Nebraska Extension in Thurston County

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Nebraska Extension in Thurston County Extension is committed to helping Nebraskans Know how — and Know now.

We are dedicated to life-long learning and are an important component of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's commitment to outreach education serving the citizens of this state. You'll find non-biased information that can help you to make informed decisions about many topics in your life. Extension is a Division of the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln cooperating with the Counties and the United States Department of Agriculture. University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension educational programs abide with the nondiscrimination policies of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the United states Department of Agriculture.

Did you know over half of all foodborne illnesses come from unclean hands? 🦠 The best defense is washing your hands with...
10/09/2026

Did you know over half of all foodborne illnesses come from unclean hands? 🦠 The best defense is washing your hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds, both before and after handling food. This simple step is crucial when preparing food for others. 🧼🍽 Keep your team safe and score big on food safety this weekend! 🏈 Learn more here: https://go.unl.edu/gamedayfoodsafety

Getting ready to tackle a game day spread? 🏈 Make sure your favorite dishes are remembered for all the right reasons! 🥳 ...
10/09/2026

Getting ready to tackle a game day spread? 🏈 Make sure your favorite dishes are remembered for all the right reasons! 🥳 Follow these essential tips to keep food poisoning off the field. https://go.unl.edu/gamedayfoodsafety

Did you know that almost two-thirds of rural Nebraskans use the trails near their communities? Join us for the next Nebr...
10/07/2026

Did you know that almost two-thirds of rural Nebraskans use the trails near their communities? Join us for the next Nebraska Rural Poll webinar, where we’ll discuss trails and trail systems in rural Nebraska. Special guest speakers will share insights on why Nebraskans use trails, how much, and ideas on how trails can improve. Wednesday, Oct. 21, 12 p.m. - 1 p.m. CT. Register at ruralpoll.unl.edu.

10/05/2026

Floods have a big impact on a lot of things, not the least of which is our landscape. There are few strategies for preventing damage, but care of our plants after can go a long way to helping them recover. Check out https://hles.unl.edu/floods/ for how to help your yard and garden after the waters.

Two things to focus on are:
Any harvestable produce from the garden isn't safe to eat and should be disposed of. There are many contaminants in water and it isn't possible to know what is safe.

Damaged plant material should be removed as soon as possible to prevent secondary pest and disease issues. Prune broken branches from trees and shrubs and trim leaves and stems from perennials.

Reach out to your local Extension office for more information.

Photo of trees in a park with floodwater on the lawn.

We’re off to a strong start with another year of partnering with local afterschool programs!For our first STEM activity,...
09/30/2026

We’re off to a strong start with another year of partnering with local afterschool programs!
For our first STEM activity, students put their engineering skills to the test by building mini slingshots using popsicle sticks and rubber bands. They experimented with different designs and discovered how force, angle, and their design choices affected how far their pom-pom traveled.
Students had a blast testing and improving their creations. We’re excited for another great year of hands-on STEM learning!

Discover & Design | Tree Knot Clay Impressions 🌳This tree knot exploration offers children a fun, hands-on way to connec...
09/30/2026

Discover & Design | Tree Knot Clay Impressions 🌳
This tree knot exploration offers children a fun, hands-on way to connect with nature. By feeling the different textures on tree bark, children will improve their tactile awareness and fine motor skills. This activity not only builds sensory skills but also fosters curiosity about the natural world and the wonders trees provide.

Book Recommendation: Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf by Lois Ehlert
This story helps children explore the life cycle of a leaf and learn more about nature.

Find other activities and download guide here: go.unl.edu/dnd_projects

Flood waters may be gone, but the impact on our landscapes can linger. Saturated soils, root damage, contaminants, and s...
09/29/2026

Flood waters may be gone, but the impact on our landscapes can linger. Saturated soils, root damage, contaminants, and stressed plants can create long-term challenges. Help plants recover by staying off wet lawns, monitoring for pests, and discarding flooded vegetable crops. Recovery takes time—and patience.

Hello Thurston County 4-H Volunteers!Nebraska 4-H is excited to bring the 4-H Volunteer Road Show to volunteers statewid...
09/28/2026

Hello Thurston County 4-H Volunteers!
Nebraska 4-H is excited to bring the 4-H Volunteer Road Show to volunteers statewide this November! The 4-H Volunteer Road Show will rotate host locations each year, get registered today at the location near you OR attend the virtual session! All registered participants will go in a drawing for a Shop 4-H digital gift card! Please see the attached flyer for details regarding the dates, locations and times. The Volunteer Road Show is a great opportunity to experience project training and new ideas to bring back to your 4-H community. All 4-H volunteers, parents/caregivers and any adult wanting to find THEIR spark while volunteering with 4-H is welcome!

Visit https://4h.unl.edu/volunteer-road-show for more specific information and registration link. Registration closes one week prior to each Road Show session. Registration is $15 per person and includes light refreshments and all supplies for in-person attendees. Registration for virtual attendees is $10, which includes program materials.

09/28/2026

Now Hiring! Applications are open for a 4-H Extension Assistant position focusing on Animal Science in Lancaster County, Nebraska.
Transform lives by delivering, teaching and managing effective educational programming in Animal Science by providing positive youth development to include current and emerging youth issues in assigned area. Must be able to engage youth through diverse learning strategies at appropriate places and times. Ability to travel within service area.

This position is located in Lancaster County.

Application Review Date: October 16, 2023.

For more information and how to apply go to: https://employment.unl.edu/postings/88144

Address

415 Main Street, PO Box 665
Pender, NE
68047

Opening Hours

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

Telephone

+14023856041

Website

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