were trained and 46 advanced MFSA volunteers continued their education. These MFSA volunteers made 2,848 contacts and volunteered 1,023 hours.
4-H in Ada County
The 4-H program filmed and posted nine videos to social media to replace spring day camps canceled due to the pandemic, resulting in 3,340 video views. A total of 469 STEAM Kits were provided to underserved audiences in Nampa and Caldwell. The kits included worksheets in English and Spanish and the supplies needed to complete the activity. Youth had the option to meet virtually to complete the activity. The kits were also adapted into MOSS Kits following a donation. Videos were filmed to accompany each kit. A total of 237 MOSS Kits were distributed. Summer programming was provided in both Ada and Canyon counties, reaching 459 underserved youth. Several community partners such as Boys and Girls Club, Boise Parks and Recreation’s PlayCamps, NeighborWorks, and Sacajawea Elementary School participated. A part-time program assistant was hired to provide community outreach events with community partners. Bingham purchased multiple 3D printers through grant funding and began creating a curriculum revolving around the technology. Two day camps were tested, adjustments are being made, and curriculum is being written. Educator Bridget Morrisroe-Aman delivered the 4-H Youth Yoga and Healthy Habits program at five sites reaching 111 youth.
On the Horizon
A needs assessment for Idaho's ag families was recently completed that will help gauge the need for financial education, specifically as it pertains to preparing later years of life. A family-centric series, U and I Together, will run every Tuesday through the summer with a second series starting in the fall. Morrisroe-Aman is working with colleagues to develop an implementation guide for organizations wanting to implement the CDC National Diabetes Prevention Program. Future 4-H programs include Soccer for Success, where youth learn soccer skills and health and nutrition tips; Edison Robotics utilizing the WearTech and Paper Circuits curriculum; and Juntos 4-H, a program that helps Latinx youth in grades 8-12 and their families gain knowledge to bridge the gap between high school and post-secondary education.
EXTENSION TRENDS: ADAMS COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Adams County • www.uidaho.edu/adams
2020 Impact The Ranchers Feeding Youth program offered by UI Extension, Adams County continues to provide programs to schools in Adams, Valley and Washington counties. This event features a half day of youth instruction about the beef cattle industry, including information about the byproduct uses of cattle, day-to-day ranch life, and how the industry protects natural resources. Volunteers attend 3-4 schools a year and also provide a local beef lunch prepared by local ranchers. Impacts show an increase in knowledge and more awareness of the beef industry and the different aspects of the rural lifestyle so closely tied to the industry. Photo credit: Lebbie Lawyer
2020 By the Numbers • 572 direct contacts • 390 youth participants • 37 volunteers • 185 volunteer hours • $3,000 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Adams County: Dean Dryden, Sandy Dryden, Dave Veselka, Shirley Florence, Sara Swain, Phil Davis, Debbie Ellis, Meredith Bakula, Robyn Warner, Fran Ogden, Dusty Rhoades, Casey Anderson, Les Nunn, OX Ranch, Adams County Fairboard, Council FFA teachers, WRCA President RJ Holmes, Royce and Pam Schwenkfelder, Weiser River Cattle Association directors and members, and Adams/Valley Farm Bureau directors and members, Meadows Valley and Council school teachers, staff, and leadership, and Adams County Commissioners Mike Paradis, Joe Iveson and Vicki Purdy.
UI Extension Educator Tyanne Roland 208-253-4279 tyanne@uidaho.edu
UI Extension, Adams County also offers cattle industry learning opportunities including beef quality assurance classes for local producers. Online programming offerings were successful for youth to complete their annual requirements and to adults to continue ongoing learning during the struggles of COVID-19 restrictions.
4-H in Adams County The UI Extension, Adams County 4-H program continues to show growth in participation and new club offerings. Youth also continue to attend district events like the 4-H Adventure Camp and state events like the Know Your Government Conference, State Teen Association Convention and district 4-H camps. Additionally, UI Extension, Adams County continues to collaborate to offer the Idaho 4-H Rangeland Skillathon. 4-H programming is offered in local schools with a variety of events and monthly activities. Online activities were held monthly for youth and the Idaho Rangeland Skillathon was offered virtually in 2020 to comply with the ever changing challenges that 2020 brought. A successful in-person county fair was held and all 4-H exhibits were changed to a "no touch" format to show off their successes. All competitions were also streamed live using Facebook so that vulnerable populations did not need to attend in person to watch events.
On the Horizon Mental Health First Aid courses will be offered in the Adams County area to fulfill the request from the state to offer more opportunities focused on mental health in rural areas. Online 4-H and FFA bi-weekly courses were offered during the spring and summer that offered animal science classes. Those classes have continued on in 2021 because of their success in 2020. Classes for newer landowners to Adams County will be offered in late summer and fall that focus on rural lifestyle, land management, smaller acreage farming and animal husbandry. Classes for seasoned ranchers will continue in late fall and winter that will help meet their needs. A dryland grass mix demonstration trial has begun in partnership with UI Extension, Owyhee County and the OX Ranch.
EXTENSION TRENDS: BANNOCK COUNTY University of Idaho Extension, Bannock County • www.uidaho.edu/bannock
2020 Impact UI Extension Educator Reed Findlay has continued his work studying the thrips insect pest in alfalfa crops. This year he extended his research in by implementing a very controlled study in a greenhouse setting. This will enable him to calculate a more precise economic threshold for this pest. He has presented preliminary results of his work at the UI Forage Schools and at the National Association of Agriculture Agents Annual Meeting. This study is part of a team of field men, growers, specialists and educators in Blackfoot and Mud Lake.
2020 By the Numbers • 5,758 direct contacts • 2,276 youth participants • 32 volunteers • 3,325 volunteer hours • $35,856 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Bannock County: Lisa Hargraves, Curtis Austin, John McNabb, Ernie Moser and Karl Petit.
UI Extension Educators Reed Findlay 208-236-7310 rfindlay@uidaho.edu
Nikola Dalton 208-236-7312 nmdalton@uidaho.edu
Findlay is also assisting UI agronomist, Jared Spackman, in studying the agronomics of forage cereal production. This study will investigate use of the various grains such as teff, wheat, barley and oats as forage crops and how best to grow them. Findlay has again partnered with other educators and specialists to determine how teff grass responds to herbicides. This is preliminary data can eventually be used to develop a herbicide label for the crop. Currently there is not a forage herbicide labeled for teff, which makes it difficult for area producers to include in their rotations.
4-H in Bannock County The 4-H program in Bannock County continues to do well. 4-H Camp continued with almost 50 youth in attendance, partnering with Butte County. The partnership through the 21st Century Afterschool program in School District 25 is continuing. 4-H professionals are providing robotics programming to three elementary schools and one middle school. Schools throughout the county are reached through STEM programs like stomp rockets, dissection labs and robotics, and FCS projects such as learning arts and food and nutrition. The 4-H program in Bannock County also received a grant from ON Semiconductor for over $14,500 to support continued STEM efforts in robotics throughout the county.
On the Horizon Findlay will continue studying the viability and agronomics of teff grass in Idaho. There is a need to assist UI weed specialists, agronomists and industry to develop a herbicide label for this crop. Teff is a C4 grass that has not been used as a pasture grass in Idaho. This year’s results show that even a late planting of teff can match yields of traditional grass forage crops. Educator Nikola Dalton is working with 4-H volunteer Jeremy Hampton to bring a teen program to the Eastern District. The Eastern Idaho 4-H Teen Association will bring leadership, networking and preparing for Ambassadors, KYG and STAC to Eastern Idaho starting Fall 2021. The 4-H professionals in Bannock County will continue to provide STEM and FCS programming throughout the county.
EXTENSION TRENDS: BEAR LAKE COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Bear Lake County • www.uidaho.edu/bearlake
2020 Impact Learning and education did not stop due to COVID-19 in Bear Lake County. UI Extension, Bear Lake County staff were available to take questions and find answers for clientele. A special edition of the publication, Extension News, dealing with COVID-19 was sent to all households in the county. 4-H club leaders were creative in finding ways to social distance and using virtual meetings to keep programs moving forward. 4-H project camps were moved to a virtual format for a few weeks, then to limited participation as restrictions relaxed.
2020 By the Numbers • 6,716 direct contacts • 150 youth participants • 38 volunteers • 603 volunteer hours • $3,200 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Bear Lake County: Blake Wells, Brandee Wells, Elaine Peterson, Eric Cochran, Jamison McPherson, Jason Crane, J.C. Price, Kevin Wells, Mary Jensen, Olivia Harper, Scott Wells, Valerie Crane, Wayne Cochran and Whitney Beard.
Adult educational opportunities also moved to a virtual format for many of the traditional workshops, classes and seminars until guidelines allowed for small groups of clients. Thirteen local beef producers were certified in Beef Quality Assurance. Through it all, hand sanitizer and face masks were offered at each face-to-face event.
4-H in Bear Lake County The 4-H program in Bear Lake County remains strong with excellent participation in day camps, market livestock projects and an increase in the horse program. The overnight camp for 4-H members was well attended and another one is scheduled for 2021. The 4-H program finished the year in fine fashion with a highly successful 4-H fair sponsored by the Bear Lake County Fair Board.
On the Horizon The UI Extension, Bear Lake County office will soon be fully staffed with an Extension educator and a recent grant will allow for the hiring of additional staff to assist in various areas of 4-H programs.
EXTENSION TRENDS: BENEWAH COUNTY University of Idaho Extension, Benewah County • www.uidaho.edu/benewah
2020 Impact
The effects of COVID-19 were felt in 2020. Benewah County does not have a strong technology infrastructure in rural areas which resulted in limited program reach. UI Extension staff worked hard to provide creative solutions including take-home kits with projects and lessons that were sent with the school district lessons and lunches weekly.
2020 By the Numbers • 5,438 direct contacts • 604 youth participants • 72 volunteers • 2,317 volunteer hours • $132,890 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Benewah County: Becky Harold, Windy Sotin, Erin Reid, Sally Grant, Gretchen Aasgard and Nancy Malensky.
UI Extension Educators Gail Silkwood 208-245-2422 gsilkwood@uidaho.edu
Chris Schnepf 208-292-2525 cschnepf@uidaho.edu
The Extension team also created lessons that were mailed or picked up for a brand new Explore 4-H program so that youth could learn more about programs. The Idaho Master Gardener program created newsletter articles and social media posts to educate the community about gardening while they were social distancing. A national American Youth Horse Council Virtual Game Night was hosted to connect with youth across the nation. The county fair was held in person, with limited attendance, social distancing and live web streaming. Despite these challenges, Benewah County 4-H youth were able to complete their projects, the annual Sixth Grade Natural Resource Tour was safely held with some significant changes and the annual awards night was converted into a fun drive in show and dessert. More than 86 forest owners, loggers and professional foresters attended UI Extension forestry programs held in Benewah County and many residents also attended programs held in adjacent counties. Programs on forest health, fire risk reduction for homes located in the wildland urban interface, and a multi-faceted program, 10 Acres and a Dream, were offered via Zoom with over 316 participants, including many from Benewah County. Currently, one Benewah County forest owner is a certified UI Extension Idaho Master Forest Steward.
4-H in Benewah County The 4-H program in Benewah County serves over 180 youth through traditional clubs and group programming. Twenty-four volunteers oversee 16 4-H clubs. Day camps were canceled in 2020, however using technology access in the UI Extension office, 4-H club volunteers were able to provide programming to youth. A new 4-H club and program, 4-H At Home/Explore 4-H, was developed which provided students and families with lessons and materials to stay engaged and active in 4-H programming throughout the year. This also attracted new 4-H families to the program. A partnership with The Milling Center, a new youth community center, resulted in 4-H Fun Fridays throughout the spring. Students participated in art, engineering, candy making, cooking and other 4-H projects. These students also participated in a community art exhibition where they were able to showcase their 4-H experience to the public.
On the Horizon
The UI Extension staff is excited about the partnership with The Milling Center, getting back to in-person learning and partnering with all three of the local 21st Century Community Learning Centers for increased outreach to youth and adults. The addition of two AmeriCorps volunteers to provide youth development programming will also be a highlight. Educator Gail Silkwood is now certified to teach Mental Health First Aid and will collaborate with the Suicide Prevention Awareness Network of Benewah County to increase outreach and education about mental health awareness.
EXTENSION TRENDS: BINGHAM COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Bingham County • www.uidaho.edu/bingham
2020 Impact
2020 By the Numbers • 6,179 direct contacts • 1,388 youth participants • 79 volunteers • $154,049 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Bingham County: Jessica Lewis, Lloyd Tolman, Nola Cates, Ryan Searle, Kellie Park, Keith Salisbury and Brooklyn Carlile.
UI Extension Educators Reed Findlay 208-236-7310 rfindlay@uidaho.edu
Julie Buck 208-785-8060 jhbuck@uidaho.edu
Family & Consumer Sciences (FCS) Educator Julie Buck provides programming in the areas of food preservation, food safety, nutrition and health. In 2020 she served as a leader in three national organizations and published one professional article and three UI Extension publications. Buck taught an online Dining with Diabetes class and co-created a National Extension Dining with Diabetes email challenge. She taught online food demonstrations for Idaho State University Workforce Training and recorded a food preservation video. For 4-H Youth Development, Buck taught sewing project groups and day camps, taught high school students how to use an electric pressure cooker and mentored a Brigham Young University-Idaho student. Reed Findlay has continued studying the thrips insect pest in alfalfa crops and extended his research by implementing a very controlled study in a greenhouse setting. This will enable him to calculate a more precise economic threshold for this pest. He has presented preliminary results of this work at the UI Forage Schools and at the National Association of Ag Agents annual meeting. This work is part of a team of field men, growers, specialists and educators in Blackfoot and Mud Lake. Findlay is also assisting recently hired UI agronomist, Jacob Spackman, in studying the agronomics of forage cereal production. This study will investigate use of the various grains such as teff, wheat, barley and oats as forage crops and how best to grow them. Findlay has again partnered with other educators and specialists to determine how teff grass responds to herbicides. This preliminary data can eventually be used to develop a herbicide label for this crop, making it easier for producers to include it in their rotations.
4-H in Bingham County The 4-H Youth Development program in Bingham County reaches youth by taking classes to schools in outlying communities. Hands-on projects were Cooking 101 at two elementary schools and Idaho history. Efforts will continue to make 4-H more accessible to youth in more rural areas. There were 368 4-H livestock projects by Bingham County youth and a total of 215 animals were sold at the 4-H fair.
On the Horizon Upcoming 4-H programming includes Dabble in Dissection and afterschool programming during the school year. FCS efforts include Dining with Diabetes and Food Preservation classes for adults, and Welcome to the Real World, Electric Pressure Cooking, and School Pantry Project for youth. Buck is collaborating with Bingham Memorial Hospital educators on an Idaho Project Filter grant to take nicotine prevention education to Bingham County third and fourth grade classrooms. Findlay will continue studying the viability and agronomics of teff grass in Idaho to develop an herbicide label. Teff is a C4 grass that has not been used as a pasture grass in Idaho. This year’s results show that even a late planting of teff can match yields of traditional grass forage crops.
EXTENSION TRENDS: BLAINE COUNTY University of Idaho Extension, Blaine County • www.uidaho.edu/blaine
2020 Impact UI Extension, Blaine County provides education in agriculture, landscapes, horticulture and 4-H youth development. In 2020, educator Grant Loomis worked with the Blaine County Food Council to increase local food awareness and facilitate producer and buyer meetings, events and increased opportunities. Loomis also worked to increase cover crop adoption in southern Idaho as a sustainable agriculture practice and increase partnership opportunities to maximize Extension’s reach. He continues to leverage partnership opportunities with USFS, The Hunger Coalition, Sawtooth Botanical Gardens and other local area non-profits to conduct and deliver youth programming in the county.
