Managing Spotted Lanternflies
This destructive, invasive insect poses a threat to Delaware's agricultural economy.
Welcome to UD Cooperative Extension
In 1869, the University of Delaware (UD) College of Agriculture and Natural Resources was established as the state’s land-grant university with a mission consisting of three elements: teaching, research and “extension”.
Cooperative Extension fulfills the third part of this mission: bringing knowledge to the people of Delaware. Today, we offer university knowledge, research and resources — just for you! You have questions.
We have expert answers. From nutrition , Master Naturalist , Master Gardeners to 4-H youth clubs and programs that support local agriculture — UD Cooperative Extension has something for everyone!
Make a DIFFerence
Getting involved with UD Cooperative Extension is an excellent way to support and improve your Delaware community. Whether you're volunteering as a 4-H Adult Leader or donating to supporting an Extension Scholar, your local Master Gardener program, UD Cooperative Extension is grateful to have your involvement!
AGENTS FOR CHANGE
Each year, impact statements summarize the accomplishments of our educational efforts! The latest impact statements are available in both text and infographic formats.
Trending Stories
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Drought Damage, Disease, or Both?
June 11, 2025 | Written by: Tracy Wootten, Sussex County Horticulture Agent and Jill Pollok, UD Plant Diagnostician with Delaware Cooperative ExtensionMany on Delmarva are seeing damage to trees and shrubs from the severe drought we experienced in 2024. Evergreens used for windbreaks and screening on poultry farms are no exception. Jill Pollok, University of Delaware Plant Diagnostician, shares items that we can expect in 2025 after the drought: -
Message to Farmers: You are not alone
June 06, 2025 | Article and photos by Michele WalfredLinking Aquaculture and Agriculture to RIsk Management Resources In 1977, on his family farm in Sussex County, Don Clifton, 19, discovered his younger brother David, 16, had suffered a fatal agricultural accident with a silage wagon. Clifton faced the unimaginable task of delivering that news to his father. Clifton now serves as Delaware’s Secretary of Agriculture and recalled that life-changing moment before a large audience attending Delaware’s first Aquaculture and Agriculture Health and Vitality Forum. -
Drug Effects on The Human Brain
June 05, 2025 | Written by Lindsay Hughes, 4-H Youth Development Extension AgentWhat if a single choice could hijack your brain’s wiring, rewriting your behavior, judgment, and even your ability to survive? The human brain is an essential organ in the body, responsible for everything from regulating bodily functions to thinking, breathing, and influencing behavior. It is made up of billions of cells called neurons, which are organized into circuits and networks that work together as a team. These neurons control the flow of information. -
The Cost of Chronic Disease
May 23, 2025 | Written by Nancy Mears, Sussex County Extension Agent – Health & Well-beingChronic diseases dominate US healthcare costs, especially in Delaware, where the aging population and high obesity rates exacerbate the issue. Delaware’s 65+ population is projected to grow by 65% from 2015 to 2050. From 2016-2023, chronic diseases cost the State of Delaware $135 billion. Nationally 1 in 5 people live in a rural community, where there are more significant health disparities as compared to those living in urban areas. Poor health places a strain on the nation’s resources.
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