Marylanders are searching for information, resources and help to better their lives and stay in business during these uncertain times, while staying at home and managing family and work.
The University of Maryland Extension is serving the essential workforce, families and youth throughout the state and we are showcasing a few innovative ways that our faculty and staff are reaching out to their communities. These programs demonstrate the breadth and diversity of our programs, and the dedication of our field agents and staff to keep providing the state with science-based solutions.
Aquaculture Business Planning – Matt Parker, Prince George’s Co. educator in the environmental and natural resources program, produced an instructional webinar available on YouTube, assisting aquaculturists developing their business plan as part of a U.S. Aquaculture Society series.
Virtual Pasture Walks – Amanda Grev, in partnership with Extension educators in the western Maryland region, are hosting weekly pasture walks and addressing new topics every week including soil sampling, grazing management, and more for livestock owners. Follow the Maryland Forages Facebook page for ongoing updates.
Video Gardening Series – In Harford County, Joyce Browning is using Facebook to share Master Gardener lessons, posted daily with advice on local horticulture. Her videos can also be seen on the Home & Garden Information Center YouTube channel.
STEAM for Youth – 4-H educators across the state are helping kids keep in touch and keep busy. In Baltimore City, Albert Lewis is providing weekly STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art & math) activities for his students, as well as fun videos on YouTube educating them on the importance of following current safety guidelines like wearing a mask.
Healthy Home Environments – Jen Dindinger with the Maryland SeaGrant Extension program in Dorchester County, is teaching her communities how to prepare gardens and rain barrels for the spring through YouTube videos, helping ensure less runoff to the Chesapeake Bay from urban coastal areas.
Grow It Eat It Preserve It – Donielle Axline, 4-H educator in Frederick County, offered a webinar on the basics of growing, eating, and preserving your own food, designed for elementary-aged students.
These are only a few examples of the dynamic virtual education happening across the state as we continue to adjust to the changes associated with the stay-at-home order. We are committed to educating our communities, and assisting families and our essential workforce.
As always, find news and updates at https://extension.umd.edu/ and your local Extension personnel at https://extension.umd.edu/locations.