2020 By the Numbers • 959 direct contacts • 177 youth participants • 28 volunteers • $197,522 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Blaine County: Dick Fosbury, Pat Purdy, Amy Mattias, John Saili, Lynea Petty, Tracy Green, Susan Kranz and Pamela Donoso.
UI Extension Educators Grant Loomis 208-788-5585 gloomis@uidaho.edu
Chandra Vaughan 208-788-5585 cvaughan@uidaho.edu
A solarization trail experiment, in partnership with the local Hunger Coalition, explored an alternative method to control undesirable plants in gardens instead of reliance on synthetic chemicals. Loomis partnered with a local producer to explore the use of winter wheat in a cover crop mix and presented Annie’s Project, a class for aimed towards women in agriculture, for the first time in Blaine County.
4-H in Blaine County UI Extension 4-H Youth Development programming in Blaine County reached 509 direct contacts in 2020 and 387 indirect contacts through social media. Educator Chandra Vaughn works with other UI Extension educators and 4-H professionals to plan, deliver, evaluate and improve educational events and activities. In 2020 she assisted with virtual 4-H team meetings and the Zoom into 4-H series. She integrated healthy living programming into existing programs and camps and increased 4-H marketing efforts to increase visibility of 4-H and the fair.
On the Horizon Loomis hopes to increase the density of network partners, increase collaboration, organize and deliver quality programming that has a measurable impact, while increasing clientele reach and marketing efforts. New grant opportunities for local UI Extension programming and a partnership to provide the Juntos 4-H program with the local school district will be highlights for the coming year. Vaughn will continue to integrate STEM activities into the county and recruit and prepare youth for state and national programs.
EXTENSION TRENDS: BONNER COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Bonner County • www.uidaho.edu/bonner
2020 Impact UI Extension, Bonner County horticulture programs include the Idaho Master Gardener program as well as general gardening workshops. The Master Gardener class was offered in-person and then switched to online due to the pandemic. Although many normal volunteer opportunities were not available, the Plant Clinic was held in a virtual format. Clientele emailed photos and questions to the Extension office then gathered online to learn more. Gardening workshops were limited but a few videos were created.
2020 By the Numbers • 336 direct contacts • 382 youth participants • 141 volunteers • 150 volunteer hours • $456,860 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Bonner County: Diane Green, Breigh Peterson, Harry Menser, Connie Trotter, Chris Elliot and Sarah Garcia.
UI Extension Educator Jennifer Jensen 208-263-8511 jenjensen@uidaho.edu
Chris Schnepf 208-292-2525 cschnepf@uidaho.edu
Work had started on a hands-on program to educate beginning farmers and rancher throughout Idaho. The program pivoted to an online format with a change in curriculum and program delivery. A market garden course and poultry production course were offered. To create a practical curriculum, producers around the state, including two market garden farmers and one poultry farmer in Bonner County were consulted. Six Bonner County beginning farmers participated, along with others from around the state. More than 284 forest owners, loggers and professional foresters attended UI Extension forestry programs held in Bonner County and residents also attended programs held in adjacent counties. In 2020, programs on forest health, fire risk reduction for homes located in the wildland urban interface, and a multi-faceted program, 10 Acres and a Dream, were offered via Zoom with over 316 participants, including many from Bonner County. Currently, 15 Bonner County forest owners are certified UI Extension volunteers with the Idaho Master Forest Stewards.
4-H in Bonner County Although the 4-H year was quite different in 2020, the county fair exhibitions and other end-of-year county events were held in a safe manner. The 4-H program engaged in more online content. Some volunteers utilized social media or developed videos for club and project members. The volunteer leader committees and councils used online platfroms to continue meeting through the pandemic. Even when faceto-face gathering were permitted, the online option continued to be used, allowing some volunteers that might not have otherwise attended the meetings to participate.
On the Horizon The beginning farmer and rancher curriculum will continue to be revised and more hands-on components will be incorporated, as initially intended with the project. Beginning farmer publications are being developed to be used with this program and others in the future. The 4-H program is working to streamline processes to make it easier to navigate, especially for new families. More volunteer training opportunities and day camp activities will be provided in the future.
EXTENSION TRENDS: BONNEVILLE COUNTY University of Idaho Extension, Bonneville County • www.uidaho.edu/bonneville
2020 Impact
2020 By the Numbers • 9,592 direct contacts • 2,569 youth participants • 175 volunteers • 5,494 volunteer hours • $7,800 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Bonneville County: Kathy Duplessis, Ann McRill, Morgan Nield, Christine Gladstone, Pamela Rich, Linda Beckstead, Hersh Mynarcik, Wendy Radford, Judy Seydel, Lauren Koss, Bryon Reed, Robin Manship, Catharine Dudley, Gary Lewis, Stan Boyle, Wendy Horman, Joy Boyle, Heather Rutledge, Josh S. and Cathy Johnson.
UI Extension Educators Leslee Blanch 208-529-1390 lblanch@uidaho.edu
Ron Patterson 208-529-1390 rpatterson@uidaho.edu
Alaena Ruth 208-529-1390 aruth@uidaho.edu
Eastern Idaho Pest Alert newsletters have expanded and improved with over 170 subscribers learning about pest spray schedules, other pests and beneficial bugs. The water check program helps homeowners conserve water while maintaining a healthy landscape. Educator Ron Patterson continues to help with the cereal school and Idaho Ag Outlook event where producers learn about the economic outlook for various commodities and grain growers learn about current issues regarding cereal grain production. He assists the regional agriculture economist with the farm business management program, where producers learn how to analyze their financial records to determine their financial status. Family and Consumer Science programs included in-person and virtual wellness presentations. Several virtual programs were developed to address COVID-19 related concerns and these presentations were expanded statewide through collaboration with Statewide Health Insurance Benefits advisors and the Idaho Department of Human Resources. Local collaborations included Nuclear Care Partners, Idaho National Laboratories, Eastern Idaho Community Action Partnership, Idaho State University Friends for Learning, Eastern Idaho Public Health, and IdahoStrong, expanding impact within Bonneville County. The Improving Sleep: The Latest Research program was presented nationally to the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences.
4-H in Bonneville County
The 4-H program in Bonneville County continues to grow a diverse experience due to staff, a record number of volunteers, and AmeriCorps members working to provide opportunities. Multiple workshops and camps were held to expand education to youth including a ruminant dissection experience to learn the differences between ruminant and monogastric stomachs; livestock judging training covering cattle, sheep, goats and pigs; a program on kitchen science where youth experimented with common household items to learn about reactions; and multiple new FCS programs lead by volunteers including barn quilts, hiking, fishing derby days, forestry and geology. A new club was created that focuses on service to the community and over 20 members completed nearly 10 service projects. The 4-H staff has also educated over 100 youth on ultrasound of animals for carcass contests.
On the Horizon
Patterson plans to expand the Idaho Home Garden Tips virtual discussions to twice-monthly and add a new feature, Plant Talk with Ron & Reed, for people to ask specific questions. He also plans to expand the Eastern Idaho Pest Alert newsletter to Burley and St Anthony. Idaho Master Gardener classes will be delivered online, however, several faceto-face labs will be held to teach hands-on skills in pruning and grafting. The Chronic Disease Self-Management workshop series will continue in Bonneville County and Educator Leslee Blanch will train of other FCS educators to facilitate this program around the state. Other upcoming programs include Performance Nutrition: Fueling for Success; Beating the Winter Blues; Improve Posture and Body Alignment; and Nutrition 101. Presentations will be offered in-person and virtually.
EXTENSION TRENDS: BOUNDARY COUNTY University of Idaho Extension, Boundary County • www.uidaho.edu/boundary
2020 Impact
Ten citizens completed the Master Food Safety Advisor program and fulfilled their volunteer obligations. 2020 was the second year the program was offered after a 20 year hiatus. The program educates about safe food handling during harvest, storage, preparation, and consumption. Participants attend a seven-week training that covers food safety basics, foodborne illness, spoilage, smoking and drying, high and low acid canning, preserves, pickling, freezing, and volunteering. Volunteers answer questions, host educational displays at events, and present workshops. Of the new advisors, six plan to participate in the Advanced Master Food Safety Advisor program in 2021.
2020 By the Numbers • 4,893 direct contacts • 2,040 youth participants • 75 volunteers • 2,531 volunteer hours • $57,398 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Boundary County: Joan Poppino, Jan Bayer, Shirley Anderson, Liz Bigsby, Craig Anderson, Lauren Kuczka, Tom Daniel, Tim Dillin, Georgia Earley, Wes Hubbard, Kristi Kellogg, Deanna Lauber, Julie Newcomb, Marqui Ronniger, Dennis Weed, Liz Wood and Greg Johnson.
UI Extension Educators Amy Robertson 208-267-3235 amrobertson@uidaho.edu Chris Schnepf 208-292-2525 cschnepf@uidaho.edu
More than 65 forest owners, loggers and professional foresters attended UI Extension forestry programs held in Boundary County and many residents also attended programs held in adjacent counties. Programs on forest health, fire risk reduction for homes located in the wildland urban interface, and a multi-faceted program, 10 Acres and a Dream, were offered via Zoom with over 316 participants, including many from Boundary County. Currently, five Boundary County forest owners are certified UI Extension volunteers with the Idaho Master Forest Stewards.
4-H in Boundary County
A total of 255 youth participated in traditional 4-H programs and exhibited their projects at the county fair. The UI Extension office worked closely with the Boundary County Fair Board to adjust scheduling and protocols to ensure the fair was safe for exhibitors and the community. The market animal sale was broadcast live so spectators could watch from home and two outside viewing stations were set up at the fairgrounds so people could watch while safely distancing from others. With the help of a part time AmeriCorps member, several summer day camps were held, including cooking camp, natural resources camp, Camp Clover, Hometown Heroes Day, Babysitting 101, and a youth farm tour. 4-H Friday Friends celebrated its 13th year of all-day school year programs for elementary-age children. The program received $6,000 in grants which allowed enrollment rates to stay affordable for families. The shooting sports program has seen rapid growth which has resulted in a shortage of supplies. In response, the 4-H program applied for and received funding from the NRA Foundation for twelve .22 caliber rifles, eye protection, and ear protection, a value of $3,800.
On the Horizon
Boundary County has been selected as the newest site for the Idaho FORM Project which focuses on building community partnerships with rural communities to create sustainable and evidence-based mental health programs. The project is funded by the Idaho Community Foundation and strives to reduce the stigma towards mental health, increase mental health knowledge and access, and decrease the number of suicides in rural Idaho. There will be ongoing community conversations regarding mental health and opportunities for the community to participate in QPR Suicide Prevention and Mental Health First Aid trainings. The 4-H program is partnering with BCSD 101 to host a part time AmeriCorps member who will focus on providing STEAM education at Naples Elementary and 4-H Friday Friends during the school year. During the summer they will help with day camps.
EXTENSION TRENDS: BUTTE COUNTY University of Idaho Extension, Butte County • www.uidaho.edu/butte
2020 Impact Some programs were cut short or modified to meet safety guidelines due to COVID-19. Educational activities in local schools were altered, including a computer coding class in the elementary school. Students were able to finish their projects, but not demonstrate to the community. Activites with the community garden were also altered, however, a project to start plants did occur before events were suspended.
2020 By the Numbers • 610 direct contacts • 75 youth participants • 101volunteers • 110 volunteer hours • $3,891 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in UI Extension in Butte County: Randy Purser, Michelle Purser, Romero Pancheri, Lacey Pancheri, Brad Huerta, Robert Chambers, Gretta Chambers, Dina Johnson, Melinda Shodin, Colleen Madarieta, Nickolas Hawley, Hadley MacConnell, Monte MacConnell, Anne MacConnell and Brian Harrell.
UI Extension Educator David Callister 208-527-8587 dcallister@uidaho.edu
The UI Extension office was able to participate in a spring workshop held by the Butte Soil and Water Conservation District and a fall conservation caravan. Pesticide recertification classes were held online to help local farmers maintain their licenses and Educator David Callister was able to visit individuals at their farms and homes to help diagnose pest issues. Callister also taught the 4-H curriculum Build Your Future in local schools. This program teaches the importance of training and education in lifetime salary earnings and helps youth learn about applying and paying for additional training or education after high school. The goal is to showcase opportunities within the community and encourage youth to return to the area after receiving additional education. Callister also met with seniors to discus scholarships for post-secondary education. An advisory committee was formed and held their first meeting. A plan of work for 2021 was adopted and work is underway to complete the plan.
4-H in Butte County The 4-H program in Butte County had active beef, cat, chicken, cooking, dairy, horse, rabbit, sheep, swine and robotics clubs in 2020. Most youth participated in the Butte County Fair in August. The robotics club participated well in the state competitions bringing home a few top three finishes. The 4-H market animal sale exceeded previous year’s prices and several youth competed in the Eastern Idaho State Fair and Junior Dairy Show. Callister taught online classes on dairy nutrition and metabolic disorders in cattle to 4-H youth across the state. Facebook was used to encourage youth to try new things with a Butte County Cooking Challenge. Several people accepted the challenge and posted pictures of their creations. In December, 10 youth participated in Mars Base Camp. Topics included exploring ways to overcome challenges of traveling to, living on, feeding the explorers on, and communicating back to earth while on Mars. The camp was held on Fridays allowing both school based students and home-schooled children to participate.
On the Horizon Callister is working with the Butte Soil and Water Conservation District to demonstrate different tillage options and the impact on yield in wheat. Classes are being held monthly on various agricultural topics to help local farmers. There are also plans to hold a family financial management class in 2021. 4-H is working on expanding the number of clubs to include cooking, sewing and science activities.
EXTENSION TRENDS: CAMAS COUNTY University of Idaho Extension, Camas County • www.uidaho.edu/camas
2020 Impact UI Extension Educator Cindy Kinder coordinated and taught various livestock education activities and events including the Magic Valley Livestock Education Series to provide agriculture education to youth and adult producers. As part of the district Farm Bureau, Kinder also helped plan and host the Gooding/Lincoln County Legislative Agriculture tour. A total of 38 youth and adults attended and, as a result of this tour, a local school has received a $2,100 donation for equipment and was able to network with Dairy West and their networks.
2020 By the Numbers • 1,872 direct contacts • 111 youth participants • 10 volunteers • 160 volunteer hours • $125,000 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Camas County: Reily Geritz, Ben Walters, Kristie Olsen, Jeni Brown, Ed Reagan, Randy Jewett, Janet Williamson, Janet Colter, Roxanne Bell, David Sanders, Debbie McLam, Travis Kramer, Amy Botz, Angela Thompson, Bobi Frostenson, Brandi Ash, Chanda Ashmead, Cornelia Williamson, Donna Koch, Harold Lefler, Tracy Gill, Travis Martin, Sidnee Hill, Clayton Mechame, Donna Koch, Glenn Koch, Clare Olsen and Matt McLam.
UI Extension Educator Cindy Kinder 208-764-2230 ckinder@uidaho.edu
Kinder planned and conducted three Livestock Management Schools at the Gooding County location reaching 28 youth and adults. She also partnered with the local USDA FSA office to help producers complete the required paperwork for the Coronavirus Food Assistance payment program. Kinder provided instruction and a location for 12 producers who were challenged with technology use.
