Empowering Growers through Research and Education
UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) is a vital resource for growers, dedicated to providing science-based information, conducting relevant research, and fostering sustainable agricultural practices. With a history spanning over 100 years, UCCE serves as a crucial link, bridging the gap between research-based academics on campus and the specific needs of counties.
Organized strategically, UCCE comprises extension specialists, who are academics stationed at UC campuses with statewide responsibilities, and farm advisors, who are academics based in county offices with regional responsibilities. Extension specialists and farm advisors share a mission-oriented approach, conducting applied research and actively engaging in outreach and education initiatives.
The strength of UCCE lies in its wide-reaching presence, with over 330 academics posted across UC campuses at Davis, Berkeley, Riverside, and Merced, along with 53 county offices and 9 research centers. This dispersed network enables UCCE to provide valuable, locally relevant expertise and guidance to growers throughout the entire state.
One distinguishing feature of cooperative extension in California is the establishment of research and extension centers (RECs). These nine centers are strategically located in climatically distinct regions across the state, encompassing more than 12,000 acres. RECs serve as hubs for on-site research and educational opportunities, housing dedicated academics and fostering collaboration.
Furthermore, farm advisors in California are unique as they are required to conduct research. This commitment to research enhances their proficiency, capacity, and ability to deliver research-based information effectively. In California, extension agents are referred to as "farm advisors," a designation that recognizes their role as principal investigators (PIs) and allows them to lead grant authorship and submission efforts.
The services provided by farm advisors are made possible through various funding sources. These include federal support (10%) through programs like the Smith-Lever Act and Hatch Act, state UC budget allocations (70%), and county contributions (20%), which provide in-kind office space, operational budgets, and staff support. Research funds further bolster these programs, with grants amounting to $25-30 million annually, complemented by $4 million in gifts and endowments.
UCCE is a dynamic organization that is continuously evolving and expanding. By 2016, 40% of UCCE advisors and specialists will have been hired within the past six years, reflecting a commitment to new talent and fresh perspectives. Notably, in 2014, 75% of extension specialists and 67% of advisors were 55 years old or older, emphasizing the need for ongoing recruitment and succession planning.
Growers are encouraged to reach out to their dedicated farm advisor with any questions or concerns related to their farms. These knowledgeable professionals are eager to engage in productive dialogues, share research ideas, and address specific needs. Stay informed about upcoming workshops, new informational resources, and relevant updates from your farm advisor to ensure you benefit from the latest developments in the field of agriculture.