About

Working together to strengthen communities since 1914.

Our Mission

NDSU Extension empowers North Dakotans to enhance their lives and livelihoods through research-based education aligned with community priorities.

Youth Farm Safety Camp

Who We Are and What We Do – Core Focus Areas

• Agriculture and Natural Resources
  We support North Dakota’s $41 billion-plus agriculture industry by delivering practical, economical, and sustainable solutions for farmers, ranchers, landowners, and natural resource users.
• Family and Community Wellness
  We help people make healthier choices to reduce the risk of chronic disease and strengthen families and communities through programs in health, nutrition, and community leadership.
• 4-H Youth Development
  4-H programs help young people develop essential leadership and life skills — growing healthier, more engaged future generations.

Annual Great Pumpkin Weigh-Off at Carrington City Park

Statewide Network

• Extension offices in 53 counties and 4 Tribal Nations
• Seven Research Extension Centers
• Campus-based faculty and staff
  Working together to strengthen communities since 1914.

Master Gardener tour of NDSU Campus Gardens

How Extension Works

Established by Congress through the Smith-Lever Act, NDSU Extension serves as:

• A system of trusted community partners
  We meet people where they live and work — providing accessible and practical programs, resources, and connections that respond to real-life needs.
• A research-based, data-driven organization
  As part of North Dakota State University, we bring university science into communities, turning research into meaningful action.
• A place where collaborative solutions take shape
  By linking local voices, partners, and expertise, we help communities identify challenges and develop solutions that work for both rural and urban North Dakota.

The Soil Health Express trailer and staff bring hands-on demonstrations

Values That Guide Our Work

• Impact – Delivering research-based, locally relevant education that makes a difference.
• Relationships – Building trust, respect, and belonging across communities.
• Community – Listening to local voices to guide meaningful programs.
• Flexibility – Meeting people where they are with practical, adaptable resources.
• Discovery – Encouraging curiosity and lifelong learning.
• Collaboration – Partnering across North Dakota and beyond to expand opportunity.

Participants pot flowers for the Aging in Community program in Lisbon

From Needs to Solutions

NDSU Extension serves as a bridge between North Dakotans and North Dakota State University. With statewide staffing and strong partnerships, we bring research to life in communities through this process:

1. Identify Issues – Extension agents listen to farmers, families, businesses, and community leaders to understand local needs.
2. Research Solutions – Agents collaborate with NDSU specialists and faculty to apply research, science, and emerging technologies.
3. Transfer Results – Research is translated into practical tools, programs, and resources.
4. Demonstrate Impact – Extension strengthens agricultural resilience, improves crop and livestock health, protects natural resources, and builds community capacity — helping North Dakotans live healthier and navigate change with confidence.

Funding and Support

NDSU Extension is supported through a blend of federal, state, county, and grant dollars:

• Federal Support (USDA–NIFA) – Support through the Smith-Lever Act and program grants advances agricultural, economic, and social well-being.
• State Support – North Dakota provides appropriations for salaries, operations, and statewide service.
• County Support – All 53 counties partner with Extension by supporting local offices and identifying community priorities.

Vision

To lead through innovative education while staying future-focused to meet North Dakota’s evolving needs.