Follow any road in Tennessee and you’ll find people whose lives have been influenced by Extension’s educational programs.
UT Extension provides Real. Life. Solutions. throughout Tennessee. With an office in each of the state’s ninety-five counties, UT Extension helps Tennesseans to improve their quality of life and solve problems through the application of research and evidenced-based knowledge about agriculture and natural resources, family and consumer sciences, 4-H youth development, and community development.
UT Extension provides a gateway to the University of Tennessee as the outreach unit of the Institute of Agriculture. It is a statewide educational organization, funded by federal, state and local governments, that brings research-based information about agriculture, family and consumer sciences, and resource development to the people of Tennessee where they live and work.
Agriculture and Natural Resources
Expand content upUniversity of Tennessee Extension’s Agriculture and Natural Resources Team helps Tennesseans run more profitable farms and agricultural holdings, grow and process abundant and safe food, and create a cleaner environment.
Family and Consumer Sciences
Expand content upUT Extension Family and Consumer Sciences professionals use research-based education to help Tennesseans improve their well-being, resulting in economic benefits for individuals, families, and communities.
4-H Youth Development
Expand content upTennessee 4-H encourages youth to “Learn by Doing.” Members develop their skills and talents to the fullest potential through 4-H clubs, special interest groups, afterschool programs, camps, and many other activities.
Community Economic Development
Expand content upUT Extension’s Community Economic Development Team assists Tennesseans and their communities in areas such as small business transition and growth, entrepreneurial training, workforce development, and technology transfer.
Together, we are making a difference. View Extension’s Impact Report, compiled in 2022, for more data on our work in Tennessee communities.
Our Focus Areas
4-H Youth Development
Expand content upWe provide educational programs for children in elementary through high school that help them strengthen life skills through events and projects, take on leadership roles, and serve others.
Agri-business economics and Entrepreneurship
Expand content upWe help producers and growers market their crops, livestock, or other farm resources to consumers.
Commercial Horticulture
Expand content upWe help growers manage the production of ornamental plants and turfgrass, as well as fruits and vegetables, for profit.
We help people make healthy food choices, manage their weight, preserve food, and handle food safely.
We help people make healthy choices, prevent and manage chronic conditions, and increase opportunities for better health.
Crop Production Systems
Expand content upWe provide support to crop producers in marketing, integrated pest management, sustainable cultural practices, environmental and human health risks, invasive species, regulations, and profitability.
Environmental Stewardship
Expand content upWe protect our air, water, and soil through educational programs that promote the responsible use and protection of natural resources through conservation and environmentally sustainable practices.
We foster healthy parenting skills, enrich family relationships, and promote emotional wellness.
Livestock & Forage Systems
Expand content upWe provide research and education to help Tennessee meat, milk, and fiber producers of all ages improve production and management.
We help families increase savings, decrease debt, spend wisely, and plan for the future.
Leadership Development
Expand content upWe prepare Tennesseans to serve as entrepreneurs and leaders within their communities, and help increase economic opportunities at the local level.
Residential and Consumer Horticulture
Expand content upWe help homeowners manage their lawns, gardens, and ornamental landscapes.
Natural Resources
Expand content upWe develop and deliver educational programs that help the public and private industries be good stewards of our land, air, water, and other natural resources.
We help families save energy, prepare for emergencies, and make their homes healthy and safe.
