Extension Perspectives Newsletter – July 2026

July 14, 2026 News, Waldo County 4-H Newsletter

Mark your calendar! 

Click here for a list of all events, workshops and classes throughout Extension. 

In Person and On Demand Events here.

Happening in Waldo County

  • Tuesday, Sept 8 – WCEA Meeting

In this issue…

WCEA

Commercial Agriculture

Home Horticulture

4-H Happenings

Maine Families

Waldo County Extension Association (WCEA)

Waldo County Executive Association is Looking for New Members

Do you have a passion for sustainable agriculture?  Do you support community and family programming?  Are you a farmer, educator, gardener or perhaps a small business owner in Waldo County?  The Waldo County Executive Association (WCEA) is looking for new members to be part of our small but mighty board – a group that advocates for and supports the mission of the Waldo County Cooperative Extension.

I have been a member of the WCEA for the past six years and I am constantly amazed by the work being done by our county staff and volunteers. Extension in our community provides education and support for commercial farmers, gardeners at all levels, children and  families through programs such as Maine Families, 4H, the Master Gardener’s program, and Rural Living Day.  The Cooperative Extension is an invaluable resource for farmers, gardeners, homesteaders, and families.  The Midcoast Sustainable Agriculture Program connects farmers through conversation, education, and demonstration; promotes sustainable farming practices; and strengthens the regional agricultural community through technical support and consultation.  Extension staff include experts in agriculture, food preservation, parenting, horticulture and more.  All of this information is available to anyone living in Waldo County.  In addition, the WCEA supports an annual scholarship that provides financial assistance to a local student pursuing a field that aligns with the mission of extension.  Recipients have gone on to be teachers, nutritionists, veterinary technicians and more.

If this speaks to you and you would like to learn more, please contact Billiejo Pendleton at the extension offices, billiejo.pendleton@maine.edu, for more information, to connect with a current association member or to attend an upcoming meeting. We look forward to hearing from you.

Rural Living Day 2027 in the Works

We know how much we all look forward to Rural Living Day and we do, too, especially after the success of the 30th anniversary event last year. However we are taking a pause this year to engage more volunteers in the planning and implementation of the event for April 2027 and beyond. Anyone interested in serving on the program committee should contact Pat Blakeslee at pat.blakeslee@gmail.com. The sooner we get started, the better.

Commercial Agriculture

Virtual Farm Tour

Various Dates and Times. We are excited to introduce an interactive online platform designed to empower farmers with essential knowledge on livestock health. This innovative online experience offers easy-to-understand resources, interactive tools, and expert guidance to help farmers prevent and manage animal health issues effectively. Farmers can enhance their disease preparedness skills and make informed decisions to improve the well-being and productivity of their livestock. https://extension.umaine.edu/livestock/animal-health-hub/?

UMaine Extension to Host Sustainable Agriculture Research Tour

University of Maine Cooperative Extension will host its annual Sustainable Agriculture Research Tour on Wednesday, August 5 from 2–5:45 p.m. at Rogers Forage and Crops Research Farm, part of UMaine’s Agricultural and Forest Experiment Station, 914 Bennoch Road, Old Town. Sign-in opens at 1:30 p.m.

The tour is designed for farmers, agricultural professionals and community members interested in sustainable production systems. Extension and the UMaine School of Food and Agriculture will showcase field research on organic cropping, soil health, forages, agroforestry and wild blueberries. Refreshments will be provided on site and pesticide and certified crop advisor credits are pending approval.

For more information or to register, visit the program webpage. The event is free and open to the public. For more information or to request a reasonable accommodation, contact Melissa Libby Babcock at 207.581.2788 or melissa.libby1@maine.edu.