4-H in Camas County Kinder planned and taught at various livestock education activities and events with animal and horse science topics, including beef weigh-in education, clipping and record book days, beef quiz bowl, ranch horse education, meaty matters workshops and beef breeding workshops. Education days were conducted at county, district and regional levels for youth involved in 4-H, FFA and other youth organizations. The horseriding clinic, horse education carnival and southern Idaho livestock judging camp were not conducted due to COVID-19, however, Kinder was part of a team that hosted the Zoom into 4-H livestock series and 4-H project series. Kinder reached 423 youth and adults in a face-to-face teaching arrangement and her livestock Zoom presentation reached 83 different sites from three districts. All 10 sessions within the Zoom into 4-H series reached 458 sites, where 455 youth and adults completed surveys. Kinder also provided youth opportunities to learn and perform science skills through virtual science at home lessons, livestock and horse lessons and club work lessons. Ten science lessons were created and posted for use by schools and community members. Three additional activities were created to support science learning from home. Four livestock and horse lessons were created and posted for use by volunteers and families wanting to learn more about their livestock project. Two club work sessions were created and posted for use by volunteers and families wanting to learn more about goal setting and public speaking.
On the Horizon A generous endowment will allow UI Extension, Camas County to hire an intern in 2021 to help expand local summer programs.
EXTENSION TRENDS: CANYON COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Canyon County • www.uidaho.edu/canyon
2020 Impact
A total of 17 new Idaho Master Gardener volunteers were certified in 2020 and 65 total volunteers logged 5,695 hours, a value of $128,360. Volunteers taught 1,055 clients who grew and donated a total of 14,732 pounds of produce to local food banks.
2020 By the Numbers • 9,661 direct contacts • 3,527 youth participants • 296 volunteers • 5,695 volunteer hours • $563,317 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Canyon County.
UI Extension Educators Jerry Neufeld 208-459-6003 jerryn@uidaho.edu
Jackie Amende 208-459-6003 jamende@uidaho.edu
Carrie Clarich 208-459-6003 carriej@uidaho.edu
Samantha Ball 208-459-6003 sroberts@uidaho.edu
Nic Usabel 208-459-6003 nusabel@uidaho.edu
The PNWPest Alert Network generated 103 alerts for the Treasure Valley. Survey results indicate 48% reporting were able to manage pest problems more effectively and 24% spent less time on pest management issues. Over the past 17 years, subscribers report a 5.64% decrease in pesticide use on their crops. One National Diabetes Prevention Program was completed and two others were started in 2020, including a new partnership with the Nampa Recreation Center. Since 2017, this program has enrolled 83 participants with 54 completing the program or currently enrolled and a total of 698.8 pounds lost. The Winter Beef School featured presentations and a tour of the new CS Beef plant in Kuna. Several articles were published in the Cattleman’s Corner newsletter, which is shared with local beef producers, and a journal article was published about the success of the newsletter.
4-H in Canyon County UI Extension, Canyon County offers traditional 4-H programming as well as a series of spring and summer 4-H day camps, Short Term Enrollment Programs (STEP), in-school, afterschool programs and community celebration events. With over 630 youth members in 55 clubs, the Canyon County 4-H program is home to one of the largest 4-H club programs in Idaho. Youth participate in projects ranging from livestock, pets, foods and nutrition, leadership, art, and more. Members can complete a project in six to eight weeks through the STEP program. Spring and summer day camps are held at a variety of sites in the county and on a variety of topics. Many camps are focused on STEAM projects and reaching underserved youth.
On the Horizon Jerry Neufeld is using drone technology to investigate if multispectral sensors carried by drones can be used to scout onions and hops for damage caused by insects. Nic Usabel is working on a collaborative effort, U and I Together: An activity series where all ages can learn!, during the summer and fall of 2021. He is also offering a Junior Master Gardener training for schoolteachers on the curriculum Learn, Grow, Eat & Grow! Samantha Ball is collaborating with meat scientists around the state on a Red Meat Science curriculum for adults and youth, which will focus on beef, sheep/goats, and swine. Jackie Amende will focus programming on health and nutrition, including the annual Dining with Diabetes program. She will also train youth and adult community members to become Community Wellness Volunteers and work with them throughout the year to serve and give back to their communities. She will continue to co-facilitate the Caldwell Health Coalition which continues to identify and bridge health gaps in the Caldwell community. The 4-H program will continue to provide outreach to in-school and afterschool programs. In 2021, a $6,000 grant was received from the Idaho STEM Action Center for new robotics equipment. With the grant, 30 Edison Robots and 17 Chromebooks were purchased and two afterschool programs and several summer school programs have already been reached with this new equipment.
EXTENSION TRENDS: CARIBOU COUNTY University of Idaho Extension, Caribou County • www.uidaho.edu/caribou
2020 Impact 2020 presented unique challenges which changed the way UI Extension provided service to the public. Programs and meetings transitioned from in-person to virtual. While there were challenges associated with virtual meetings, many participants liked the flexibility that a virtual option provided. Virtual meetings also made it possible to reach more people with significantly less travel. Traditionally, UI Extension Educators spend a week at the beginning of December traveling around Eastern Idaho teaching pesticide recertification classes. In 2020, almost as many people were reached in one three-hour virtual meeting. Participants enjoyed being able to participate from remote locations.
2020 By the Numbers • 1,661 direct contacts • 150 youth participants • 14 volunteers • 462 volunteer hours • $2,500 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Caribou County: Brett Torgeson, Cameron Williams, Scott Brown, Kyle Wangeman, Eric Simonson, Blair Rindlisbaker, Glen Wight, Steve Wight, and Reed Crandall.
UI Extension Educator Justin Hatch 208-547-3205 jlhatch@uidaho.edu
Although in-person classes will be offered once again, a virtual option will be provided for some programs due to the positive feedback.
4-H in Caribou County The 4-H program in Caribou County has seen significant growth in horse programs the last couple of years. The Working Ranch Horse program was brought back in 2019 with three members completing the project. In 2020, 12 participants completed the project. The program is expected to continue to grow in Caribou County. While COVID-19 put a damper on many 4-H activities, UI Extension was still able to hold day camps throughout the summer. The Caribou County Fair was canceled in 2020, however, 4-H events were still held with great support from the local community.
On the Horizon UI Extension strives to meet the needs of the community by offering relevant programs and conducting local research. Plans are underway to continue assisting with the UI Extension cereal variety trials, and the aphid monitoring network. Irrigated and non-irrigated pasture grass variety trials will be conducted in Chesterfield next year.
EXTENSION TRENDS: CASSIA COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Cassia County • www.uidaho.edu/cassia
2020 Impact 2020 By the Numbers • 8,699 direct contacts • 5,155 youth participants • 85 volunteers • 2,700 volunteer hours • $6,250 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Cassia County.
UI Extension Educators Joel Packham 208-878-9461 jpackham@uidaho.edu
Grace Wittman 208-878-9461 gwittman@uidaho.edu
UI Extension, Cassia County family and consumer science programs included a Zoom into Home Food Preservation workshop with over 20 registrations and five attending all sessions. Educator Grace Wittman also helped conduct a Preserve@Home course with 14 participants and reports indicate that all participants intend to do nine research-based safe food preservation practices. Due to COVID-19, in-person update sessions with the Master Food Safety volunteers were not held, however, they spent their time answering approximately 200 food preservation questions throughout the summer and fall. 4-H programming remained strong despite the pandemic. Focus was put on the Cassia County School District's afterschool program (Spark) and a robotics club. Outreach for all programs continued through traditional and alternative methods. Agriculture and farm management classes include farm financial management and estate/succession planning in Cassia County and the Magic Valley. The 2020 classes were held prior to the pandemic with one farm management class held in Jerome and two succession/ estate planning classes held in Burley and Gooding. Smaller classes with less than 10 operations allow for more work with individuals, including personal visits to help producers complete required tasks. Producers leave the financial management classes with two years of balance sheets, a year-end income statement/financial analysis and a cash flow budget. Succession classes offer time with an estate/succession planning lawyer within a classroom setting where questions and answers flow freely. Farm goals, mission statements and legacy statements are also required to encourage participants to take a strategic look at their respective operations. Cover crop research helps producers understand the value of maintaining the health of their soils and gives them a greater ability to make decisions on how to use this underutilized practice. The cover crop research team, including Educator Joel Packham, has worked with several producers to help others see the value of using cover crops to build soil health and to provide grazing during the fall and winter. The cover crop research involves wide, twin row corn (60 & 44 inch spacing) interseeded with cover crops. This research should produce a greater amount of forage for grazing as opposed to interseeding cover crops into regular spaced corn fields. With one year of research completed in 2020, 2021 promises to provide more data to make recommendations to producers for maximum corn and subsequent cover crop forage production while building soil health.
4-H in Cassia County
On the Horizon
A multi-county grant was awarded to reach youth in outlying areas via at-home 4-H project kits to complete during virtual club meetings. Short Term Enrollment Projects (STEP) were well received as an alternative to traditional club meetings and record books. Take home science kits were delivered to day cares and the Lunch in the Park program. Partnerships continued with the College of Southern Idaho, Burley Public Library, Cassia County School Districts and the Cassia Regional Hospital.
Wittman will conduct in-person home food preservation courses to meet the current interest in community members wishing to learn more about preserving foods. She will also offer the Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth Food Science curriculum during the fall and winter months.
4-H livestock participation in Cassia County continued to move forward despite the pandemic. There were 344 completed livestock projects in seven different species. The sale of these livestock totaled $797,894. On average, each youth was able to receive over $1,600 above the cost of the animal for use in saving for college and the next stage of life. Wittman focused on developing the Leadership NOW! 4-H advanced leadership program. Nine participants from across Idaho participated in five Zoom classes covering topics such as professionalism, youth/adult partnerships and parliamentary procedure. They also attended six hours of in-person trainings during the 4-H State Teen Association Convention in 2021 and presented results of community service learning projects. Wittman is also working with co-authors to develop a food science curriculum on the science of sugar to help youth learn more about sugar and chocolate chemistry and how it can be used to produce confections.
4-H programming will include STEAM projects, including robotics, coding and drones and gardening and FCS programs will be provided at the local alternative high school. STEP will continue to be offered and plans are underway for STEM grants to reach a broader audience. The 4-H program will seek additional partnerships within the schools to deliver 4-H programming during school hours to reach underserved youth. Packham is part of a new five-year study looking at the value, in terms of soil health, to using cover crops and compost on a yearly basis. This will be studied as it affects corn production with various planting methods and different cover crop mixes. This data will help producers make informed decisions regarding the usage of cover crops.
EXTENSION TRENDS: CLARK COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Clark County • www.uidaho.edu/clark
2020 Impact UI Extension offers 90% of classes free of charge to the youth in Clark County. With many elective classes being cut at the schools due to funding, the 4-H program gives youth an opportunity to learn new skills and be involved during the summer months. The 4-H program gives them a chance to explore other interests they may have, and always strive to do better.
4-H in Clark County
2020 By the Numbers • 710 direct contacts • 31 youth participants • 8 volunteers • 200 volunteer hours
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Clark County: Jill Grover, Bailey Downs, Amy Mickelsen, Brenda Laird and Dee Anne Taylor.
UI Extension Educator Joseph Sagers 208-270-4031 jsagers@uidaho.edu
The 4-H program in Clark County joined the Clark County School District to offer a summer program in June 2020. All activities were held outside due to COVID-19 restrictions. 4-H sponsored archery and rocketry during the summer program, which helped increase participation numbers. The 4-H program offers traditional horse and livestock projects throughout the summer and generally offers 15 day camps. Activities are changed every year to give youth an expanded learning opportunity. The program continues to look for community volunteers to teach new projects and is utilizing supplies purchased through the 21st Century Learning Center grant through the school district, but will need to start to replenishing supplies.
On the Horizon The UI Extension office is interested in applying for grant assistance to expand programs and buy new supplies that are needed. UI Extension Educator Joseph Sagers is managing research plots of Teff grass in Kimberly. Teff is an underutilized crop in Idaho, primarily because it has not been heard of or marketed. It is an annual grass crop that offers high yield and quality for forage producers. Sagers is working to establish basic agronomic practices such as planting date and cutting height for growers in Idaho to help them utilize this new and emerging crop.
EXTENSION TRENDS: CLEARWATER COUNTY University of Idaho Extension, Clearwater County • www.uidaho.edu/clearwater
2020 Impact Despite the challenges of the pandemic, UI Extension, Clearwater County conducted 13 adult education events (six held virtually), reaching 254 clients representing 103,000 acres of land and 97 new Extension clients. There was also an additional 41 views of virtual program recordings. In addition, adult direct engagement activities increased by 29% over 2019 to 71, and direct adult contacts went up 21% over 2019 to 870, including increased site visits to private landowners in lieu of live workshops which were curtailed due to the pandemic.
4-H in Clearwater County 2020 By the Numbers • 2,284 direct contacts • 410 youth participants • 35 volunteers • 2,000 volunteer hours • $36,000 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Clearwater County: Rick Winkle, Mike Ryan, John Smith, Chris St. Germain, Alex Irby, Chris Goetz, Dave Summers, Eileen Rowan, Norm Tomlinson, Larry Taylor, NRCS and Clearwater Soil and Water Conservation District Board.
UI Extension Educator William A. Warren 208-476-4434 williamw@uidaho.edu
Clearwater County 4-H projects were the third highest of the last 10 years at 351 completed projects, including 61 market animal projects, the second highest in the same time period. 4-H volunteers adapted to the pandemic by conducted meetings via Zoom and at outdoor venues. Social media posts became an effective way to communicate about 4-H during the pandemic with over 14,000 views. Perhaps the major success considering the pandemic was going forward with a 4-H livestock exhibition and auction. With COVID-19 protocols in place, including a move outdoors to improve safety and a virtual option for bidding, the 4-H livestock sale brought in over $140,000 to local 4-H youth. County Commissioners pitched in an additional $5,000 in funding for expenses associated with conducting the livestock exhibition with pandemic protocols, a testament to the strong community support for the 4-H program.
On the Horizon Renewed live programing and a continuation of some programs delivered virtually, including a webinar on elk management in the Clearwater Basin in collaboration with the Clearwater Basin Collaborative are underway. The Sixth Grade Forestry Tour will be held in 2021 after being canceled in 2020, with an altered one-day format. A more normal schedule for the 4-H livestock exhibition and fair will be resumed.
EXTENSION TRENDS: CUSTER COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Custer County • www.uidaho.edu/custer
2020 Impact
2020 brought many challenges, including funding shortages, staffing challenges, and canceling many in-person classes due to COVID-19. However, the UI Extension office still managed to serve clients and meet their needs with programming and information via a variety of methods. Educator Sarah Baker conducted numerous meat cutting demonstrations, hosted beef carcass contests for FFA and 4-H members, organized and conducted the Idaho Young Cattle Producer’s Conference with colleagues, and conducted two Winter Beef Schools, one Hay School, two Fertilizer Schools, and various Ag Week education events in Custer County.
2020 By the Numbers • 3,194 direct contacts • 79 youth participants • 9 volunteers • $9,750 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Custer County.
UI Extension Educator Sarah Baker 208-879-2344 sdbaker@uidaho.edu
During the pandemic, Baker continued to address numerous calls and conduct field visits on beef related issues to local producers, including soil and hay testing consultations, fertilizer recommendations, nitrate testing of annual forages, and weed identification and management. She also conducted numerous field calls to discuss pasture management, grasshopper infestations, ground squirrel, vole, and gopher control, and other pest management programs. She provided research-based information on natural resource and range management and served as a resource on public policy issues through organized meetings, tours, and trainings, including assisting ranchers in completing year-end monitoring requirements on public rangelands. A popular event held in 2020 was Beef Up Your Table-Holiday Edition, where Baker presented beef cutting demonstrations and beef nutrition information. Attendees learned how to break down primals and subprimals of beef, how to cook meals with an electric pressure cooker, and how to prepare easy, nutritious, cost-effective meals for their families.
