Duval County Extension is a partnership of the City of Jacksonville, the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS),and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Research- based education is offered by trained professionals and volunteers in agriculture, family and consumer sciences, and 4-H youth development. 

Our mission is to continually enhance the quality of life for a unified Jacksonville through strengthening decision making, knowledge application, economic security, environmental care and leadership skills for all citizens.

Sponsored by UF's extension service, the Solutions for Your Life web site provides consumers and industry professionals with a one-stop source of information on family life, gardening, agriculture, the environment and youth development. It serves as a gateway to extension, research and education resources from UF's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, or UF/IFAS.

For a sample of local programs, see the October Captive Audience. Please check our Disaster Handbook for the latest information to help you before, during, and after natural disasters.  In addition the Extension Disaster Education Network has a variety of useful information on preparing for and responding to disasters of all kinds, including hurricanes.

The Duval County Extension Service specializes in four areas:

4H Youth Development 
A fun, educational program for youth ages 5-18. Young people are involved in community clubs, school enrichment groups and short term programs in which they develop skills and knowledge in a variety of project areas through "hands-on" activities and experimental learning.

Family and Consumer Sciences 
Focusing on food, nutrition, health, money managment, family life education, housing and home environment, clothing and textiles, and leadership development.

Agriculture/Horticulture
Specializing in homeowner horticulture, livestock, dairies, nurseries, golf courses.

 

Canning Center
This is the only canning center within the state of Florida that is open to the public and associated with the Florida Cooperative Extension Service.