Home Horticulture

Webinar Series: Preserving the Maine Harvest 2026

The UMaine Cooperative Extension home food preservation staff is excited to announce the return of our popular food preservation webinars this summer! The 2026 webinar series will cover preserving different seasonal foods in a live format with the ability to ask the experts all your questions. Topics include fermenting pickles, freeze drying foods, and quick and easy methods of preserving for the busy cook. We hope to see you online! Register here: https://umaine-extension.formtitan.com/ftproject/events?eventid=a1cUy000006aZev

Boiling Water Bath Canning Workshop

Date:  Thursday, August 3
Time: 10:00 a.m – 1:00 p.m.
Location:  United Farmers Market 18 Spring St., Belfast
Cost: $25 

Ever wonder how to best preserve all those fresh summer vegetables? This hands-on food preservation workshop taught by UMaine Extension volunteers and staff will teach you the basic steps for boiling water bath canning, according to the latest safety recommendations from USDA. Participants will receive a Preserving the Harvest food preservation packet, a headspace measuring tool, and will bring home a jar of what we make. Participants will learn recommended methods for preserving foods, the latest and safest recipes, about equipment to ensure safety, and how to check for properly sealed ja rs. Please bring a potholder with you to the workshop. 

To register or if a reasonable accommodation is needed, call Laurie Bowen laurie.bowen@maine.edu 207-942-7396. extension.umaine.edu/food-health/food-preservation/hands-on-workshops

Plant Disease Diagnostics

Gaining expertise in plant health just got easier—and more rewarding for your professional credentials.
The University of Maine Cooperative Extension is proud to launch our latest online resource: Plant Disease Diagnostics. This self-paced course is designed to move you beyond guesswork, providing a scientific, 5-step workflow to identify and manage plant pathogens in the Northeast.

Whether you are managing a commercial greenhouse, a professional landscape, or a productive home garden, this learning experience offers high-level training and tangible professional benefits. Developed by UMaine Extension specialist Dr. Alicyn Smart, the learning experience focuses on practical, evidence-based skills. In approximately 6 hours of interactive learning, you will learn:

  • The 5-Step diagnostic process: From host identification to action planning.
  • Biotic vs. Abiotic Stress: Distinguish between living pathogens (fungi, bacteria, viruses) and environmental factors (nutrient deficiencies, frost, or herbicide drift).
  • Symptom Recognition: Learn to accurately name and analyze signs like chlorosis, cankers, and wilting.
  • Sample Submission: Best practices for packaging and sending samples to our nationally accredited lab.

Earn Credits and Credentials

This is more than just a learning opportunity—it is a significant boost to your professional profile:

  1. 6 Pesticide Recertification Credits: Successful completion is approved for six (6) credits from the Maine Board of Pesticide Control, making this an efficient way for Maine private pesticide applicators to fulfill the 6 recertification credits required every three years to renew their license.
  2. UMaine Digital Badge: Participants will earn the Plant Disease Diagnostics micro-badge. This verifiable digital credential can be showcased on LinkedIn, resumes, and business websites to demonstrate your specialized expertise to clients and employers.

Enroll here:  discover.maine.edu/product?catalog=Plant_Disease_Diagnostics

Related Programs and Resources

UMaine Extension Garden and Yard 

The University of Maine Cooperative Extension Garden and Yard publications are available to download. 

You can find these publications at extension.umaine.edu/programs/. 

4-H Happenings

Immersive Outdoor Leadership Program for High School Students Offered at Historic Tanglewood 4-H Camp and Learning Center

Applications are open for the University of Maine Early College Outdoor Leadership Program, a multi-week intensive running from July 19 to July 31, 2026. Hosted at Tanglewood 4-H Camp and Learning Center in Lincolnville, the program invites high school students ages 15–18 to learn the role of outdoor professionals, teaching them how to lead group expeditions, manage wilderness risks and navigate some of Maine’s natural landscapes.

The program is a collaborative initiative between Early College and University of Maine Cooperative Extension. It is primarily a field-based practice, allowing students to experience the day-to-day responsibilities of field guides, environmental educators and search-and-rescue personnel.

Students complete official university coursework to earn 4 college credits, gaining a first-hand look at college-level environmental and recreational studies. These credits can be applied toward a degree at UMaine or transferred to other institutions. Participants also practice hands-on medical scenarios to earn a nationally recognized Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification, a foundational credential required for professional Registered Maine Guides, camp trip leaders and wilderness youth leaders. Additional skills taught through the course include group navigation, trip planning, Leave No Trace ethics, and learning how to confidently manage a team and make critical decisions in backcountry settings.

The program uses a small-group cohort model, allowing students to work closely with peers who share their interest in the outdoors. To ensure the program is accessible, tuition assistance and scholarships are available for eligible families.