4-H in Custer County
In 2020, a small but active Teen Leadership Club made headlines when a member was elected as the State Teen Association Vice President. Members attended statewide leadership events, including Know Your Government, Ambassadors, and the Idaho 4-H State Teen Association Convention. They brought information back to the county and encouraged other youth to become involved in these opportunities. Livestock program numbers were down slightly due to COVID-19, but a successful county fair and market animal sale was held. 2020 saw the largest sale on record, thanks to a supportive community and outstanding youth and livestock projects: 59 animals sold for a total of $227,140, topping 2019’s total of $170,266 and 73 animals sold. Market hogs averaged $10.25/lb compared to 2019's $4.60/lb. Market steers averaged over $6,000/animal; sheep averaged over $1,500/animal, and hogs averaged over $2,700/animal.
On the Horizon
A newly hired program assistant will help keep the office open five days a week. UI Extension, Custer County provides educational programming and resources to community members in Challis, Mackay, Stanley, Clayton, and many other small rural populations. The office is small with only one educator, one staff member, and numerous volunteers, but they are excited to be a resource to the community with programming in livestock, beef end-product quality, range management, and 4-H youth development.
EXTENSION TRENDS: ELMORE COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Elmore County • www.uidaho.edu/elmore
2020 Impact
Educator Brad Stokes organizes a yearly pesticide recertification course for agricultural and horticultural professionals in Elmore County. He also bridges the gap with various research projects that are directly applicable to local growers and their crops. Stokes and his program assistant help judge the National Corn Yield Contest every fall for several county producers and he responds to various agricultural and ranching related questions across the county to help solve real-world problems.
2020 By the Numbers • 1,156 direct contacts • 297 youth participants • 57 volunteers • 3,300 volunteer hours • $60,660 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Elmore County: Justin Wootan, Jared Zito, Billy Wolfe, Kya Vines-Bideganeta, Jason Nettleton, Julie Davis, Jeff Blanksma and Monty White.
UI Extension Educator Brad Stokes 208-590-2286 bstokes@uidaho.edu
Stokes recruited, taught and developed an Idaho Master Gardener class of eight individuals in spring 2021. Master Gardeners are solely involved in planting, growing and managing the Community Garden in Mountain Home. The majority of food and fresh produce is donated back into the community. Stokes responds to various horticultural and insect/ arthropod related questions in the community and responds to questions through UI Extension’s Idaho Insect Identification website. Stokes oversees the Elmore County 4-H program, coordinated by Nadine Cook, and expanded the shooting sports program to include shotgun, pistol and rifle leaders. A part-time 4-H program assistant was hired to expand programming to include afterschool projects, including a fiveweek entomology science course.
4-H in Elmore County
UI Extension, Elmore County's 4-H program encompasses 237 youth in various traditional and innovative projects. Youth can choose from 29 projects led by 4-H leaders in 20 clubs throughout Elmore County. The 4-H program is led by Nadine Cook who has been a remarkable asset for program implementation, youth members and 4-H leader development. Shooting sports continues to be a popular attraction, as well as the majority of traditional 4-H livestock projects. The afterschool 4-H programming encompasses sewing, entomology science and arts to provide additional opportunities. Through the National 4-H Council National Mentoring Program (NMP) grant, Stokes oversees Mountain Home Air Force Base programming and Jami Davis serves as site coordinator. Davis provides mentor/mentee matching for 60 youth and 14 mentors using Tech Wizards curriculum. All Elmore County youth programs have continued to see tremendous success with amazing community and county support.
On the Horizon
Stokes is exploring a second bee sample for the Elmore County Bee Survey Project in summer 2022 to complete a four-year study on native bee species in Elmore County. A study of this magnitude scientifically documents the current species found and explores hypotheses concerning the richness of bee species in the county for the future. A Smoking and Grilling class is an opportunity for Stokes to explore Family and Consumer Science programs for adults and youth. The NMP grant will explore a healthy living curriculum for youth at the Mountain Home Air Force Base.
EXTENSION TRENDS: FORT HALL RESERVATION University of Idaho Extension, Fort Hall Reservation • www.uidaho.edu/forthall
2020 Impact
In the midst of the pandemic, the UI Extension, Fort Hall Reservation Federally Recognized Tribal Extension Program persevered with several modifications to comply with COVID regulations.
2020 By the Numbers • 1,695 direct contacts • 682 youth participants • 11 volunteers • 71 volunteer hours • $148,616 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help develop programming and disseminate the work we do for UI Extension, Fort Hall Reservation through our five advisory boards in beef, range, general agriculture, horticulture and 4-H/youth development.
UI Extension Educator Danielle Gunn 208-236-1046 dgunn@uidaho.edu
Many programs could not be conducted, so new community and agricultural needs were assessed and addressed. The most significant program that resulted from this assessment included collaboration with local Farm Service Agency offices to bring the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) to the Fort Hall Reservation. Two CFAP’s were available to help producers with financial hardships due to the change in food supply chains and resulting decrease in livestock prices. This collaboration gave Educator Danielle Gunn the opportunity to assist tribal and non-tribal producers with CFAP applications directly on the reservation. It also eliminated many barriers for tribal producers, so they had easy access to the program and were comfortable applying. Approximately 60 producers who were able to make loan payments, purchase feed, and maintain their ranching operations through this assistance. Gunn also developed and implemented a beef marketing program in response to the many producers who were unable to sell their calves. She worked with local buyers to help tribal producers learn about alternatives for selling their calves. The alternatives required changes in vaccination protocols which lead to additional educational opportunities. As a result of the program, participants successfully implemented new protocols and sold their calves for a fair price.
Fort Hall Reservation 4-H
Tribal 4-H Program Director Nola Cates typically coordinates year-round 4-H and afterschool programs for tribal youth with a focus on agriculture, science, nutrition, gardening and life skills. The pandemic greatly reduced the ability to offer programs in 2020. The high number of COVID-19 cases required strict regulations and the Extension office was too small to practice social distancing and remain in compliance with tribal regulations. Cates provided programming to the Fort Hall Afterschool program which had enough room for social distancing, and traveled to the facility weekly to teach programs, reaching over 600 youth. The popular Tribal Youth in Ag Program was also conducted at the same afterschool facility. Each month an agricultural commodity was selected, and a science-based lesson was taught along with a hands-on activity. A healthy snack was also prepared with the selected product. Over 120 youth were reached through this program. Youth participants can now knowledgeably discuss agricultural commodities; know how food is produced, harvested, and transported; and have developed personal connections.
On the Horizon
New ways of reaching youth will be implemented, including collaboration with the Tribal Youth Recreation department to teach 4-H classes to youth in outlying tribal districts. This will involve traveling to a selected tribal lodge each week to offer classes. There are also seven new 4-H lamb projects as part of 4-H programming. An additional new program includes education and training in spring development for improved livestock water sources on rangeland. This programming will help provide better water resources for livestock while helping conserve natural resources.
EXTENSION TRENDS: FRANKLIN COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Franklin County • www.uidaho.edu/franklin
2020 Impact
Educator Laura Sant taught three sessions of Preserve@Home with Extension Educators from Idaho, Oregon, Colorado and Wyoming. Of the 60 students who completed the class, 73% had a grade of 70% or better showing increased knowledge of food preservation methods. A post survey showed that 14% to 50% of respondents were already doing research-based behaviors before the class and 64% to 93% reported learning about the skills during class. Sant gave a demonstration on Eating the Mediterranean Way and associated health benefits for the Mealtime Inspirations event in two locations and an event evaluation indicated that participants had an increase in knowledge and intention to make healthy lifestyle changes.
2020 By the Numbers • 1,619 direct contacts • 612 youth participants • 32 volunteers • 200 volunteer hours • $1,000 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Franklin County: Dirk Bowles, Boyd Burbank, Julie Johnson, Sarah Layland, Rex Larsen, Robert Swainston and Dawn Ashby.
UI Extension Educators Bracken Henderson 208-852-1097 brackenh@uidaho.edu
Laura Sant 208-852-1097 lsant@uidaho.edu
The Franklin County Wellness Program saw 34 of 62 county employees make a lifestyle goal to maintain or improve some aspect of their health for a $50 incentive. Two employees resigned and 47% who made goals reached and maintained their goal and attended at least two educational classes. Welcome to the Real World was taught twice to 56 high school students. Post evaluations showed they learned: 58% writing a check, 21% wants versus needs, 42% opening a bank account, 79% balancing a checkbook register, 81% setting up/using online banking, 81% budget percentages for expense categories, 67% the relationship between education and potential earning, and 52% the time value of saving money. Educator Bracken Henderson developed an educational training video on pruning/training young ornamental shade trees, in conjunction with a live online broadcast. A how-to bulletin on the topic is now in review. Henderson has been working to develop an alternative method for homeowners to control earwigs in their landscape. These unique insects are beneficial predators for most of the year but can become problematic. Homeowners looking to control these insects have few options that don’t also damage other beneficial insects like pollinators. Henderson ran trials on insecticide baits for earwig control and results will be published in 2021. Henderson is also involved in a dairy heifer pasture grazing project with Utah State University and the USDA Forage and Range Laboratory in Logan, Utah and is working with USU colleagues on weed control issues.
4-H in Franklin County
There were 32 leaders and 278 4-H members enrolled in 946 projects in Franklin County, with 588 completed projects. Sant taught or cotaught six projects. She was unable to teach Bread in the Bag due to the pandemic, however, she created a video to be used at home.. She also taught or co-taught two afterschool projects and assisted with planning and presenting 4-H activities at the fair. Henderson serves on several 4-H committees and boards and has taken the 4-H giant pumpkin growing contest to Oneida County.
On the Horizon
Sant received training in Mental Health First Aid for adults and youth and is excited to provide classes to teach community members skills to respond to the signs of mental illness and substance use. Henderson is offering pesticide applicator trainings in-person and online. He will also create a more refined video for pruning/training ornamental shade trees and is considering becoming involved in a mental health for farmers program in Idaho.
EXTENSION TRENDS: FREMONT COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Fremont County • www.uidaho.edu/fremont
2020 Impact 2020 was a successful year for UI Extension, Fremont County, despite the challenges of the worldwide pandemic. The office continued to serve farmers, gardeners and 4-H youth with programs and consultations to meet their needs. In 2020 a focus was made to reach out to farming families to address the mental health challenges faced by Idaho producers, including addressing signs of people at risk of suicide. At various locations, over 300 participants learned tips and tricks to reduce stress.
2020 By the Numbers • 4,196 direct contacts • 1,735 youth participants • 40 volunteers
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Fremont County.
The Idaho Master Gardener Program offered a hybrid class using distance technology to improve rural community access, and the public is able to access weekly gardening articles provided by UI Extension, Fremont County through four media outlets that serve the Eastern Idaho area.
4-H in Fremont County The Fremont County 4-H program offered a variety of new and regular 4-H day camps, including Dutch oven cooking, gardening, dissection, sewing, and the 4-H STEM challenge Mars Base Camp. The livestock shows were held in August with nearly 120 animals.
On the Horizon In 2021, the hybrid model of the Idaho Master Gardener Program will be offered to rural counties to reach a broader audience, with a new facilitator’s guide with course templates, lesson outlines and PowerPoint presentations. 4-H camps will continue to be offered to youth.
EXTENSION TRENDS: GEM/BOISE COUNTY University of Idaho Extension, Gem and Boise County • www.uidaho.edu/gem
2020 Impact
The Living on the Land: Stewardship for Small Acreages course was offered as a 14-week course and split into two locations to reach more people across the northern part of the Treasure Valley in 2020. Gem and Boise county residents were invited to attend resulting in seven registrations out of 27. Participants completed the course and a follow-up farm visit by University of Idaho Extension educators. Instructors for the course included UI Extension educators from Gem, Payette, Owyhee, Ada and Canyon counties, agency professionals, and small acreage landowners. All participants reported increased knowledge in course topics such as weed control, pasture management, livestock and crop production, and water and soil management.
4-H in Gem and Boise County
2020 By the Numbers • 2,691 direct contacts • 754 youth participants • 58 volunteers • 3,178 volunteer hours
UI Extension Educator Rebecca Mills 208-365-6363 rmills@uidaho.edu
AmeriCorps service members planned and participated in two service projects, conducted seven multi-day camps, facilitated STEAM activities at two school-based events, led regular in-class activities in four elementary classrooms, and held daily activities for youth during the county fair. All these activities were new offerings from the 4-H program in Gem and Boise counties with attendance of 358 youth and nearly 100 hours of contact time. The AmeriCorps program was also able to pivot effectively when schools and community events shut down due to COVID-19. In response, they planned and released a STEAM at Home activity and posted it to the 4-H Facebook page daily. What they thought would last only 14 days ended up continuing through the end of the school year for a total of 55 activities. As part of the grant, service members observed participants’ progress in the areas of the six C’s for any activity with over six hours of contact time: competence, confidence, connection, character, caring and contribution. In each applicable situation, youth improved over the length of the observation period. The AmeriCorps STEAM efforts contributed to observed differences in youth behavior, reached underserved audiences through the schools, nearly doubled the reach of 4-H in the community, and contributed to good public relations that 4-H is more than livestock, horse or cooking projects.
On the Horizon
The AmeriCorps programs will continue with plans to partner with schools and county government in Boise County for funding to expand programs in that area. A new course on small scale production will launch in 2021 and will include farm tours and hands-on poultry production education. The Living on the Land: Stewardship for Small Acreages course will also continue on.
EXTENSION TRENDS: GOODING COUNTY University of Idaho Extension, Gooding County • www.uidaho.edu/gooding
2020 Impact
The UI Extension, Gooding County office responded to COVID-19 with flexible programming, publications, videos and grant proposals to help the community with COVID-19 resources. Multiple projects began in 2020, including a USDA Sustainable Agricultural Systems (SAS) grant. Educator Mario de Haro Martí has $1.2 million in spending authority for two research and Extension projects. Programs include cover crops, compost and vermicompost, and soil biostimulants for corn silage.
2020 By the Numbers • 3,122 direct contacts • 532 youth participants • 134 volunteers • 150 volunteer hours • $10,045,600 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Gooding County: Mark Bolduc, Susan Bolton, Cooper Brossy, Ron Buhler, Larry Bybee, Ricky Fritz, Kay Hults, Sue Johnson, Jessica Knapp, Barb Messick, Tanya Oldham, Leigh Patterson, Jamie Price, Chris Pruett, Derek Romer, Megan Satterwhite, Arlene Shaw, Jordan Stebbins, Isaac Tellez, Jaren Wadsworth and Larry Walton.
UI Extension Educators Mario de Haro Martí 208-934-4417 mdeharo@uidaho.edu
Cindy Kinder 208-934-4417 ckinder@uidaho.edu
The Gooding Community Garden, a partnership with UI Extension, Gooding Soil Conservation District, NRCS, and volunteers, generated 6,500 pounds of produce that was donated to five non-profits in two cities and the Gooding jail. Demonstrations were held on cover crops, drought-tolerant grasses, pollinator habitat, fruit tree planting and care, and community gatherings. STEM activites were taught in partnership with Hagerman and Bliss school districts, Idaho Fish and Game, volunteers and community members to support the National 4-H STEM and agriculture initiative. A grant funded science fair included guest speakers sharing how science can be found in the community. Participants toured 36 projects presented by 63 students in various categories. Eleven projects went to state, six won their divisions, three won National Bronze Awards and three received National Gold Awards at the National FFA Convention. Friday Fun Food Labs provided hands-on learning sessions for youth and adults, about the science used to transform raw products into the foods we eat. Topics included how a crop is grown and how once harvested it is made into raw food products.
4-H in Gooding County
The Gooding County 4-H program consisted of 14 clubs, 188 members and 197 projects displayed at the 2020 Gooding County Fair. Hybrid and virtual programs were offered, including virtual drawing classes and a spring dairy education day. In-person events included the county fair, a dog workshop, summer dairy education day, and the year-end awards ceremony to honor 4-H members and volunteers for their hard work. A part-time AmeriCorps instructor allowed for expansion of networking and program support through leadership trainings, robotics day camp, first aid training, and the creation of social media accounts. Virtual programs included a cooking challenge series, We-Connect classes on global empathy and leadership, blog series, Herrett Center reptile virtual field trip, STEAM activities and a 4-H informational series. In-person programs included cake decorating and Junior Master Gardener classes.
