MU Extension in Boone County

MU Extension in Boone County MU Extension empowers people to improve their lives, businesses and communities by providing practical, relevant, and research-based educational strategies.

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ADA/EOE Employer Educational programs for adults
Single- and multi-session educational programs are offered throughout the year, covering topics in agriculture and horticulture, nutrition and health, families, and community and leadership development. Fees vary by program. Customized training is available. Youth programs
The 4-H Youth Development progra

m offers many ways to engage, grow and serve -- through clubs, camps, contests, conferences, special interest groups, in-school and after-school programs, and more! Soil testing
Basic soil testing analyzes nutrient content and fertility status. Results include fertilizer and lime recommendations. Additional tests are available for nutrient management plans, environmental issues, potting mixes, compost, manure and water usage. Cost is $15 per sample. Private pesticide applicator training
MU Extension provides private pesticide applicator training for producers as required for Missouri Department of Agriculture certification. Individuals must purchase or bring a copy of MU Extension publication M87, Private Pesticide Applicator Reference Manual, to the training. Manuals may be purchased at the extension center. The viewing time of the PAT video is 2 hours and 25 minutes. Please call 573-445-9792 and make an appointment before coming out to the extension office. Canner gauge tests
Testing for dial-type pressure canner lids is available. Dial-type gauges should be tested annually to ensure accuracy and prevent bacterial contamination of preserved foods. (Testing is not necessary for weighted gauges.) The cost is $1 per canner lid. Publications
MU Extension provides publications -- most of which can be downloaded for free from the web site -- on a wide variety of topics related to agriculture, natural resources, lawn and garden, home and consumer life, nutrition and health, families, community and leadership development, business and careers, emergency management and more.

Outdoor recreation is more than just fun in Missouri. It's a major economic driver.In 2024, outdoor recreation contribut...
09/10/2026

Outdoor recreation is more than just fun in Missouri. It's a major economic driver.

In 2024, outdoor recreation contributed $10.67 billion to Missouri's economy and supported 90,600 jobs across industries including retail, manufacturing, hospitality and tourism. Missouri stands out nationally for its strong hunting economy, ranking among the top states for hunting participation and related spending.

Missouri's state parks also play an important role. Nearly 20 million visitors each year support local restaurants, shops, lodging and outdoor businesses. Visitor and household spending related to state parks is estimated to support 11,900 jobs and contribute $883 million to Missouri's GDP in 2025.

Read the latest Missouri Economy Indicators for details.
Link in the comments.

09/09/2026

Fall is garlic planting season. Plant now, harvest next summer.

This quick reel demonstrates the basics of planting garlic, but there's more to know when it comes to selecting varieties, preparing the soil and getting the best harvest possible.

Join the upcoming virtual workshop to learn more.
◾Sept. 21 • 6 – 8 p.m.
◾Register today: https://brnw.ch/21x5yHF

09/08/2026

Need an easy weeknight dinner that won't break the bank?

This Southwest Chicken and Rice recipe combines chicken, black beans, corn, tomatoes and brown rice for a flavorful, protein-packed meal that's compatible with an alpha-gal-friendly lifestyle.*

Using simple pantry and freezer staples, this one-pan recipe comes together quickly and costs just $8 to $10 for the entire dish. That's about four hearty servings for only $2 to $2.50 each.

Recipe card: https://brnw.ch/21x5x9x

*Omit cheese if you have dairy intolerance reactions or use vegan cheese.

Labor Day marks the unofficial transition from summer to fall in the garden, making now the perfect time to start prepar...
09/07/2026

Labor Day marks the unofficial transition from summer to fall in the garden, making now the perfect time to start preparing for the next season. MU Extension horticulturist David Trinklein recommends focusing on a few key tasks to keep your garden productive and healthy.

◾Harvest late-season vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers and squash.
◾Plant cool-season favorites like lettuce, spinach, kale, broccoli and radishes.
◾Divide overcrowded perennials, including hostas, irises and daylilies.
◾Seed or overseed cool-season lawns and fertilize established turf.
◾Begin fall cleanup by removing dead plant material that can harbor pests and diseases.

A little effort now can help set the stage for a healthier garden and landscape next spring.

Read more autumn gardening tips from MU Extension: https://brnw.ch/21x5vd6

A new soybean pest has been confirmed in Missouri for the second time.MU Extension state crops entomologist Ivair Valmor...
09/04/2026

A new soybean pest has been confirmed in Missouri for the second time.

MU Extension state crops entomologist Ivair Valmorbida confirmed the latest finding of the soybean tentiform leafminer in Macon County on Aug. 19. First detected in Missouri in 2025, this emerging pest feeds inside soybean leaves, creating distinctive "mines" that can reduce leaf area.

Farmers are encouraged to scout soybean fields, especially along field edges near wooded areas, and contact their local MU Extension agronomist if they suspect soybean tentiform leafminer activity. Researchers are continuing to study the insect's distribution and potential impact on soybean production.

Learn how to identify this pest and what researchers know so far: https://brnw.ch/21x5rFl

09/03/2026

Would Zoe's college experience be the same without 4-H?

As a nursing student, Zoe says Missouri 4-H helped her build the confidence, communication and leadership skills she relies on today. The experiences she gained through 4-H helped prepare her for college and gave her a strong foundation for success.

Her story is just one example of how Missouri 4-H helps young people grow through hands-on learning, leadership opportunities and service experiences that build skills for college, careers and life.

Open enrollment begins Oct. 1. Learn how to get your child involved: https://brnw.ch/21x5q0c

09/02/2026

Even though it's September, it still feels like summer outside. That makes this cool, refreshing watermelon salad the perfect way to enjoy the season's fresh flavors a little longer.

This alpha-gal friendly salad combines juicy watermelon, ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumber and fresh basil for a light, refreshing dish that's perfect for family meals, cookouts or any warm-weather gathering.

Best of all, it costs just about $6 to $7 for the entire recipe, making it an affordable way to enjoy the best of summer's harvest.

Recipe card: https://brnw.ch/21x5nMu

09/02/2026

There is still time to register for the Tree-Mendous Ride on the Katy Trail near Columbia, MO. Join us to learn about and help support forest conservation. Details can be found at forestandwoodland.org.

Stronger connections = healthier communities.Through the ShowMe Connection project, eligible participants can take free ...
09/01/2026

Stronger connections = healthier communities.

Through the ShowMe Connection project, eligible participants can take free MU Extension classes focused on:
• Healthy relationships
• Physical activity
• Mental health awareness

If you live in a rural area, are 18+ and can complete a short training, you may qualify! Eligibility required. Spots are limited.

Contact Candace Rodman to express interest and learn more: https://brnw.ch/21x5m7S

This work is supported by ShowMe Connection, project award no. 2025-46100-45377 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture

Address

1012 N Highway UU
Columbia, MO
65203

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 8am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 8am - 4:30pm
Thursday 8am - 4:30pm
Friday 8am - 4:30pm

Telephone

+15734459792

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