Parents and students can find detailed information on the course breakdown, fees and application requirements by visiting the Outdoor Leadership Program webpage. To request a reasonable accommodation, please contact Ryder Scott at 207.665.2935 or ryder.scott@maine.edu.

Waldo County 4-H is Hiring!

Do you know someone who would love working in a dynamic and rewarding environment? If so, please share this opportunity with them—let’s help find our next great team member! 

The University of Maine Cooperative Extension is seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated 4-H Youth Development Professional to join our team serving Waldo County youth and communities. This position plays a vital role in strengthening and expanding 4-H programs through youth engagement, volunteer development, community partnerships, and experiential learning opportunities. Working collaboratively with the Tanglewood 4-H Camp and Learning Center team, the successful candidate will develop and deliver educational programs that help young people build leadership, life skills, environmental awareness, and a sense of belonging. The ideal candidate will be passionate about positive youth development, skilled at building relationships with youth and adult volunteers, and committed to creating inclusive opportunities that support the diverse needs of Waldo County communities. Typical hiring range for this position is $45,000 to $48,000 commensurate with qualifications and experience. Application Deadline: 8/3/26 @ 4:30p.m. 

For questions, contact our search chair, Kristy Ouellette, kristy.ouellette@maine.edu

Complete Job Description

Apply Here

Early College Outdoor Intensives

The UMaine 4-H Camps and Learning Centers at Tanglewood and Greenland Point are each offering Early College programs in conjunction with the University of Maine Division of Lifelong Learning. KPE 265 is a 3-credit course focused on skills in outdoor recreation. This is an introductory course in outdoor and adventure activities, forming the foundation of an outdoor leadership education. The course focuses primarily on participation in four different activity categories: canoeing; bouldering and climbing; hiking and orienteering; and challenge course. KPE 207 is a 1-credit course where participants become certified in wilderness first aid (WFA) and CPR.

Registration: Participants must complete enrollment with the University of Maine Early College Program. Once that is completed we will send you an invitation to enroll for the Tanglewood portion of the program.

UMaine tuition for this course is free for Maine high school students (public school & homeschoolers). Tuition for out-of-state students and Maine private school students is $149 for 2026 per credit for a total fee of $596 for 2026. (Please note there is an overnight fee for this course for all participants). Overnight fees: $900, including all housing, meals, and certification fees, scholarships available.

Tanglewood Dates: July 19 – 31, 2026. Ages: 15 – 18. Visit the website for more information and registration links. Email Tanglewood directly with any questions.

Greenland Point Dates: August 2 – 12, 2026. Ages: 16 – 18. Visit the website for more information and registration links. Email Greenland Point directly with any questions.

Resource Spotlight

4-H Club Leader Handbook is a resource designed to help new club leaders get off to a strong start, containing specific information for facilitating the 4-H club model. Check out this amazing resource online https://extension.umaine.edu/4h/volunteers/club-leader-handbook/ or contact your county office for a printed copy. 

New 4-H Rabbit and Poultry Opportunity!

4-H members now have an exciting new opportunity to showcase their skills at The Big E’s first 4-H Rabbit & Poultry Show! Open to youth ages 12 and above, this event is a great way to learn new skills, compete in regional 4-H shows, and connect with others who share an interest in rabbits and poultry.

Participants can look forward to a variety of engaging activities, including breed shows, showmanship competitions, agility contests, and more. Whether you’re experienced or just getting started, this event offers something for everyone. Interested in participating or learning more? Be sure to complete the interest form.

For more information please contact Sadee Mehuren at 207.342.5971 or sadee.mehuren@maine.edu.

Maine State 4-H Dairy Show

Maine 4-H invites you to participate in the 2026 Maine 4-H State Dairy Show! This year’s event will take place on July 18th and 19th at the Windsor Fairgrounds. The contests are open to all 4-H dairy project members ages nine and above and include a grilled cheese and milkshake cookoff, a dairy cattle fitting contest, and a dairy cattle show. For a complete schedule and registration information, visit the Maine State 4-H Dairy Show Website.

