Cooperative Extension

Cooperative Extension is the county-based educational and research branch of the University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources financed jointly by federal, state, and county government. Sacramento County established Cooperative Extension in 1917.

The mission is to serve the county through the creation, development, and application of knowledge in agriculture, natural and human resources.

The staff is a dynamic group of academics, paraprofessionals, clerical and volunteers working together to enhance the quality of life and economic capacity in all communities through research and education.

For information about upcoming workshops, visit the University of California Cooperative Extension.

•  4-H Youth Development Program helps children grow through educational, fun programs throughout the County in traditional clubs and non-traditional projects. 4-H extends training, programs, and support to volunteers, community organizations, teachers, and after school programs that provide direct service to youth education and development. Sacramento County programs include clubs, camps, and science literacy projects.
• Pomology and Viticulture Program provides research and educational programs on growing orchards, wine grapes, and strawberries. Research includes studies related to integrated pest management, nutrient management, and organic and sustainable farming practices. Educational programs include annual grower meetings and newsletters.
• Environmental Horticulture Program is focused on sustainable landscaping through a comparison of alternative turf species that require less water and mowing, and development of economical practices that reduce use of natural resources and protect the environment.
• Home Gardening and Horticulture Program has trained and certified Master Gardener Volunteers to extend University research-based information through mass media, telephone and office consultations, plant clinics, school garden programs, and our speaker’s bureau. Fair Oaks Horticulture Center workshops provide hands-on learning related edible and water-efficient landscaping for thousands of people each year.
• Nutrition, Family and Consumer Sciences Program provides opportunities for families, individuals, and youth to enhance their quality of living by providing resources that support independence and self-sufficiency. Community outreach programs offered are related to nutrition and health, lifeskills education, food safety, and food preservation.
• Home Food Preservation and Safety Program has trained and certified Master Food Preserver Volunteers to provide up-to-date information on safe food handling and the prevention of food borne illness, conduct monthly public workshops that demonstrates research-based methods for preserving food safely at home to prevent bacterial contamination, participate in public service activities, and answer consumer phone inquires.