UCCE in Santa Barbara County

Welcome

University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) is the local link that connects Santa Barbara County residents directly to the powerful research and expertise of the UC system. Our advisors and staff work directly with the community, applying science-based solutions and outreach—powered by dedicated volunteers in programs like 4-H, Master Gardeners, and Master Food Preservers—to address critical local issues in agriculture, environment, youth development, and health. We ensure that UC knowledge and resources are accessible to all people and communities in the county.

Our Community-Centered Programs

We address the most critical needs of Santa Barbara County by developing and delivering targeted educational programs based on University of California research. From fostering youth leadership to promoting sustainable agriculture, explore the specialized initiatives where our advisors and dedicated volunteers are actively making a difference through workshops, field days, and publications. For more detail, read the UCCE Santa Barbara County Annual Report found below. 

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Empowering Youth Through 4-H

The UC 4-H Youth Development Program provides hands-on, experiential learning opportunities for all youth ages 5–19, focusing on key areas like Civic Engagement, Healthy Living, and STEM. Supported by over 70 dedicated adult volunteers and 11 local clubs, the program helps Santa Barbara County youth grow as leaders while creating sustainable community change. Explore how 4-H develops confidence and skills for a thriving future.

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Master Gardeners & Master Food Preservers

Our dedicated UCCE volunteers share research-based knowledge to empower residents with essential skills for sustainable living, from seed to preservation. The Master Gardener Program provides expertise for thriving gardens and water-wise landscapes, while the Master Food Preserver Program offers trusted advice and workshops on safe food preservation and waste reduction. Join an upcoming workshop to cultivate your skills in the garden and kitchen!

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Livestock & Range Management

The Livestock & Range program provides locally based education and applied research focused on the complex interactions between livestock production systems and rangeland ecology. This work helps agricultural producers and land managers enhance production efficiency while promoting ecologically and economically viable operations through attention to issues like soil health, watershed protection, invasive plants, and fire management. Discover how we are supporting sustainable ranching and natural resource protection in Santa Barbara County.

Current Focus & Resources

Stay informed with the latest UC research, news, and specialized resources addressing the most pressing issues for our county's growers and residents.

• Stay Connected

Sign up for our Monthly Newsletter to receive timely updates on UC resources, trainings, and up-to-date information delivered straight to your inbox.

• Featured Topic: Avocado & Citrus Health

Read the latest article from Dr. Ben Faber's widely read Topics in SubTropics blog: Avocado Trunk Cankers. Additionally, find UCCE resources for citrus and avocado growers on frost protection and rehabilitation; learn more about frost protection resources here.

• Water Wise Strategies

UCCE has research-based information and tips for specific agricultural needs related to drought and water conservation. Click here for more Drought Information Resources.

• Agricultural Manuals

The essential guide for growers is now available: the Strawberry Production Manual. We offer both an English Manual (PDF, 25.8MB)  and a Spanish Manual (PDF, 25.9MB).