Animal Science Challenge

The Maine 4-H Foundation is offering a challenge to 4-H animal science committees and programs. The Foundation will match up to $3,000 per committee to support animal science programs and educational programs. A 1 to 1 match will be made for current and past donors, and 1:2 matches for new donors. Questions can be asked by contacting Susan Jennings at 207.615.7300, or email maine4hfoundation@gmail.com.

July 2026 4-H Volunteer Corner: Your corner for connection, tips, and tricks!

Developmental relationships are foundational connections between young people and adults or peers. By offering emotional and tangible support, these bonds empower youth to uncover their identities, build resilience, and acquire the necessary social and emotional skills to succeed in life.

As a 4-H volunteer you can focus on these five key elements:

  • Express Care through listening, warmth, and dependability.
  • Challenge Growth, expect their best and help them reflect on failures.
    • Provide Support, empower and advocate, help youth navigate systems and set appropriate boundaries.
    • Share Power  through inclusion, respect and collaboration.
    • Expand Possibilities by exposing youth to new ideas and opportunities; connect them with others who can help them reach their goals. 

4-H Volunteer Summit

Saturday, November 7, 2026

THIS event is going to be SO MUCH FUN! Along with interactive workshops, and a 4-H Discovery Zone, there will be a delicious lunch and door prizes! Save the date, check out the 4-H Volunteer Summit webpage and look for registration to open soon!

Resource Corner

We have a great national 4-H website! If you haven’t taken time to peruse the site, there is lots of good information and resources to be found. One interesting resource is the  Ready for Fair Series. It consists of short videos from 4-H members in Virginia as they share what it is like to participate in animal projects with their eyes on the fair shows- three great young people!

Waldo County 4-H Calendar extension.umaine.edu/waldo/4h/4-h-calendar/

State 4-H Calendar extension.umaine.edu/4h/events/category/calendar/month/

For more information on how to get involved in Waldo County 4-H, please contact your local UMaine Cooperative Extension 4-H office at 207.342.5971.

Maine Families   

July: Summer Safety

Summer is a time for play, movement, and being outside together. With all that fun also comes new safety considerations for young children. Young children are still learning how their bodies work and how to stay safe. They rely on adults to create safe environments while they explore. Simple, everyday habits can help keep children safe while still allowing them the freedom to play and learn. Safety doesn’t have to feel stressful or overwhelming—it can be built into daily routines in calm, consistent ways.

Small steps can make a big difference.

  • Apply sunscreen before going outside
  • Offer water regularly throughout the day
  • Stay close during outdoor play, especially near water
  • Do a quick “safety scan” of your space before play

July Activity: Water Play & Stay Cool

Water play is a great way to stay cool while supporting development. You’ll need A bowl, bucket, or small bin of water, cups, spoons, or small toys

How to Do It: Set up a simple water play area outside or in a shaded space. Let your child scoop, pour, splash, and explore, stay within arm’s reach at all times.

Talk about what they’re doing: “Pouring!”, “Full cup!”, “Splash!”

Multi-Age Ideas: Babies: Sit with support and splash hands or feet in shallow water. Toddlers: Pour and dump water between containers. Preschoolers: Practice filling, dumping, or “washing” toys.Home Visiting and Support
If you have questions about Maine Families Home Visiting in Waldo County or want to learn more about our upcoming Group Connections, please call us at 207.322.2879 or email melanie.l.bryan@maine.edu.

Maine Families Group Connections

Join us for a relaxed monthly gathering to meet and connect with other parents and families. Use our welcoming space to share experiences, and build community while children play and explore together. All families are welcome!

3rd Wednesday of each month | 10–11 AM @UMaine Cooperative Extension, 992 Waterville Rd., Waldo

Bumps & Babies Group

Pregnant or caring for a baby or young child? Join us for connection, support, and resources. 2nd & 4th Tuesday of the month from 12:30 – 2 PM at the Waldo County YMCA, Belfast
Questions? Bri Fokine RN, CLC –  207-975-5168

To Sign up for the Extension Perspectives Newsletter, click here, call 207.342.5971 or email billiejo.pendleton@maine.edu.

University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to fostering a nondiscriminatory environment and complying with all applicable nondiscrimination laws. Consistent with State and Federal law, UMaine Extension does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, familial status, ancestry, age, disability physical or mental, genetic information, veterans or military status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in employment, education, and all other programs and activities.

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