Positive Ecology

WSU King County Extension recieves its primary funding through King County, Washington State (via funding to Washington State University) and United States Department of Agriculture - Cooperative State Research, Education and Extension Service. In addition, WSU King County Extension relies on funds from many granting partnerships to achieve our goals.

WSU Extension: A Long History
In 1862 the Morrill Land Grant Act gave every state in the Union a huge tract of federal land. The states were to sell the land and use the proceeds to establish at least one college that would offer courses in agriculture, engineering, and home economics, in addition to regular academic programs. Over seventy land-grant colleges were established under the Morrill Act, laying the foundation for the development of higher education in the western states.

In 1914 the Smith-Lever Act established the system of cooperative extension services to bring all citizens the benefits of current developments in the field of agriculture, home economics and related subjects. However, it was actually 1913 when the state legislature passed a law creating extension work at Washington State University, formerly Washington State College. 

Land-grant institutions, designed to foster a program of education suited to the needs of the agricultural and industrial classes, have come to encompass a program of on-campus instruction, research, and off-campus extension work. Since 1914, several acts have been passed expanding the scope and increasing the support of all three aspects of the program.

4-H Youth and Family Stewardship: Enriching Lives Through Practical Education
What should you cook for dinner if you have diabetes or are at risk of getting it? How can you grow vegetables year-round in a community garden? Where can you shop to eat well on a limited budget? Washington Sate University King County Extension addresses real-world questions like these every day. In WSU’s Food$ense programs, such as Extension Family Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP), we’re enriching lives and communities through practical education focusing on the nutrition and wellness of the entire family. And our Parenting Program- a network of volunteers and community partners- provides parent education to diverse audiences, emphasizing family self-sufficiency and community economic development.

Promoting our Most Precious Resource
Right now 4-H youth and adult volunteers are meeting in your neighborhood, schools, and communities. More than 3,500 youth in King County are learning hands-on skills in subjects as diverse as computers, cooking, photography, aerospace, raising a pet, and much more- all through 4-H.

But it doesn’t stop there. We foster positive life skills, leadership and volunteerism in youth and adults with programs like “4-H Challenge” which focuses on team-building adventures, or “Know Your Government,” which focuses on improving communication skills, political awareness, and civic stewardship. 4-H honors the diversity of King County youth and families through activities that instill cultural pride. We have programs for teachers, parents, and adults who want to learn more about youth development and the best practices for working with youth, including service learning opportunities that challenge young stewards in their leadership development.

At WSU King County Extension, we know that our more important resource is youth. We’re dedicated to supporting their lifelong learning and success as the leaders of tomorrow.

Water, Land, Forests, Farms, and Food Stewardship: Protecting Our Piece of the Planet
Every day, the world gets a little smaller and a little more crowded. And every day, it becomes that much more important to maintain a healthy, clean, productive environment.

WSU King County Extension and our many volunteers help spread this message to the rest of King County. We offer education and resources to help farmers succeed in today’s competitive marketplace while protecting their land, and our water. We encourage consumers to support their local farmers and local economies. We train Forestry Stewards, Livestock Advisors, and Extension Watershed Stewards to protect and restore our precious natural resources.

Thirty years ago, right here in King County, we developed the WSU Master Gardener volunteer program. Since then, the Master Gardner model has spread to all 50 states. Master Gardeners help the rest of us learn how to garden more successfully and teach the latest and best eco-friendly methods.

Extension figured out long ago that teaching practical, applicable solutions puts hope and power right into the hands of people. That’s why our skilled faculty, experienced community educators and volunteer stewards- like you- work so effectively with adults, seniors, parents, and youth to help them learn what to grow, where to shop, and healthy ways to prepare food.

Engage Yourself: Contact Us Today to Find Out How
All of our programs are about community engagement through stewardship; we’re educating volunteers to be stewards and leaders in their own neighborhoods. You probably know one of them already. And you know they’re making King County a great place to live.

WSU King County Extension needs your help. We have a place for you and your skills. Contact us today to become a steward in your community.