On the Horizon
Research and Extension programs for the USDA-SAS grant are being developed to generate a bioeconomy based on dairy manure and other byproducts to benefit rural America. This five-year project will potentially provide another revenue source for farmers. The Gooding Community Garden will expand its ability to produce fresh vegetables for underserved and at-risk members of the community. Collaboration with the Idaho School for the Deaf and Blind will identify and convert youth education curriculum to braille, large print, and audio. Summer 2021 programs include a space exploration series, an oil painting without rules series, and a cake decorating series.
EXTENSION TRENDS: IDAHO COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Idaho County • www.uidaho.edu/idaho
2020 Impact The Idaho Young Cattle Producer Conference continued in 2020 with 20 young producers from across the state learning about the cattle industry and business. Due to COVID restrictions, producers were provided education on beef cattle topics via newsletters, columns in newspapers, individual consultations and online webinars.
2020 By the Numbers • 6,589 direct contacts • 730 youth participants • 85 volunteers • 8,500 volunteer hours • $7,600 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Idaho County: Joe Baerlocher, Joe Chicane, Frank McIntire, Neil Uptmor, Pete Wittman, Marcus Higgins, Brad Higgins, Austin Sonnen, Jim Wemhoff, Buster Rudolph, Quin Wemhoff, Mary Charley, Teresa Enos, Leslie McIntire, Debbie Kelley, Mary Uhlorn, Andrea Solberg, Kymm Gresset, Dustin Elliott, Katrena Hauger, Kristi Brooks, Julie Hauger, Jen Detweiler, Eve McColloch and Lance McColloch.
UI Extension Educators Jim Church 208-983-2667 jchurch@uidaho.edu
Kirstin Jensen 208-983-2667 kdjensen@uidaho.edu
Over 152 individual health/nutrition/fitness consultations were conducted in both private and online settings. The community walking program, Walk & Talk, changed formats to an online option: Walk the Prairie & Beyond – HD. An average of 43 walkers participated each week. There are 261 members of the Facebook group and 98% of participants are female. Educational videos were provided each week and covered a variety of health and wellness topics (fitness apps, physical activity guidelines and recommendations, nutrition, sleep health, hydration, etc.). Two Partners Inspiring Community Health youth events were offered, snowshoeing and junior golf. The remainder were canceled due to COVID-19.
4-H in Idaho County Over 400 4-H members participated in a variety of 4-H projects including STEM projects, FCS projects and animal science projects. These members were led by a tremendous group of 90 adult volunteers. Highlights for the year included online educational webinars for animal science participants and the continuation of a highly successful leadership development program, Idaho County 4-H Ambassadors, and a new leadership program for junior high aged kids called the Mod Squad.
On the Horizon The UI Extension, Idaho County office will be looking at the development of a new heifer development and value added program in 2021: the North Idaho Certified Elite (NICE) Heifer program. The online walking program Walk the Prairie & Beyond – HD continues to be a successful way to reach a larger group of clientele as participants can connect from all over the U.S. Individual and group health/nutrition/fitness consultations are still being offered in an online format and in-person meetings are slowly returning. Mental Health First Aid trainings are being offered both in-person and in a virtual format. The Five for Five physical activity curriculum is completed and working through the UI Extension publishing system with hopes to offer to Extension statewide by the end of the year.
EXTENSION TRENDS: JEFFERSON COUNTY University of Idaho Extension, Jefferson County • www.uidaho.edu/jefferson
2020 Impact Educator Lorie Dye taught several pressure cooker meal classes and classes on making freezer meals. A five-week food preservation course was also offered. Two weeks of the course was taught before COVID-19 restrictions and the remainder of the course was taught virtually. Supplies for food preservation such as lids and jars were difficult to find causing some consumers to create unsafe preservation methods and post them on social media. Newsletters were written and many phone call questions answered concerning food safety.
2020 By the Numbers • 1,589 direct contacts • 564 youth participants • 71 volunteers • 1,400 volunteer hours • $2,424 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Jefferson County.
UI Extension Educators Lorie Dye 208-745-6685 ldye@uidaho.edu
Joseph Sagers 208-270-4031 jsagers@uidaho.edu
Educational agricultural classes were adapted to an online format, allowing for a wider variety of clientele during the quarantine restrictions. Classes provided educational opportunities in multiple fields, including forages, cereals, pest management, weed control, beef production and potato education. The 2020 Spanish Potato School offered education for agricultural workers from multiple western United States and Mexico. These educational opportunities would not have been possible without a virtual format.
4-H in Jefferson County UI Extension, Jefferson County has a strong 4-H program. A big accomplishment for 2020 was the fact that the 4-H program kept going amid pandemic restrictions. County 4-H assistants, Sue Walker and Amanda Hickman, offered many day camps, livestock lessons, and workshops. A summer camp was offered at the fairgrounds with activities during the three-day camp but no overnight stays. The county 4-H and FFA portion of the fair continued with modifications at both the Rigby and Mud Lake fairs.
On the Horizon Dye will continue to teach classes in the areas of food preservation, cooking trends and a smoking and grilling class. University of Idaho Extension will continue to provide educational opportunities to farmers in Jefferson County and respond to local needs as they arrive.
EXTENSION TRENDS: JEROME COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Jerome County • www.uidaho.edu/jerome
2020 Impact The major focus for the UI Extension, Jerome County agriculture program is the application of cover crops into rotational cropping systems. The number of acres planted to cover crops continues to grow in the Magic Valley. According to the 2017 Ag Census, the Magic Valley has the highest percentage of cover crop acres in Idaho and that acreage increased from 2012 to 2017. Field demonstration trials and presentations help growers answer questions and find solutions for the application of cover crops. This work is done in partnership with other Extension educators, NRCS, and Soil and Water Conservation Districts.
2020 By the Numbers • 1,976 direct contacts • 547 youth participants • 35 volunteers • $578,945 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Jerome County: Debbie Hartley, Laurie Lickley, Michelle Emerson, Charles Howell, Ben Crouch, John Crozier, Gary Warr, Becky Warr, Jack Nelson, Brady Fife, Tianna Fife, Jim Patrick, Clark Kauffman, Roger Wells, Kim Lickley, Donna Gillespie, Kyli Gough, Amy Worthington, Doug Huettig, Dara Carpenter, Andrea Wiesenmeyer, Kyle Gough and Eddee Gallegos.
UI Extension Educators Steven Hines 208-324-7578 shines@uidaho.edu
Gretchen Manker 208-324-7578 gretchenm@uidaho.edu
In 2020, 67% of parents in the Juntos 4-H program attended family engagement workshops and other events while students reported that their parents engaged in supportive parenting behaviors regularly showing a positive shift over the course of the year.
4-H in Jerome County The Jerome County 4-H program never stopped moving forward in a digital form throughout the early part of the year. Although the overall look of the program was different, everyone did their part and pulled together. A face-to-face County Fair was held while implementing all safety protocols. The youth were champions throughout the entire year. The Juntos Sustainable Community Project is a collaboration between North Carolina State University and is a CYFAR program funded by USDA NIFA. Juntos means "Together" in Spanish. The program mission is to empower Latinx 8th-12th grade students and their parents to gain the knowledge, skills and resources to promote high school graduation and higher education. In Jerome County, Juntos is provided as an in-school elective course with bi-weekly 4-H clubs along with family engagement workshops. Juntos served 81 youth and 75 Latinx families in 2020.
On the Horizon UI Extension Educator Steven Hines is starting the second year of a demonstration interseeding cover crop into corn that is grown on wide row spacing. The first year of demonstration showed that corn silage yield can be maintained and additional forage for grazing can be produced and ready for use as soon as the corn is harvested. After this years results, the project will be scaled up on a producers farm. Educator Gretchen Manker will continue to work with the Jerome School District’s Migrant Summer School through the Cooking 101 program to provide basic cooking and food safety education. She will also continue to work with the Idaho School of the Deaf and the Blind in the Independent Living Skills course on nutrition, cooking skills and finance. The first group of Juntos students will graduate from high school in 2022.
EXTENSION TRENDS: KOOTENAI COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Kootenai County • www.uidaho.edu/kootenai
2020 Impact UI Extension, Kootenai County offers forestry, family and consumer sciences (FCS), home horticulture, water quality, and 4-H youth development programming and education.
2020 By the Numbers • 11,103 direct contacts • 8,953 youth participants • 249 volunteers • 4,700 volunteer hours • $329,488 extramural funding
UI Extension Educators Shelly Johnson 208-292-2525 sjohnson@uidaho.edu
Chris Schnepf 208-292-2525 cschnepf@uidaho.edu Sharla Wilson 208-292-2525 swilson@uidaho.edu Jim Ekins 208-292-1287 jekins@uidaho.edu
FCS programs focus on nutrition, wellness and obesity prevention. The UI Extension Eat Smart Idaho program in the northern district is managed by Kootenai County and focuses efforts on access to healthier foods targeted at low-income families. Programming includes the Smarter Lunchroom Movement in three school districts, Healthy Food Pantry/ Healthy Food Drive initiatives supporting many North Idaho pantries, the Long Live Idaho Campaign and various other projects helping families make healthier choices in nutrition and physical activity. In 2020, FCS programs helped over 8,800 youth and adults establish healthy eating habits and a physically active lifestyle. Participants showed improvement in dietary knowledge or practices, use of food resource management, food safety, physical activity and an improved sense of food security. In fall 2020, educator Shelly Johnson and the Eat Smart Idaho team worked with nine University of Idaho dietetic interns, training them on ESI curricula and working out details so they could offer education to audiences at the Boys and Girls Club in Post Falls, Coeur d'Alene, and at Venture Alternative High School. At each location, interns offered a series of six nutrition education classes and worked in groups of three to provide education and hands-on learning. Johnson also provided the interns with direct teaching opportunities in the Coeur d’Alene area. For locations not allowing outside visitors, Johnson led the interns in offering online lessons on Mindful Eating at Canfield and Woodland Middle Schools and creating nutrition education videos on specific subjects such as Think Your Drink, Careers in Dietetics, and Eat to Compete, which were shared at various locations. The interns also helped launch Eat Smart Idaho’s presence on TikTok with recipe videos. Johnson was honored by the Idaho Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics with the Gem Award, which recognizes non-members who promote and encourage good health with an emphasis on sound nutrition habits through efforts to educate the public. 4-H in Kootenai County continued to thrive in spite of COVID-19 disruptions. Several spring activities were canceled or modified due to restrictions and health precautions, but some creative and virtual engagement opportunities were developed to engage with youth. Member and volunteer enrollments were slightly down, likely due to COVID restrictions going into place near the end of the traditional fair eligibility enrollment window. In 2020, 888 youth members and 236 volunteers were enrolled, compared to 916 and 242 in 2019, respectively. Even with the reduced numbers, the Kootenai/Shoshone 4-H program remained the largest club program in Idaho. More than 109 forest owners, loggers and professional foresters attended 2020 UI Extension forestry programs held in Kootenai County, including The Forestry Shortcourse and Family Foresters Workshop. Kootenai
County residents also attended Extension forestry programs held in adjacent panhandle counties. In 2020, programs on forest health, fire risk reduction for homes located in the wildland urban interface, and a multi-faceted program, 10 Acres and a Dream, were offered via Zoom with over 316 participants, including many from Kootenai County. Currently, 13 Kootenai County forest owners are certified UI Extension volunteers with the Idaho Master Forest Stewards, who provided nearly 300 hours of volunteer service in the Idaho Panhandle in 2020.
The North Idaho State Fair was canceled, but 4-H competitions and shows were still held. A total of 716 4-H members exhibited items with a total of 1,452 total entries. Stock sales brought in just under $1 million in support and purchases of animals. In 2020, the Kootenai County 4-H program had three AmeriCorps members (1 full time and 2 quarter time) who helped deliver programming in afterschool and short-term settings. The AmeriCorps members helped develop STEM lesson plans and short videos that families at home could take advantage of, items that will be useful for years to come.
On the Horizon A move to a new office in October 2020 will allow the 4-H program to add a STEM lab for enrolled 4-H members and youth participating in short-term and special interest 4-H programming including summer day camps. This new opportunity will help educate the community about all of the possibilities and opportunities in the 4-H program. This new resource will also allow for connecting to new groups in the community. The 4-H program will also be working on a join activity between 4-H and Idaho Master Gardeners to help Coeur d' Alene become a Bee City.
4-H in Kootenai County Traditionally, 4-H horse members are required to participate in a horse knowledge-based activity, often with an opportunity to advance onto state and potentially national contests. Traditional county events were not held in 2020 and state and national events were canceled or made virtual. Kootenai County opted to reconfigure the county requirement to a knowledge activity that could easily be offered at summer horse events and during regular office hours. This was a successful way to maintain the knowledge activity while still being safe with members.
Idaho Master Forest Stewards continue to help UI Extension reach more family forest owners. They also inform the forestry community about family forest owners' needs and help guide University of Idaho Extension and research programs and technical assistance efforts of public and privately employed foresters. Their guidance will help shape the variety of Extension programs offered to forest owners. As a result of the COVID-19 crisis, more programs will likely be offered remotely via the internet as a new way of providing forestry education to forest owners, loggers and professional foresters.
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers, organizations, and agencies who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Kootenai County.
EXTENSION TRENDS: LATAH COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Latah County • www.uidaho.edu/latah
2020 Impact Once the pandemic hit, Educator Karen Richel immediately offered classes via Zoom. Guest speakers were organized to teach Retirement: What Now? and Medicare 101. A total of 147 participants attended 10 different classes. The classes were also recorded and posted on the UI Extension, Latah County website where they continue to be viewed and resources downloaded. Many stakeholders love this feature since they can’t always come to the live event.
2020 By the Numbers • 6,821 direct contacts • 2,513 youth participants • 93 volunteers • 715 volunteer hours • $47,000 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who inform the work we do for UI Extension in Latah County: Randy Baukol, Kim Vogel, Jenny Ford, Vicky Leeper, Tony Bonuccelli, Rusty Schatz, Marlys Wilson, Julie Stafford, Kelsie Smathers, BJ Swanson, DeDe Wassmuth, Jennifer Wallace, Diane Noel, Tim Steury, Jen Eliot, Jodi, McClory, Alison Detjens, Coco Umiker, Karl Umiker, Guy Spencer, Jenny Parker, Tammi Johnson, Tina Bass, Kim Monk, Stephanie Fletcher and Jennifer Ashmead.
UI Extension Educators Sara Fluer 208-883-2267 sfluer@uidaho.edu
Iris Mayes 208-883-2267 imayes@uidaho.edu
Karen Richel 208-883-2241 krichel@uidaho.edu
Richel worked with other UI Extension educators in 2020 to create the Don’t Corona My Cash series. Each educator presented two of the eight classes to a statewide Zoom audience with Richel teaching When Your Income Drops to 51 participants and Stress and Finances to 55 participants. Richel also helped manage the UI Extension Personal Finance Facebook page with financial tips, research points, memes, quotes, quizzes and facts. The frequent posts have increased the number of followers. Richel spent much of her time money coaching individuals and groups through COVID-19 related challenges. Because of this program, clients have changed jobs, gone back to school, retired, bought their dream property, re-evaluated dreams and learned to work together as a couple. She worked with 27 individuals and conducted three eight-week groups along with individual meetings. The UI Extension, Latah County Small Farms and Horticulture program helps train community members in sustainable practices, such as soil composting and growing vegetables to improve the health of the environment and citizens. In 2020, the Harvest Heroes program that trains U.S. Military Veterans in small acreage sustainable farming was moved online and reached additional veterans around the state and the country. Eat Smart Idaho conducted nutrition demonstrations with the Troy Food Bank, J-K Good Samaritan Food Bank in Kendrick, the Salvation Army Food Bank and The Community Action Food Bank in Lewiston. Carina Valtierra was able to create connections with all four food banks and was able to distribute important handouts and useful recipes to patrons within these communities.
