​What is Extension?

Extension is an off-campus branch of the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS). Research-based education is offered by trained professionals and volunteers to provide problem solving information to Palm Beach County residents. We are supported by the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners, University of Florida, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Who We Are

UF/IFAS Extension encompasses thousands of Extension faculty members, scientists, educators, administrative staff, and volunteers, all working to provide solutions for your life. Whether you need to know how to design a more energy-efficient house, care for native plant life, or develop a youth leadership program, Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension Service/UF-IFAS has the answers. As the local branch of the University of Florida, the Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension Service office has access to the latest research and technology on more than 2,000 subjects of interest. The University's expertise is available to small business owners, farmers, builders, home owners, parents, children, and the general public.

Our Mission

Our mission is to deliver research-based education from the University of Florida/IFAS and similarly trusted institutions to Palm Beach County citizens, organizations, and businesses enaged in agriculture, horticulture, human sciences, and youth development.  Educational outreach efforts emphasize practical and impactful solutions that improve life quality for residents, families, and communities; protects water resources and environmental systems; and enhances the competiveness of agriculture in Palm Beach County.

History

The Smith-Lever Act of 1914 established the Cooperative Extension Service, a partnership between land grant colleges nationwide, as a means for disseminating and  implementing research-based information from land-grant universities, including the University of Florida. The transfer of knowledge from the university to people throughout the state is facilitated by "Extension" faculty located in each of Florida's 67 counties. This partnership between counties and the university is the heart of the Cooperative  Extension Service mission and enables the university to extend its knowledge base to each community.

 

Extension offers information in the areas of:

Agriculture

  • Animal/plant production and marketing.
  • Agribusiness management.
  • Education for small farm owners.
  • Safe and efficient use of pesticides and fertilizers.

Family & Consumer Sciences

  • Food safety.
  • Food and nutrition education.
  • Parenting and nurturing infants and young children.
  • Money management.
  • Neighborhood strengthening through volunteer involvement.
  • Hurricane/disaster preparation.

Agricultural Economic Development Program

  • Diversifying and enhancing Agricultural Opportunities in Palm Beach County
  • Identifying and developing new markets and products
  • Promoting job creation and growth
  • Assistance in creating value-added Agricultural products.

Environmental Horticulture

  • Selection and placement of plant materials for energy and water conservation.
  • Landscape design and management.
  • Mulching and composting practices that reduce, reuse, and recycle yard trash.
  • Use of plants to attract desirable wildlife.
  • Commercial nursery production and marketing.
  • Master Gardener Program to assist with landscape and gardening questions.

4-H/Youth Development

  • More than 50 project areas from which to choose, including citizenship, robotics, marine science, animal/pet care, and many others.
  • Leadership training for teens and adults.
  • Organizing community and school 4-H clubs.
  • School enrichment curriculum or curricula.
  • Learning life skills.