Joe Roberts

Helping bring WSU’s land-grant mission to life, thousands of volunteers extend the impact of 4-H and Master Gardener programs to communities across Washington.

Washington high schoolers built leadership skills, explored careers, prepared for their futures, and took part in hands-on service projects during the Washington State 4-H Teen Conference in Pullman.

Leaders from WSU Extension’s Community and Economic Development unit and nonprofit Partners for Rural Washington showcased The Giving Grid, a collaborative project bringing sustainable energy and long-term savings to dozens of Washington’s rural schools.

Hands-on discovery at nearly 20 education stations amid a scenic outdoor backdrop attracted a record number of youth attendees at this year’s WSU Extension 4-H field day.

From Ripple Effect Mapping to broadband expansion, WSU Stevens County Extension Director Debra Hansen made lasting contributions during her career. She will retire in early July.

An expanding Extension team will help tree fruit growers tackle orchard and postharvest issues, thanks to the landmark WSU Tree Fruit Endowment.

Specific bacterial pairings outcompete fire blight in the lab, suggesting new avenues of disease control.

Through the Forest Youth Success program, youth help clear trails and restore public lands, benefiting the community while building skills for employment.

A hands-on 4-H livestock workshop in March equipped youth and families in the rural community of Keller on the Colville Reservation with knowledge that increases livestock and animal well-being.

WSU Extension pesticide program director Wendy Sue Wheeler received the President’s Award from The Pesticide Stewardship Alliance for her national leadership in protecting the environment and food supply.