4-H in Latah County Throughout 2020, the Latah County 4-H program adapted to the challenges presented by COVID-19 by shifting to virtual programs, engaging youth with technology when in-person connection was not possible. The 4-H program welcomed five new certified 4-H volunteers who expanded project offerings to include goat, forestry, llama, crafts and leadership. To close the year, 4-H was able to host a private event showcasing the accomplishments of youth projects in place of a formal county fair. Prior to COVID-19, Latah County 4-H forged a new partnership with the WSU College of Veterinary Science student ambassadors to bring
presentations on important animal science topics to youth. During the spring of 2020, when families were staying at home, Latah County 4-H continued to provide engagement opportunities through at-home activities and sharing resources across state lines to support youth development. Youth successfully utilized Idaho's new record book system to create and deliver higher quality record books. The cancellation of the Latah County Fair resulted in the development of a very successful private 4-H general project, livestock weekend and virtual market animal sale. The 2020 year presented many unforeseen challenges that allowed 4-H members to demonstrate outstanding leadership, citizenship and care for their communities.
On the Horizon Richel will return to schools in Latah County with various activities. For kindergarten and 1st grade, she will be offering the Spend, Save and Share Piggy Bank class and the Creative Chore Chart class. Teachers are already signing up for these events. Students in 7-12th grade in Potlatch, Genesee, Deary/Kendrick and Troy will participate in the That's Life simulation. Richel will also host a live Our Financial Conference along with sponsors Latah Credit Union, Idaho Central Credit Union and many more. This will impact all residents in northern Idaho. She will also continue to work with colleagues on different projects and offer corporate money coaching as a new option. Eat Smart Idaho will be conducting nutrition classes with the Palouse Care Network, YWCA, Boys and Girls Club in Lewiston and Coeur d'Alene, and with the adult learning center. Eat Smart Idaho will have a booth at the Moscow Farmers Market to distribute important handouts and helpful recipes. As Idaho transitions back to pre-pandemic life, Latah County 4-H will be moving forward with plans to return to a summer overnight camp in cooperation with neighboring counties in northcentral Idaho. Plans are underway for a full, in-person county fair, along with the return of regularly scheduled in-person activities. Programming will be further expanded through the service of an AmeriCorps Youth Development Instructor, who will be working with the City of Moscow, local library branches and other community partners to provide quality STEM programs to youth.
EXTENSION TRENDS: LEMHI COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Lemhi County • www.uidaho.edu/lemhi
2020 Impact 2020 was a challenging year with programming delivered more creatively. As part of Educator Shannon Williams' assignment for Salmon School Garden, she built 240 “take-home” kits for fourth and second grade students so they could experience the garden during the stay-athome order. Most of the Ag Week activities and educational events were able to happen before the school closed due to COVID-19. Only Salmon fifth grade and eighth grade were not able to participate. Williams and Educator Katie McFarland teamed up with Dr. Sara Chaplin to put together recommendations for ranches holding brandings to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. McFarland also taught four educational videos on Facebook live, with 2,289 total views.
2020 By the Numbers • 1,176 direct contacts • 538 youth participants • 99 volunteers • 792 volunteer hours • $2,500 extramural funding
UI Extension Educators Shannon Williams 208-742-1696 shannonw@uidaho.edu
Katie McFarland 208-742-1698 khoffman@uidaho.edu
4-H in Lemhi County The Lemhi County 4-H programfaced some challenges in 2020 due to COVID-19, but still had a successful year. Livestock weigh-ins looked different and 4-H advisory meetings were conducted online. Once the stay-at-home order was lifted, a project camp and days camps were held with modifications in place. A record attendance of 70 youth participated at the Super Meeting.
On the Horizon McFarland is excited about a partnership with Salmon's Drug Free Youth to develop youth leadership skills. As part of the Salmon School Garden committee, programs in the garden are expanding to include home school families and charter school youth. The office will be conducting a leadership training needs assessment in the fall with non-profits and volunteer organizations to determine training needs for 2022.
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Lemhi County: Brett Barsalou, Merrill Beyeler, Curtis Beyeler, Mark Brown, Kim Browne, Jeff Burch, Hailey Burch, Sara Chaplin, Piper Christiansen, Jo Christiansen, Katie Cooper, Tristan Cooper, Keelan Cooper, Dana Cotton, Jeremy Drake, Haley Drake, Jocilynn Drake, Sherry Elrod, Amy Fealko, Paul Fisher, Barb Fisher, Trissi Herbst, Drew Herbst, Shayne Holmes, Melody Kauer, Mike Kossler, Merry Logan, Juniper MacFarlane, Leah Madsen, Shane Matson, Seth McFarland, Kenny Miner, Myriam Mualem, Frances Mueller, Bruce Mulkey, Renee Myer, Paula Pharris, Beth Rackham, Kevin Ramsey, Toni Ruth, Trey Sapp, Whitney Sapp, Maggie Seaberg, Sue Sherwood, Katie Slavin, Jen Smith, Rick Snyder, Caleb Wallace, Brittany Wallace, Tom Whitson, Carrie Whitson, Chase Whittaker, Ariana Williams and Jake Zollinger.
EXTENSION TRENDS: LEWIS COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Lewis County • www.uidaho.edu/lewis
2020 Impact Crop programs provided by UI Extension, Lewis County help farmers receive annual information on variety trials and other U of I crop research through cereal schools, crop tours and educational certification for pesticide applicator's licensing. The 2020 Prairie Area Cereal School at Greencreek was well attended. Farmers learned up-to-date information about varieties, weed control and disease, and insect management. The 2020 Prairie Area Crop and Conservation Tour was offered as a self-tour.
2020 By the Numbers • 1,011 direct contacts • 165 youth participants • 42 volunteers • 610 volunteer hours • $4,160 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Lewis County: Jeanna Meacham, Sheri Fowler, Patti Watson, Michelle Koepl, Mary Duuck, Shiloh Hand, DeeDee Morris, Marty Lux, Clark Tacke, Brent Uhlorn and Andy Baldus.
UI Extension Educator Ken Hart 208-937-2311 khart@uidaho.edu
The 2020 growing season was the third and final year of the North Central Idaho annual forage study. The results of this study have been published in popular press and will soon be available as a UI Extension Bulletin. Starting Your Sustainable Small Farm, a UI Extension Cultivating Success workshop, was held in Grangeville, helping Lewis and Idaho County small acreage farmers.
4-H in Lewis County The UI Extension, Lewis County 4-H program is an important youth development program in the county with nearly half of eligible youth enrolled in the program. Youth not enrolled in 4-H are also impacted through support of FFA, the North Central Idaho Farm and Forest Fair, and the Spring into 4-H Fun Day. While the 2020 CL2N 4-H Camp had to be cancelled, UI Extension educators and 4-H coordinators continued to plan and act to make sure camp could take place in 2021. The 2020 Lewis County Fair was held in person, with minimal modifications and accommodations. Market Animal programs are outstanding and strongly supported by the community. This was a year loaded with challenges for 4-H programs and 4-H youth and families, however, youth and families, supported by 4-H staff and Extension educators, stepped up to meet these challenges with creative ideas, Zoom meetings, and many other adaptations. An example is the 2020 Lewis County 4-H Horse Show. A few days before the show, the UI Extension, Lewis County office was informed by law enforcement of a threat to public safety at our fairgrounds arena on the day of our horse show. Leaders and staff quickly identified an alternate location at a private arena. Everyone worked together to move equipment and people to the new location for a successful Lewis County Horse Show!
On the Horizon A number of north central Idaho women farmers participated in the inaugural north Idaho session of Annie's Project, an all-women course fostering problem solving, record keeping, and decision-making skills, with a focus on production, legal, market, human and financial risks faced by farmers and ranchers. A second class of this program will be offered. Idaho Master Gardeners will be training new volunteers this fall in Idaho County. A new UI Extension Bulletin, Spring Annual Forage Hay Production in North Central Idaho, is in in the works to be published.
EXTENSION TRENDS: LINCOLN COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Lincoln County • www.uidaho.edu/lincoln
2020 Impact Outreach efforts were expanded in 2020 by incorporating more online and virtual experiences for UI Extension audiences, while connecting with the local Lincoln County audience when appropriate. The UI Extension Sheep and Goat webinar series was expanded to involve speakers from across the West, bringing information to local and statewide audiences. An educational opportunity for farm women called Annie's Project was offered in the county bringing people together to increase their farm business management knowledge.
2020 By the Numbers • 2,500 direct contacts • 100 youth participants • 25 volunteers • 500 volunteer hours
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Lincoln County.
UI Extension Educator Carmen Willmore 208-886-2406 cwillmore@uidaho.edu
4-H in Lincoln County The Lincoln County 4-H program provides an opportunity for Lincoln County youth to learn life skills such as caring for animals, cooking, baking, sewing, archery, robotics and public speaking. Highlights for 2020 included a Sheep and Goat Education Day, Know Your Government and Teen Camp Out. A 4-H Cupcake Wars competition was hosted at the Lincoln County Fair where participants decorated cupcakes using the fair theme.
On the Horizon UI Extension, Lincoln County will continue to expand youth programming in the county to include more audiences. Plans are also underway to conduct research on summer cover crop usage for grazing and other crops suited for drought and dry year conditions.
EXTENSION TRENDS: MADISON COUNTY University of Idaho Extension, Madison County • www.uidaho.edu/madison
2020 Impact Several UI Extension, Madison County programs had a significant impact in the community in 2020, including Employment Feud, Welcome to the Real-World Workbook, Cooking Under Pressure for Youth, Farm Stress Management, Farm Management, and Farm Succession Planning. Over 100 Madison County youth participated in financial literacy programs, learning how to find employment, budget, and the benefits of a good credit score.
2020 By the Numbers • 6,597 direct contacts • 3,228 youth participants • 30 volunteers • 420 volunteer hours • $31,508 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Madison County: Will Ricks, Cheryl Empey, Catherine Stanton, Richard Larsen, Noelle Taylor, Gale Harding, Brent Mendenhall and Doug Smith.
UI Extension Educator Lance Hansen 208-359-6297 lancehansen@uidaho.edu
Agriculture community members learned best business practices through online farm management classes. Farm Succession Planning classes have been in high demand to help local farmers and ranchers make plans to sell or pass their operations to the next generation. Having the classes online in 2020 allowed for more audience participation. This program helps provide the groundwork needed to take proper steps that ensure the family farm is taken care of and passed to the next generation. Farm Stress Management is an important program to help local farmers handle and deal with the mounting stress they face due to the economic challenges in agriculture. This program will continue to be taught in Madison County and across the state. The UI Extension, Madison County office will continue to seek guidance from local community members to develop and bring programs that will benefit residents.
4-H in Madison County The 4-H program in Madison County continues to grow, even with setbacks related to the pandemic. A safe and socially distanced 4-H camp was held, the county fair was well attended, livestock shows were competitive, and all participants did an admirable job with their animals, demonstrations and presentations. 4-H projects covered topics including sewing, photography, hiking, drones and cooking. A lot of work was put into the fair and day camp to ensure that all federal and state COVID-19 regulations were followed. The 4-H program is always looking to include and expand programs to reach a diverse audience in the county.
On the Horizon
The UI Extension, Madison County office will continue to ensure programs are safely provided to impact the lives of clients, 4-H youth and all members of the community. Educator Lance Hansen will continue to work with statewide colleagues to offer research-based information on the UI Extension Personal Finance Facebook page and will continue to promote the LifeSmarts youth educational program in Madison County. Mental Health First Aid classes will be offered to help create awareness around this critical topic and break down stigmas surrounding mental illness and suicide. Another program area that is currently being developed is retirement and social security benefits for farmers and ranchers. Retirement is a hot topic and essential for Idaho farmers and ranchers who find they are not eligible for social security retirement benefits. Another new program will address the importance of retirement planning.
EXTENSION TRENDS: MINIDOKA COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Minidoka County • www.uidaho.edu/minidoka
2020 Impact UI Extension educator Becky Hutchings was invited as a keynote speaker to teach her successful Cooking Under Pressure program to the statewide North Dakota Nutrition Council, prior to the pandemic. COVID-19 allowed the UI Extension, Minidoka County office the opportunity to look to other avenues to deliver programming. Hutchings conducted sev-en major programs through Zoom to deliver programming to Minidoka County community members. These online classes were well received and greatly attended. Hutchings was published 32 times in two printed newspapers and 27 times in various digital articles/newsletters.
2020 By the Numbers • 11,911 direct contacts • 371 youth participants • 88 volunteers • 2,640 volunteer hours • $46,900 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Minidoka County: Susi McCall, Vicky Edgar, Connie Studer, Chris Joyce, Donna Harper, Dixie Tate, Kathleen Whitlock, Heather Hepworth, Nikki Kent, Staci Joyce, Lori Johnson, Wendy Beedle, Diana Wheeler, Mary Andersen, Clayton Beene, Troy Draper, Jessica Stapelman, Justin Studer, Tawnya Tracy, Russ Suchan, Brian Kossman, Lanae Nalder, Salvador Moreno and Jeff Miller.
UI Extension Educators Becky Hutchings 208-436-7184 bhutchings@uidaho.edu
Jason Thomas 208-436-7184 jasont@uidaho.edu
In agricultural programs, educator Jason Thomas quickly pivoted to help guide the technical needs of online classes and workshops. This included the Idaho Cereal School, Idaho Ag Outlook, Potato Conference-Spanish Session, Bean School, and Western Cover Crop Council trainings. More than 637 attendees participated in these programs. A large amount of time was dedicated to convert these traditionally in-person classes to online webinars. Thomas also teamed up with UI Extension, Blaine County Educator Grant Loomis to design a game, Pest Friends, to teach farmers and pest managers the principles of integrated pest management. He continues to investigate the utility of barn owls in vole management and vole monitoring techniques.
4-H in Minidoka County
4-H programs were shifted online or alternative delivery methods due to COVID-19. Hutchings, Thomas and 4-H program coordinator Jeni Bywater worked with UI Extension colleagues to provide Zoom into 4-H, which allowed youth in the Central District the opportunity to attend 4-H meetings (six are required per year to show at fair). A total of 458 sites participated in 10 meetings. These classes were tailored to introduce youth to the various programs that 4-H offers. Thomas also shifted some programs online by hosting a three-day virtual field trip about insects for the Tech Trep Academy, an online public school with many students in the Rupert area. Over 1,447 students registered, reaching a wide variety of students. Despite the pandemic, the county fair had high attendance, participation, and the highest grossing livestock sale to date. The awards night was converted into a drive through awards ceremony, which was a great success with high attendance.
On the Horizon
Hutchings will pilot a statewide Idaho 4-H project for Cooking Under Pressure as well as develop and establish a Teen Chef Academy in Minidoka County. She will continue to expand her Dorm Room Chef program and her Cooking Under Pressure program by offering Freezer Meal and Meal Preparation classes. New partnerships, including the new Boys and Girls Club in Rupert and the Minidoka County School District’s Service Program for Migrant Families, will open doors to new youth audiences in the county. Grant funding will allow Thomas to investigate vole monitoring techniques like thermal imaging, live trapping and camera traps. He is also pursuing a grant to mass produce the Pest Friends board game.
