Submitted by Adam Austing, extension educator

What is the University of MN Extension? In 1914, the Smith-Lever Act created a “Cooperative Extension Service” associated with the land grant institution in each state. For us, that would be the U. Extension’s first big test came during World War I, when it played a big role in increasing the nation’s wheat production to meet the world’s food demand. When people think of Extension they often think of agriculture and 4-H. Those are still two huge parts of Extension, but it has expanded to include things like nutrition education, developing urban and rural communities, and fighting the opioid epidemic.

So where do I fit into this? Technically, I am a local Extension educator with a focus on agriculture and horticulture for Wright County. To some of you that have been around awhile, I am the county ag agent. I hold programs and events to help farmers improve their operations, gardeners grow better tomatoes and tulips, and homeowners care for their trees and lawn. I work to find answers to questions like “why is my tree dying,” “how can I improve my pasture,” and “what do I need to do start a mushroom farm?” I also coordinate the Wright County Master Gardener program.

What are Master Gardeners? These are volunteers with a passion for plants and people. They dedicate their time to teaching adults and kids how to garden and care for the environment. In Wright County, we have about 40 energetic Master Gardeners itching to get into their gardens this spring. I have partnered with our Master Gardeners to bring you this column. Every other week, you will see an article by either me or a Master Gardener. The topics will vary greatly- from how to be successful in your garden to interesting things found in nature in Central MN and the world.

If any of this sounds interesting, keep an eye out for this column in 2020. If you do not want to wait two weeks for the next article, please feel free to reach out to us. The Wright County Extension office is located just North of Buffalo and we always welcome visitors. You can call the office at 763-682-7394 or email me at aausting@umn.edu. If you are wanting to talk to one of our amazing Master Gardeners, contact me or reach out to them directly on their yard & garden line: 763-684-8489.