What is Extension?
Understanding Extension
Producer-led extension is a model of research and education outreach that places producers at its centre. Extension responds to producer needs rather than the other way around.
The model is an open and accessible way of bringing evidence-based research and modern technologies to growers and producers to meet their needs.
Two-way face-to-face engagement is emphasised rather than just pushing out publication-based information to producers.
Native Plant Producer Network Mississippi State University
Producer and farmer extension case studies
Established in 2024 Native Plant Producer Network in Mississippi connects producers with coastal restoration projects through workshops and extension personnel working with nurseries and schools. The aim is to build producer capacity.
Read more about the NPP Network.
FAR is an applied research organisation responsible to New Zealand arable growers. FAR's research and extension portfolio aims to meet the needs of New Zealand's arable industry, now and in the future.
Foundation for Arable Research New Zealand-wide
North Carolina State University Extension Programme
NC State University’s extension programme keeps North Carolina’s $96 billion agriculture and horticulture industries growing and sustainable by connecting producers with research-based information and technology they need.
Extension 350 - Northland
Extension 350 was a six-year programme to help Taitokerau Northland farmers succeed, not just with a healthier bottom line, but with a healthier environment and farming community too.
Over the Fence - New Zealand-wide
Over the Fence was a farmer-led extension initiative to support learning through conversations, shared experiences, and trusted relationships. It demonstrated how relationship-based extension can empower the primary industry to address challenges together.
Read the Over the Fence handbook.
UMASS Greenhouse extension - Massachusetts
The University of Massachusetts Amherst's Extension Greenhouse Crops and Floriculture Program supports more than 1,000 greenhouse and flower-producing operations by providing research and information on production practices and marketing.