Arizona Cooperative Extension

Arizona Cooperative Extension is based on partnerships. We build programs to help solve local problems that evolve from the research base of our land grant university.

   Our funding for Extension programs is another example of partnership, beginning with support from federal, state and county government. Also, during the past few years, grants, gifts and contracts have supplied 35% of our overall budget.

   We often use the word "grassroots" to describe how Extension builds its program. We match the expertise of our faculty and staff - along with appropriate University research - to Arizonans' needs, as expressed by local advisors and county boards of supervisors. We try to limit our problem-solving responses to areas where we can make a significant difference in people's lives. Having Extension faculty and staff on the scene in every county helps keep our work locally responsive.

   Community volunteers and people from other government agencies extend our efforts, helped by the training we offer. For example, we teach gardeners to answer questions from other gardeners; train 4-H adult leaders to work with young people; help landscapers do their work professionally; develop low volume irrigation systems to conserve water and save money; help food handlers to keep food safe; and help parents become more effective.

   Sometimes solving problems takes a long-term effort; sometimes projects take less time. We emphasize community independence. When the problem is solved, or we've trained enough people to handle it, Extension focuses its attention on other needs.