Dallas County-Alabama Extension

08/21/2026

You’ve probably heard of elderberry, but did you know it grows naturally across Alabama?

American elderberry is native to eastern North America and can often be found along Alabama streambanks and field edges. Its clusters of small white flowers appear in spring, followed by deep purple-black berries that ripen from summer into early fall.

Elderberries have been part of the regional diet for centuries and are used today in everything from syrups and jams to juices and beverages.

Knowing what you’re looking at matters. Several plants found in Alabama can resemble elderberry, and some look-alikes are highly toxic.

Learn how to identify elderberry, how it grows and why it has potential for Alabama farms and landscapes: https://www.aces.edu/go/6724

08/21/2026

It’s count day! The Great Southeast Pollinator Census is happening today and tomorrow, August 21–22, and we need your help putting Alabama’s pollinators on the map.

Getting involved is easy—and it only takes 15 minutes:
• Print your counting sheet.
• Find a pollinator-friendly plant.
• Watch for 15 minutes.
• Record the insects that land.
• Upload your count.

Whether you count in your backyard, garden, schoolyard or community, your observations become part of a larger scientific effort to better understand and conserve pollinators across the Southeast.

People of all ages can participate, so grab your family, coworkers, classmates or friends and head outside. Even Aubie is counting—will you join him?

Learn more about the count here: https://www.aces.edu/go/GreatSoutheastPollinatorCensus

You can directly download your count sheet here: https://www.aces.edu/go/6685

08/20/2026

Increase in Cyclosporiasis Cases Highlights Importance of Food Safety

This summer, US health officials have reported an increase in the number of domestic cyclosporiasis cases—an illness caused by the microscopic parasite, Cyclospora (Cyclospora cayetanensis). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been more than 1,500 confirmed cases since May 1, with additional illnesses currently being investigated. Read more https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/food-safety/increase-in-cyclosporiasis-cases-highlights-importance-of-food-safety/

08/19/2026

Attached is the revised flyer with active QR code.

08/19/2026

08/18/2026

BREAKING NEWS: This online class comes with a LIVE human instructor! While we offer a self-paced CFL course, we're also throwing in a live Zoom session on August 27 at 1:00 PM.

You'll get:
✅ Important food safety information
✅ Cottage food law guidance
✅ Answers to your questions
✅ A live instructor who occasionally tells jokes
(quality not guaranteed 😂)
Grab your favorite snack and join us online! Register: www.aces.edu/go/cottagelaw

08/18/2026

Visit this station to learn safe, research-based techniques for canning, drying, and freezing fish and produce!
Participants will receive valuable resources and guidance for preserving foods safely at home. You will also learn about the Alabama Cottage Food Law and an Alabama Extension Food Safety Agent will be available to answer your questions!!!

08/18/2026

Herdbuilder Replacement Female Sale

The 2026 Herdbuilder Replacement Female Sale is Friday, August 28 at 11 a.m. The sale will be at the Alabama Livestock Auction located at 700 Highway 80 East, Uniontown, AL 36786. This sale is known for the quality and reputation of both the cattle and the consignors to the sale. Read more https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/beef/herdbuilder-replacement-female-sale/

08/17/2026

August is National Breastfeeding Month!🤱

This month, we celebrate the importance of supporting families and recognizing that every breastfeeding journey is unique. Breastfeeding provides ideal nutrition for infants, helps support healthy growth and immune function, and offers health benefits for breastfeeding parents, too. Reach out to your local WIC clinic, healthcare provider, or lactation professional for guidance and support.

08/17/2026

Alabama Extension Launches Branch and Bloom Society

Service is at the heart of the Alabama Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program. Through a network of Extension agents and trained volunteers, the program is an active partner across Alabama — devoting time and expertise to improving communities and helping residents flourish in their gardening journeys. Read more https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/lawn-garden/alabama-extension-launches-branch-and-bloom-society/