OSU Extension strengthens Lane County food system, from soil to table
Oregon State University Extension Service plays a behind-the-scenes but essential role in Lane County’s food system. OSU Extension supports farmers, expands food access and builds community partnerships.
“I’m working with small-scale farmers and ranchers to produce locally grown and raised food, and ideally keep it in Lane County,” said Melissa Fery, an OSU Extension small farms educator.
Food preservation is another essential part of a resilient food system. Our work helps residents, gardeners and producers reduce food waste, preserve seasonal abundance and navigate food-safety regulations.
Extension’s Family and Community Health Program focuses on making healthy, local food accessible to everyone. “Our volunteers have been doing recipe sampling in pantries for over two decades,” said health educator Jillian Drewes.
Thriving together
OSU Extension partners with local communities to provide trusted expertise and science-based knowledge to address critical issues and help every Oregonian thrive.
Timely tips and resources
Science-backed information you can use!
Tune in for new topics
Get personalized support and local news
We are active across the state delivering our workshops and collaborating with you.
Attend in-person and online events
News and impact
Have a question? Ask Extension!
Ask Extension is a way for you to get answers from the Oregon State University Extension Service. We have experts in family and health, community development, food and agriculture, coastal issues, forestry, programs for young people, and gardening.
OSU Extension Fast Facts
Connect with hands-on experiences
We have many ways for youth to participate in learning including animal science, robotics, the outdoors, healthy foods, physical activities, leadership and college preparation.
OSU Extension volunteers help us serve communities across Oregon. You can focus on food preservation, gardening, natural resources and more!
-
4-H Youth Development empowers young people with hands-on learning experiences to help them grow and thrive. As a 4-H volunteer, you can lead a club, teach a skill or help at events.
Photo: Chance Olufson -
Farm to School and school garden activities work together to improve kids' health and wellness, support their success in school and grow Oregon’s economy.
Credit: Amanda Loman -
Master Food Preservers are trained and certified volunteers who assist OSU Extension Service in their efforts to provide up-to-date food safety and preservation information to Oregonians.
-
Better Bones and Balance® is an exercise program designed to gradually improve balance and strength to avoid falls and maintain independence. Explore opportunities to become a certified instructor.
Photo by Oregon State University -
Oregon Forest Pest Detector volunteers help prevent the damaging impacts of invasive forest pests by monitoring for and reporting potential infestations. Volunteers are important in early detection and rapid response to control efforts.
Photo by Lynn Ketchum -
Walk With Ease is an exercise program that can reduce pain and improve overall health. Training certifies volunteers to lead a Walk With Ease group.
Credit: Alyson Yates -
Master Gardener™ program educates Oregonians about the art and science of growing and caring for plants. This program also facilitates the training of a highly educated group of volunteers who extend sustainable gardening information to their communities through education and outreach programs.
-
The Oregon Naturalist Program is for people interested in Oregon’s natural history and natural resources management who want to dedicate their time as volunteers.
Photo: Jason O'Brien -
The Master Woodland Manager training is a master's level course for landowners who are interested in an intensive forest management training and sharing the knowledge gained through this training with people in their local communities.
Credit: Tiffany Hopkins -
Do you want to help educate people about bee biodiversity and creating bee habitat? The Bee Advocate Program is designed for those interested in outreach and public education.
Credit: Ann Marie Murphy
Learn about OSU Extension
Donate to support OSU Extension
Help us strengthen the health, well-being and economic security of youth, families and communities. Support our work to conserve and enhance natural resources and marine environments. Be part of our efforts to increase sustainable solutions for agriculture, forestry, food systems and gardening across Oregon.
All donations and private investments are vital to strengthening our programs.