Maine ranks third nationally for beginning producer–operated farms (35.9%), yet new farmers face steep hurdles—accessing capital, navigating regulations, and proving financial viability. The Business Planning for Producers course equips aspiring and early-stage farmers with the skills to launch and grow sustainable enterprises through comprehensive business planning. Since 2023, the program has run as ten two-hour […]

Extension’s tractor safety courses provide critical skills and certification, enhancing job opportunities for youth and contributing to the economic health of Maine’s agricultural sector by promoting safer farming practices. Injuries and fatalities in agriculture lead to significant economic losses and can cause farms to go out of business. Labor shortages, including qualified equipment operators, exacerbate […]

In 2022, Maine had at least 457 farms producing potatoes on over 54,000 acres, with the value of sales of Maine-grown potatoes reaching over $200 million, according to the Census of Agriculture. Among these farms, 317 (69%) were small acreages of less than 5 acres, primarily producing for direct-to-consumer channels such as on-farm markets, farm […]

The Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) in Maine helps combat nutrition insecurity and childhood obesity by educating low-income children on diet quality, physical activity, and food resource management. In 2024, 3140 youth participated in Maine EFNEP, almost doubling the previous year’s enrollment. Youth participated in an average of six educational lessons over three […]

UMaine Extension 4-H Camp and Learning Centers provide year-round nature-based programs for youth ages 4-17, fostering positive social and emotional learning experiences. Using evidence-based practices, these experiences develop a sense of place, belonging, and confidence outdoors, and offer educational pathways to post-secondary success in Maine’s rural areas. Programs include day and residential camps, Outdoor School, […]

The 4-H Ocean Xplorers program, offered by UMaine Extension and the Belfast Free Library, introduced over 70 mid-coast Maine youth to marine-related career opportunities through hands-on activities. This initiative aims to address labor shortages and foster environmental stewardship by sparking interest in ocean sciences and providing local career pathways. Monthly activities included designing aquaponics systems, […]

Maine’s 4-H Aquaculture programs expanded to include Virtual Field Trips (VFTs) in 2024, connecting youth globally with industry experts and sustainable aquaculture practices. These immersive experiences, accessible via web browsers and virtual reality tools, connect youth with industry experts, showcase cutting-edge technologies and offer a deep understanding of sustainable aquaculture’s role in Maine’s food systems. […]

Youth seeking out-of-school learning opportunities face challenges like parents’ work schedules, transportation and limited local options. Virtual learning offers a solution by providing flexible, accessible opportunities that foster belonging, engagement and experiential learning. Materials are mailed to participants to reduce barriers, allowing youth to engage at their comfort level, supported by mentors and content experts. […]

According to the 2023 Maine Youth Integrated Health Survey, only about half of Maine’s high schoolers feel like they matter to people in their community. Teens need to feel valued to be civically engaged. The 4-H Youth Have a Voice program introduces teens to civic processes, connects them with peers and adults, and supports them […]

The 4-H Community Central program in Lewiston and Portland offers high school students opportunities for workforce skill development and career/college exploration, connecting them with professionals and increasing their social capital. In 2024, two 4-H professionals provided programming in partnership with public schools and housing authorities. Short-term SPIN clubs connected teens with local professionals, while long-term […]