Virginia Cooperative Extension connects community to science

By Page H. Gifford

The Virginia Cooperative Extension is a great resource for anyone wanting to learn more about subjects ranging from farming to gardening. 

The VCE connects the scientific research of Virginia’s two land-grant universities, Virginia Tech and Virginia State University, directly to local communities across the state. It operates through partnerships among federal, state and local governments, using local Extension agents and volunteers to deliver practical educational programs. Extension agents bridge the gap between university research and local communities by providing education, expert advice and resources on agriculture, youth development and family life.

Through the Agriculture and Natural Resources Program, VCE agents assist farmers with problem-solving, production guidance, cattle and goat management, crop management, soil testing and fertilization recommendations, water and air quality, pest control, and pesticide education for farmers and gardeners. Agents visit local farms and properties to diagnose plant diseases, test hay quality, assist beekeepers, and offer unbiased, science-backed solutions. They also oversee the volunteer Master Gardener program for home horticulture. Master Gardeners welcome avid gardeners who want to learn more and volunteer. They also oversee the Community Garden at Pleasant Grove.

The 4-H Youth Development, designed to build life skills, empowers youth through clubs, camps, and leadership programs.

The Family and Consumer Sciences Program teaches nutrition, food budgeting, family financial management, and parenting skills. Family and Consumer Sciences Extension agents and volunteers work in Fluvanna County to improve wellness for individuals and families. As educators, they draw on community resources and professional connections to implement effective educational and outreach programs. Their goal is to provide people with the life skills needed to make positive changes and improve their overall well-being.

As part of their special Summer Cooking and Food Preservation classes held at the Fluvanna Community Center Commercial Kitchen, on October 1, from 9 am-12 noon, participants will learn to make herb jelly. The class is a hands-on exploration of peak season flavors. The session is devoted to transforming herbs into preserves by focusing on techniques, seasonings, and layered flavors. Cost is $20. Contact Bredman@vt.edu to reserve a space.

Community Viability supports local entrepreneurship, economic development, and leadership capacity. Examples of its work include training county elected officials, educating entrepreneurs, facilitating collaborative projects, supporting the growth of community food systems and local economies, enhancing agent skills and community capacity in facilitation and leadership, conducting problem-driven research, and creating publications and tools that address critical community needs.

For more information, visit https://fluvanna.ext.vt.edu/contact.html or call 434-591-1950.