EXTENSION TRENDS: NEZ PERCE COUNTY University of Idaho Extension, Nez Perce County • www.uidaho.edu/nezperce
2020 Impact
The Banana Belt Backyard Gardening program has been provided in Nez Perce County for approximately 40 years and Educator Kathee Tifft has provided the program since 2013. In 2020, participants from four north central Idaho and southeast Washington counties attended classes on pruning fruit trees and transplanting tomatoes. Tifft partners with WSU Asotin and Whitman County Extension educators to provide the Beginning Master Gardener certification training program in even years. Three new Master Gardeners were trained for the Nez Perce County program. Tifft also presented at national conferences on the use of photomapping as a participatory action research tool. Horticulture Associate Mary Busch coordinated the Diagnostic Plant Clinic, supervised Master Gardener volunteers and led the landscape update project in the xeriscape demonstration garden.
2020 By the Numbers • 1,316 direct contacts • 384 youth participants • 79 volunteers • 2,680 volunteer hours • $37,000 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Nez Perce County: Maria Garvey, Phil Shinn, Bill Furstenau, Shawn Smith, Janis Forsmann, Carol Thompson, Betty Peters, Craig Hall and Tom Conklin.
UI Extension Educators Kathee Tifft 208-799-3096 ktifft@uidaho.edu
Doug Finkelnburg 208-799-3096 dougf@uidaho.edu
Area Educator Doug Finkelnburg developed presentations for pesticide recertification, co-authored several publications and abstracts, and hosted a cereal school and virtual crop tour. He presented a soil-liming exercise at WSU’s Wheat Academy; presented on annual forages for haying and grazing in Bonner County; taught two Master Gardener training sessions; presented on herbicide resistant weeds at an Idaho Wheat Commission sponsored Direct Seeders Meeting; and organized an interstate working group of weed scientists, producers, and stakeholders to address regional herbicide resistant weed problems. He concluded two alternative forage production trials in Idaho and Lewis counties.
4-H in Nez Perce County A total of 105 youth and adults attended the 4-H beef field day.The Idaho/Washington multi-county 4-H and community development planning team will hold virtual livestock field days next year highlighting beef, swine, lamb and market goats. 4-H Coordinator Judy Floch organized skill clinics for animal project members, including a steer clipping clinic for members to learn how to properly wash and clip their steer. 4-H poultry project members gained experience holding and showing their birds and learned how to wash and groom them for exhibit. Rabbit and cavy members learned how to correctly handle their pet and practiced techniques to utilize at the fair.
On the Horizon
Tifft plans to add segments on home modification and mental health first aid for older adults to the healthy aging program she is developing. She continues to write scripts for short videos on leadership topics to assist rural communities in addressing rural challenges and change. Finkelnburg will continue to emphasize pesticide applicator training and recertification opportunities as well as herbicide resistant weed mitigation efforts. He is pursuing grant proposals to work on cover crop integration in cereal production systems, and community-based herbicide resistant weed management. Shawna Hobson, administrative assistant and Master Food Safety advisor, is planning demonstrations and hands-on food preservation and safety classes for summer/fall 2021. The series will showcase a variety of preservation techniques including fermentation, pickling, water-bath canning, and dehydration. Participants will learn the science behind and gain experience in making sauerkraut, pickled eggs, jams, jellies and jerky.
EXTENSION TRENDS: ONEIDA COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Oneida County • www.uidaho.edu/oneida
2020 Impact Much of 2020 was spent without an Extension educator. Pandemic protocol also reduced opportunity for program delivery. One in-person/ online beef school was held and was well attended. The UI Extension, Oneida County staff also helped collect data for a regional study on grazing effects on cheatgrass. One study site is located in Oneida County.
4-H in Oneida County The Oneida County 4-H program introduced a new form of 4-H through monthly 4-H Friday activities in 2020. A new macrame class was offered with great participation and will continue to be offered in the future. In fall 2020 an informational meeting for the 2021 4-H giant pumpkin contest was held. The 4-H program also participated in an introductory dabble in dissection class where participants dissected grasshoppers, worms and crayfish.
On the Horizon
2020 By the Numbers • 156 direct contacts • 141 youth participants • 28 volunteers • 168 volunteer hours • $50 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Oneida County: Becky and Ken Moss, Larry Ward, Regene Jones, Bill Lewis, Holly Llewellyn, Donna Potter and Josh Paskett.
The UI Extension, Oneida County office will soon be fully staffed with an Extension educator. Several horticulture classes are scheduled for 2021. 4-H participants will benefit from new clubs in wildlife, cloverbuds and growing giant pumpkins.
EXTENSION TRENDS: OWYHEE COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Owyhee County • www.uidaho.edu/owyhee
2020 Impact
Educator Surine Greenway is the facilitator of the Marsing Health Coalition, and in 2020 programming emphasis shifted to prioritize health-based factors in the community. The coalition developed a logo representative of efforts on teen vaping and smoking prevention education. In addition to wellness-focused work, food preservation workshops were offered. As food handling and food preservation practices expanded in 2020, so did the potential risk for foodborne illness incidents in the home. To combat this, many research-based workshops for clientele to easily access were provided.
2020 By the Numbers • 4,226 direct contacts • 1,109 youth participants • 58 volunteers • 3,240 volunteer hours • $506,100 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Owyhee County: Jake & Megan Astorquia, Lynn Bachman, Scott Bunderson, Lath Calloway, Patty Dalrymple, Russ & Deidre Erwin, Jessica Eubanks, Will & Heather Field, Jana Goodwin, Jolyn Green, Jerry Hoagland, Brad & Mary Huff, Kelly Ineck, Rosa Jacabo, Sharla Jensen, Nick Ketterling, Tim Little, Ginger Loucks, Brad McIntyre, Joe Merrick, Janet Miller, Annie Miller, Chad Nettleton, Ken Price, Doug Rutan, Chad Sevy, Gina Showalter, Connie Stahle, Lorna Steiner, Norm Stewart, Jana Streibel, Dave Tindall, Paunee Uberuaga, Nic Usabel and Olga Valero.
UI Extension Educators K. Scott Jensen 208-896-4104 scottj@uidaho.edu
Surine Greenway 208-896-4104 surineg@uidaho.edu
Agriculture, livestock and range programming focused on improving pasture management for producers, which equates to reduced input costs and increased productivity. Programs resulted in 56 new Beef Quality Assurance certifications and re-certifications. A total of 23 individuals were trained/certified in artificial insemination with eight of those also completing the Idaho State Department of Agriculture AI licensing exam. Two Smoking and Grilling programs were offered collaboratively by Greenway and Educator Scott Jensen. Participants receive a lecture, demonstration, and hands-on education to trim, season, and cook their own beef and pork meat cuts. In addition, a live trimming demonstration is performed, and a fully cooked brisket is sampled, along with other smoked food samples like cheese, pepper jam, and cheesecake. This program structure contributes to knowledge, skill, and confidence in participants, all while increasing food preparation in the home.
4-H in Owyhee County
Traditional 4-H livestock projects continue to be the backbone of 4-H participation in Owyhee County. In 2020, 262 youth (4-H & FFA) exhibited and sold livestock at the Owyhee County Fair for a total of $427,300. Numerous youth also exhibited small animals, family and consumer sciences, and miscellaneous projects. The Youth Cooking Under Pressure, Healthy Living, and Youth Entrepreneurship programs all continue to surge in popularity. Youth report increased knowledge and positive behavior change as they make better food choices. They also consider starting their own business and factors associated with this potential venture and share information with their families, extending the program's impact beyond the lesson. Handwashing opportunities continue to be offered to all school districts to educate, create healthy habits, and lead to healthier individuals.
On the Horizon
As the Smoking and Grilling program that provides cross-discipline expertise for consumers continues to be successfully implemented in Owyhee County, more programs will continue to be structured. Part of this work has expanded to interest from colleagues to have this program offered in their region of Idaho. A youth-focused program surrounding this content is currently being designed with potential implementation in the spring.
EXTENSION TRENDS: PAYETTE COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Payette County • www.uidaho.edu/payette
2020 Impact
UI Extension, Payette County focused on being a conduit for good communication during the time of isolation, economic uncertainty and apprehension for many Payette County families. In response to community needs, an emergency food directory was developed that included local food pantries, school “grab and go” sites, and Senior Center Meals-on-Wheels. The information was shared through social media and with local partners who serve the most vulnerable residents. Programming efforts shifted from in-person to virtual. Eat Smart Idaho Nutrition Educator, Rebecca Luna, offered a series of online adult classes through Facebook using pre-recorded lessons. Luna gained adult participation and was able to graduate 75% of attendees.
2020 By the Numbers • 3,234 direct contacts • 341 youth participants • 126 volunteers • 506 volunteer hours • $33,825 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Payette County: Tom Allmaras, Barbara Brody, Danny Gabiola, Freda Lee, Claudia Licht, Janie Llanas, Clay Ritter and JoAnne Smith..
UI Extension Educators Karie Boone 208-642-6022 kboone@uidaho.edu
Joey Peutz 208-642-6022 joeyp@uidaho.edu
Research shows that the economic, social and environmental conditions in the communities where we live, work and play also factor into our ability to live healthy lifestyles. Educator Joey Peutz has been active in supporting Teen 4-H Health Advocates as they play a role in driving positive health change. Trainings and activities were held virtually. Peutz offered Preserve@Home, an online, five-week home food preservation course. She has continued to answer food preservation questions and help source canning resources, such as home canning lids, that have been in high demand and limited supply.
4-H in Payette County
The 4-H program in Payette County had a new look in 2020 due to the pandemic. Meetings were held via Zoom, which was a new experience for many with a steep learning curve. Payette County 4-H Leader’s Association did experience an increase in meeting attendance. Many other events and workshops were held virtually such as Cayuse Camp (equine education), animal science lessons, and the Know Your Government conference. Payette County hosted a summer AmeriCorps member who delivered summer day camp programming. Participants received a box of supplies for each workshop and the STEM lessons were delivered virtually. A highlight for the 4-H program was an embryology display at the Payette County Fair, showcasing various species of eggs hatching. This display was a big hit with both youth and adult community members, some expressing it was the highlight of the fair. People came to watch them after they had been removed from the incubator into a larger pen and introduced to food, water and kept warm.
On the Horizon
Payette County 4-H received a grant though the Idaho Space Consortium for soil from Mars to grow a small plot of produce. Ten 4-H members will participate in the project. Peutz plans on continuing to be a conduit for good evidence-based communication and education through a collaborative immunization engagement and teaching grant. She is motivated to build confidence by providing information needed to make an informed decision and giving residents an opportunity to share concerns.
EXTENSION TRENDS: POWER COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Power County • www.uidaho.edu/power
2020 Impact
Educator Terrell Sorensen worked with several other UI Extension educators to organize pesticide recertification programs in eight locations in southeast Idaho. He also helped organize the Idaho Noxious Weed Conference with 215 participants each earning seven recertification credits. The Idaho Outlook Seminar was held online and Sorensen gave an update on the water outlook for Idaho.
2020 By the Numbers • 3,535 direct contacts • 624 youth participants • 24 volunteers • 156 volunteer hours • $5,00 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Power County: Ken Koompin, David Zimmerman, Jerome Clinger, Kim West and Steve Isaak.
UI Extension Educator Terrell Sorensen 208-745-7621 tsorensen@uidaho.edu
A Science Day was held at the J.R. Simplot Elementary School covering several different subjects for six 5th grade classes, including the Owl Lady who brought in her barn owl to show students. Sorenson returned to the school later in the year to work with children building 15 barn owl boxes to be used in the county. Farm Management classes were held before the COVID-19 lock down and Cereal School was taught in four locations. Sorenson taught about CREP, which is a ground set aside program for irrigators that would let them fallow ground for 15 years. The program is in conjunction with the 2016 Surface Water-Groundwater users agreement. During the lockdown several county residents began working on yard improvement and started gardens. These individuals were assisted through online classes followed by in-person visits when restrictions were lifted.
4-H in Power County
The highlight for 2020 was being able to successfully hold the county fair and livestock sale. A lot of work and thought was put into how to safely hold the events, including several planning meetings, purchasing cleaning supplies, and eliminating unnecessary events. The sale was very successful, with both online and in-person options.
On the Horizon
Sorenson is working on an Excel program to help farmers calculate how much water they will use on their farm each year. With this program they can use different cropping acreages and figure out what amount of water they will need or use for that particular set of crops. Along with it they can calculate their revenue and variable costs. It could be a very useful tool for farmers.
EXTENSION TRENDS: TETON COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Teton County • www.uidaho.edu/teton
2020 Impact
UI Extension, Teton County hosted new events and classes such as the 12-week Idaho Master Gardener course and a three-part Cultivating Success whole farm planning course. Of the 19 clients that registered for the Master Gardener course, five completed all requirements including 30+ hours of community service in 2020 (over 150 hours of volunteer time resulted in an in-kind value of over $4,000). The Cultivating Success course attracted 21 clients and an additional 30 clients enrolled in an online High-Altitude Victory Garden course.
2020 By the Numbers • 3,017 direct contacts • 815 youth participants • 39 volunteers • 2,000 volunteer hours • $9,841 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Teton County: 4-H Advisory Council: Hailey Beard, Katie Murdock, Missy Matkin, Regina Beard, and Tracy Beebe. Extension Advisory Council: Elaine Johnson, Cindy Riegel, Bob Heneage, Emily Selleck, Betsy Hawkins, Tye Tilt and Doug Self.
UI Extension Educator Jennifer Werlin 208-354-2961 jwerlin@uidaho.edu
The Teton Food and Farm Coalition continued, with increased attendance at meetings via Zoom during the pandemic. For the fourth year in a row, UI Extension helped the Farmers Market gather economic data, finding that sales increased by more than $3,000 in 2020 despite fewer vendors. Between 2017 and 2020, sales increased by 86%. Educator Jennifer Werlin had two peer-reviewed Extension journal articles published and continues to work with colleagues on a USDA-AFRI grant focused on Idaho women in agriculture and how UI Extension can deliver more effective programming. Werlin is also a principal investigator or co-PI on $10,279 in new foundation grants in 2020. She also serves as a co-PI on federal and state grant projects totaling $956,859.
4-H in Teton County
The 4-H program in Teton County continues to adapt and grow, reaching a broader audience annually, with approximately 150 youth participants in 2020. Over 30 4-H clubs are led by community volunteers, with a large emphasis on STEAM subjects. Five new adult volunteers joined the program in 2020 and total volunteer hours exceeded 1,500 hours. New volunteer trainings were developed, including a diversity and inclusion training. Teton County 4-H also continues to partner with community organizations such as the Above and Beyond in the Classroom (ABC) program in conjunction with the public school system. These partnerships help 4-H reach more at-risk minority students in the community and reduce barriers to participation. A part-time AmeriCorps volunteer helped promote STEAM programming, including four STEAM day camps. Attendance was limited for safety reasons with an average of seven participants per camp.
On the Horizon
An additional part-time AmeriCorps volunteer, in partnership with Teton Science Schools, helped execute an applied research project which included aggregating agritourism activities and businesses in the Teton foodshed (Jackson Hole and Teton Valley) and an online survey to gauge consumer interest in agritourism and local food (pre-COVID and present). Results will be presented at the International Workshop on Agritourism in Vermont in 2022. This work has led to a partnership with a coalition of regional nonprofit organizations led by the Western Landowners Alliance who are working to develop a website and mobile application to connect tourists with agritourism activities in the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem. Another AmeriCorps member will expand on initial research and aggregate the data findings online through the Teton Food and Farm Coalition website.
