Marlin Bates, Director of the Douglas County Extension office, presides over a unique community resource with a historical legacy of service. The county extension service developed from the national effort to establish land grant colleges in the 1860’s. The movement was intended to “take the university to the people” and had an emphasis on agriculture. Each county in the state has an Extension office, representing a partnership with Kansas State University, and Federal, State, and County governments. Extension is dedicated to a safe, sustainable and competitive food and fiber system, and strong and healthy communities, families and youth, through integrated research, analysis and education.
Extension provides a numerous educational programs and services. There are a number off youth programs including 4-H and summer camps. An extensive resource library provides information on horticulture, crops and livestock, health, wellness, nutrition and home and family. Extension specialists are also available to answer questions and provide recommendations. The annual 4-H fair is a poplar community event that draws thousands of attendees every summer. Douglas County Extension is on the radio on Wednesdays at 9:15 am on 101.7 FM and AM 1320. The Extension Office and 4-H Building are located at 2110 Harper, on the fair grounds.