EXTENSION TRENDS: TWIN FALLS COUNTY University of Idaho Extension, Twin Falls County • www.uidaho.edu/twinfalls
2020 Impact The Southern Idaho Master Gardener program donated 1,873 hours of volunteer service for a value of almost $51,000. Five new Master Gardener volunteers completed their hours for certification in 2020. Collaborative efforts with UI Extension pathologists and specialists are providing opportunities for publications that will be coming out in the near future on topics like verticillium wilt, fire blight, and late blight.
2020 By the Numbers • 5,976 direct contacts • 4,157 youth participants • 881 volunteers
UI Extension Educators Suzann Dolecheck 208-734-9590 sdolecheck@uidaho.edu
Siew Guan Lee 208-734-9590 siewguanl@uidaho.edu
Andres West 208-734-9590 andywest@uidaho.edu
Educator Siew Guan Lee partnered with University of Georgia Extension to pilot live cooking sessions, Virtual Cooking Club: Kids in the Kitchen. In a time of social distancing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this virtual cooking program provided a great opportunity to get children into the kitchen to prepare meals with their parent/guardian and in community with other youth without leaving home. Eat Smart Idaho partnered with the CSI Refugee Center to bring the Eating Smart and Moving More classes to new participants. Topics cover healthy eating, food resource management, food safety and ways to stay physically active. Eat Smart Idaho also developed a new partnership with the community of Hollister and a new Healthy Hawks Pantry at the Hollister Grange Hall. The Hollister School is also a recipient of the work that Eat Smart Idaho provides with the Smarter Lunchroom Movement and Choose Health: Food, Fun and Fitness classes.
4-H in Twin Falls County The Hansen School District continues to be the largest partner for 4-H community outreach. Three AmeriCorps instructors provided a total of 84 hours of educational out-of-school programs to 269 youth. Topics included Cooking Under Pressure, Environmental Science, Life Smarts, and Mars Base Camp Challenge. Additional programs included Acres of Adventure, Crime and Spy, Electricity, and Art Science. Educator Suzann Dolecheck worked with 7th grade science teachers at South Hills Middle School to develop a unique opportunity for students to dissect a variety of animals utilizing the Dabble in Dissection curriculum. This program provided the opportunity for students to focus on the digestive systems in each species and identify similarities and differences across the animal kingdom. After distributing a survey to assess the needs of the homeschool families in the Magic Valley, AmeriCorps instructors developed Homeschool with Us utilizing specific 4-H curriculum to provide quality experiential learning opportunities during the weekday.
On the Horizon Educators Siew Guan Lee and Andy West are collaborating on a community gardens project in Twin Falls with the goal of increasing access to fresh produce and providing an opportunity for increased physical activity for youth and their families.
EXTENSION TRENDS: VALLEY COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Valley County • www.uidaho.edu/valley
2020 Impact
UI Extension, Valley County provides programming in community development, youth development, agriculture and horticulture. In 2020, the office responded to the COVID-19 shut down by partnering with the McCall Chamber to offer a community development business feature series in conjunction with their business after hours events. Chamber members and the public gathered virtually to highlight how the community could support local businesses during the pandemic. In partnership with Mountain Valley Fellowship, UI Extension launched a learning circle focused on inclusive communities in the West Central Mountains. In-person horticulture and natural resource classes such as the Master Gardeners and Everything Fish pivoted to virtual delivery and continued with excellent retention of participants. UI Extension also partnered with the Payette Children's Forest to offer a virtual Youth Education Leadership Summit.
2020 By the Numbers • 615 direct contacts • 486 youth participants • 79 volunteers • 1,400 volunteers hours • $16,500 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Valley County: Shauna Arnold, Cami Hedges, Delta James, Gary Thompson, Rebecca Hurd, Maralee Cross, Patsy Kelley, Liz Jones, Steve Anderson, Andrew Mentzer and Dawn Morton.
UI Extension Educator Melissa Hamilton 208-382-7190 mbhamilton@uidaho.edu
Agriculture education included a virtual pest week series and presentations on grasshoppers, bark beetles and tussock moth. The implementation of a passive seed exchange bin program was launched at local libraries in partnership with the West Central Mountains Food Coalition. These bins allowed residents of Valley County to leave extra seeds and pick up free local seed resources. A local food shed story map was created to help connect consumers with producers in the area that sell directly to the public. Local food banks, community gardens, and other food security resources were included on the story map.
4-H in Valley County
The UI Extension, Valley County 4-H program continued to offer outstanding youth development programming for ages 5-18, focused on STEM, livestock education, art, yoga and healthy eating programs. Clubs met virtually and at socially distanced in-person events. Large and small animal livestock clinics, STEM 3-D printer train the trainer program, and Facebook Live virtual youth programming was provided in 2020. The Valley County fair was canceled due to COVID-19, however 4-H youth continued to show their projects at the animal livestock show which was held in person at the Valley County fairgrounds.
On the Horizon
UI Extension Educators are offering a virtual education series throughout summer 2021 focused on family learning. Multiple educators will come together to offer a mini-educational series with topics such as gardening, cooking, environmental education and family fun. UI Extension, Valley County is hosting a statewide Peer Learning Network (PLN) to convene planners, city and county leadership, local residents and anyone interested in dialogue and discussion surrounding difficult community issues participants are facing. The PLN has addressed broadband, housing and community’s response to COVID-19. Moving forward this group will be discussing and finding possible solutions for workforce development, early childhood education and other topics of interest.
EXTENSION TRENDS: WASHINGTON COUNTY
University of Idaho Extension, Washington County • www.uidaho.edu/washington
2020 Impact
While many regular programs were put on hold in 2020, the UI Extension office took the opportunity for program expansion. One of the signature programs developed was GROWERS, a program designed to bring gardening education to Washington, Payette, Gem and lower Adams counties. With input and positive critiques from horticultural stakeholders, a program was developed that provides both open community gardening education and supports Idaho Master Gardener certification and continuing education.
2020 By the Numbers • 2,299 direct contacts • 670 youth participants • 114 volunteers • 5,128 volunteer hours • $10,000 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to our volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension in Washington County: Nate Marvin, Kirk Chandler, Lynden Haines, Donna Atwood, Mike Partin and Bonnie Davis.
With record interest in gardening across the county, there was increased horticultural outreach through distribution of educational materials. A protocol for distance diagnostics was developed and socially distanced, drive-by site visits were conducted for lawn and tree diagnoses. A free pesticide applicators recertification series was developed for clientele who were unable to either access or afford online trainings. A total of 38 applicator credits were distributed through the program allowing at least seven applicators to completely recertify. A USDA-NIFA Education and Workforce Development grant in collaboration with Gonzaga University to support intern education in Extension and agriculture was submitted in 2020 and awarded in early 2021 for $292,876. Funds will also be used to develop youth environmental education programs and a drones in agriculture program.
4-H in Washington County
Much of the 4-H programming went online for 2020. While it was a difficult year, there were positive outcomes. Clubs and volunteers learned to negotiate various platforms for meetings, events and activities. Some technology is here to stay and has opened up events and opportunities from around the state and the nation to rural communities. Technology and advances in virtual learning gave youth a glimpse into the world and what can be accomplished with family, friends, volunteers and community with perseverance and innovation. A total of 223 projects were entered at the Washington County Fair, and a record number of volunteer hours helped to negotiate COVID-19 protocols and help youth complete and show their projects. One 4-H member witnessed an impromptu moment of community generosity when his steer was turned around by the buyer for a benefit auction that brought in $68,992.32 for a local sheriff's deputy battling cancer.
On the Horizon
The GROWERS program rolled out with record attendance and even more interest. A collaboration with food science educators will add an end use component for a propagation-to-pantry educational experience. An applied drone technology program and citizen science seed microbiome project will move forward with USDA-NIFA funding. Engagement with seed producers in applied seed microbiome management for control of seed crop pathogens will be expanded and local questions on regenerative soil practices and soil health will be incorporated.
EXTENSION TRENDS: AREA EDUCATORS
NORTHERN DISTRICT COMMUNITY FOOD SYSTEMS www.uidaho.edu/extension/small-farms
2020 Impact
The Northern District Community Food Systems program was at the front lines supporting small farmers and ranchers, farmers markets, restaurants and other food establishments during the pandemic. In March 2020, Area Educator Colette DePhelps initiated a statewide local food system needs assessment survey to identify immediate and anticipated needs. Results were used to prioritize COVID-19 education for farmers markets, restaurants, grocers, community gardeners, small farmers and other food systems practitioners.
2020 By the Numbers • 1,686 direct contacts
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension: Diane Green, Luke Black, Susan Jacobson, Teri McKenzie, Melinda Schab and Chris St. Germaine.
UI Extension Area Educator Colette DePhelps 208-885-4003 cdephelps@uidaho.edu
DePhelps collaborated with U of I and Washington State University colleagues to host 24 webinars to help growers access new direct markets and increase local food production. She also developed a COVID-19 resources webpage. She hosted COVID-19 operations support sessions and online sales discussions for Idaho farmers markets which helped participants develop and implement safe operating procedures DePhelps partnered with FARE Idaho to host statewide roundtables with independent restaurants, cafes and bars offering information on safe operations and peer-to-peer support. Providing information on indoor air quality and HVAC system efficacy allowed restaurant owners to make infrastructure investments to save money and to operate safely. DePhelps also partnered with the Moscow Chamber of Commerce, Latah County Partnership for Economic Prosperity, and Inland Northwest Partners to host roundtables with business owners, mayors, legislators, and the Idaho State Department of Commerce about COVID-19 impacts. DePhelps created a north Idaho local food directory and held two online panel discussions to help the community access local foods. She also facilitated roundtables for the Palouse-Clearwater Food Coalition and supported the development of the North Central Idaho Food Access working group resulting in two new food pantries and a new mobile food distribution site in Moscow. The 2020 Palouse-Clearwater Food Summit built awareness of local initiatives, keys to increasing community food self-reliance, and resulted in new food system relationships. In 2020, community food systems and small farms online education was significantly expanded, reaching over 30,000 people through various channels. Two new programs included the Finding Land to Farm in Idaho short course and the Inland Northwest Artisan Grains podcast to support the development of artisan grain values-based supply chains.
On the Horizon
DePhelps is working with community members to identify opportunities to sustainably scale-up fruit and vegetable production and increase markets for local food and farm products. She also leads Extension activities on a USDA grant project and is developing new programs that address the needs of Idaho women farmers and ranchers. The number of small farmers and ranchers in north Idaho and the demand for local food has increased significantly as a result of the pandemic. Connecting with and providing research-based education to these new clientele is an ongoing priority. DePhelps offers two bimonthly e-newsletters, The Pulse with a focus on local food in the Palouse-Clearwater region, Idaho Cultivating Success for small farms and ranches, and a newsletter specific to Idaho women in agriculture.
EXTENSION TRENDS: AREA EDUCATORS
4-H YOUTH DEVELOPMENT www.uidaho.edu/4h
2020 Impact
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, only two Level 1 4-H shooting sports instructor trainings were held in 2020, resulting in 78 discipline certifications. The traditional in-person state 4-H Shoot was altered to a mail-in trounament with 69 event scores submitted. The pandemic also impacted horse programs, with the state Horse Bowl being cancelled and the Hippology and Horse Judging events offered in a virtual format offered by Purdue University. Unfortunately, weatherrelated disruptions impacted the technology forcing another reschedule of those events, resulting in substantially reduced participation the second time around.
2020 By the Numbers • 809 direct contacts • 323 youth participants • 486 volunteers
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to volunteers who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension: State 4-H Shooting Sports Advisory Team: Mike Berheim, Roxanne Berheim, Kristin Boehm, Roy Boehm, Scott Claiborn, Steve Hines, Kevin Keller, Harold Lefler, Lori McCoy-Harrison, Tina Miller, Kelly Mullinaux, Jan Prudent, Phillip Schultz and Genese Simler. State 4-H Horse Advisory Team: Gail Silkwood, Tina Holmquist, Cindy Kinder, Sue Walker, Eileen Rowan, Andrea Thompson, Beth Stimpson, Suzanne Wilson, Melissa Rice, Gail Chambers, Becky Crapo, Austin Colson and Kamille Mirkin.
UI Extension Area Educator Jim Wilson 208-292-1401 jwilson@uidaho.edu
A significant portion of time was spent assisting various county program operations transition traditional county fair operations into events which complied with COVID-19 restrictions. While the pandemic significantly impacted program operations, one highlight was the launch of a national series of four 4-H shooting sports modules created by a team of Western region educators, led by UI Extension Area Educator Jim Wilson. While there had only been slightly over 600 series completions before the pandemic, the preliminary responses to this new system have been extremely positive and well received. We look forward to significant increases in use during 2021 and beyond.
On the Horizon
Wilson will work to finalize a comprehensive 4-H horse advancement program that incorporates general equine knowledge, groundwork skills and mounted performance proficiencies that can help guide youth and volunteers leaders in a sequenced series of meaningful learning experiences. Wilson has reached out to fellow 4-H equine specialists in other states for potential collaboration on the project, and the potential for adoption on a nationwide basis.
EXTENSION TRENDS: AREA EDUCATORS
UI EXTENSION PANHANDLE AREA FORESTRY 2020 Impact In 2019-2020, 388 owners of 43,593 family forest acres attended UI Extension Panhandle Forestry educational activities. Results from surveys of attendees indicate the following: 158 forest owners will monitor for insect, disease, or animal damage issues; 155 will favor tree species that resist insects and disease; 60 will thin forest trees; 59 will monitor/manage weeds or other non-native invasive species; 57 will reduce unwanted vegetation; 37 will complete a forest management plan; 27 will make houses easier for firefighters to identify and access; and 24 will plant forest tree seedlings.
2020 By the Numbers • 1,466 direct teaching contacts • 12 youth participants • 39 volunteers • 266 volunteer hours • $12,000 extramural funding
Our Advisory Council Special thanks to Idaho Master Forest Stewards who help shape programming and inform the work we do for UI Extension.
UI Extension Area Educator Chris Schnepf 208-292-2525 cschnepf@uidaho.edu
As of October 2020, 39 Idaho Master Forest Stewards were certified and volunteering. These volunteers provided over 266 hours of service in 20192020 to 397 forest owners and others, with an estimated value of $5,988. A total of 1,129 loggers have attended 46 LEAP sessions offered annually in the Idaho Panhandle since 1994. As a result of loggers’ participation in the two Idaho Panhandle 2020 LEAP update sessions, attendees indicated the following: 172 will identify forest defoliating insect presence; 133 will assess mastication techniques to treat vegetation; 114 will identify noxious weeds invading forests; 101 will improve logging practices based on U of I research; and 80 will implement silvicultural practices with subalpine fir. One hundred and seven foresters and other natural resource professionals attended UI Extension Panhandle forestry programs in 2019-2020. Participants in the 2020 family foresters workshop indicated percentage knowledge increases ranging from 20% to 49% on mass timbers, water yield and thinning, mastication, choosing reforestation stock types and family forest economics/policy. The improved management practices family forest owners, foresters and loggers implement as a result of knowledge and skills gained in UI Extension programs will ultimately increase wood to fuel Idaho’s economy, maintain water quality, reduce catastrophic fire risk, improve forest growth and health and enhance biological diversity.
On the Horizon Idaho Master Forest Stewards continue to help UI Extension reach more family forest owners. They also inform the forestry community about family forest owners' needs and help guide University of Idaho Extension and research programs and technical assistance efforts of public and privately employed foresters. Their guidance will help shape the variety of Extension programs offered to forest owners. As a result of the COVID-19 crisis, more programs will likely be offered remotely via the internet as a new way of providing forestry education to forest owners, loggers and professional foresters.
www.uidaho.edu/extension/forestry/panhandle
UNIVERSITY OF IDAHO EXTENSION ON THE MAP UI Extension County Office
Federally-Recognized Tribes Extension Office
UI Research & Extension Center
UI Extension County Office and UI Research & Extension Center
www.uidaho.edu/extension