The university of wisconsin-madison division of extension ('extension') uses smith-lever funding to address issues vital to agriculture, youth, businesses, communities, and families across wisconsin

The National Institute of Food and Agriculture awarded the University of Wisconsin System Division of Extension $19,578,586 in Smith-Lever funding on October 1, 2025, to deliver cooperative extension programming across Wisconsin through the 1862 land-grant research university system under CFDA 10.511.

Extension transforms applied research into measurable outcomes by developing practical applications of knowledge and delivering them statewide through demonstrations, publications, instruction, technical assistance, and volunteer development. County-based educators, regional specialists, and UW-Madison campus faculty deliver programs addressing agriculture, youth, businesses, communities, and families. Smith-Lever funding supports faculty and staff at UW-Madison and partner campuses (UW-Green Bay, UW-Platteville, UW-River Falls, and UW-Stevens Point), enabling growth of applied research and delivery of educational programs.

Extension fulfills its mission through six programmatic institutes: Agriculture, Community Development, Health & Well-Being, Human Development & Relationships, Natural Resources, and Positive Youth Development. Within them, Extension operates more than twenty programs on topics including dairy, land and water, local government education, healthy eating and active living, financial security, and Wisconsin 4-H. Extension also manages research centers and reserves including the Lake Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve, Upham Woods Outdoor Learning Center, UW Center for Cooperatives, and the Wisconsin Geological & Natural History Survey. In agriculture, Extension advances productivity and sustainable food systems that enhance soil, water, animal, and crop health, exploring new technologies such as artificial intelligence and solar energy in agriculture and advising communities on invasive species prevention.

Performance occurs statewide across Wisconsin with administrative oversight at Madison, Wisconsin. The award period runs October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2030.

Extension transforms applied research into measurable outcomes by developing practical applications of knowledge and delivering them statewide through demonstrations, publications, instruction, technical assistance, and volunteer development. Our county-based educators, regional specialists, and UW campus faculty respond daily to emerging and longstanding challenges residents face to compete and prosper. Smith-lever funding supports faculty and staff at UW madison and partner campuses (UW-green BAY, UW platteville, UW river falls, UW stevens point), enabling growth of applied research and delivery of educational programs. Extension fulfills its mission through six programmatic institutes: agriculture, community development, health & well-being, human development & relationships, natural resources, and positive youth development. These institutes, partially supported by other sources, rely on smith-lever funding as the fiscal foundation for statewide outreach. Within them, extension operates more than 20 programs on topics such as dairy, land & water, local government education, healthy eating & active living, financial security, and wisconsin 4-H. Extension also manages research centers and reserves including the lake superior national estuarine research reserve, upham woods outdoor learning center, UW center for cooperatives, covering wisconsin, and the wisconsin geological & natural history survey. Capacity funds strengthen campus and distributed faculty to expand access to research-based education. Agriculture. Extension advances productivity and sustainable food systems that enhance soil, water, animal, and crop health. We explore new technologies such as AI and solar energy in agriculture and advise communities on preventing invasive species. Positive youth development. Through 4-H clubs, groups, and camps, youth discover strengths and build leadership skills. Adult volunteers are trained to foster positive experiences that ripple through communities. Human development & relationships. Programs equip families to care for one another, promote aging-friendly communities, coach parents and caregivers, support early childhood development, and build financial planning skills. Health & well- being. Extension catalyzes community change to promote health, mental well-being, reduce risky substance use, and prevent chronic disease. Natural resources. Research and outreach support forest management, minimize pesticide use, improve water quality and quantity, and strengthen soil health. Community development. Extension informs decision-makers, entrepreneurs, and civic organizations to promote economic success, address community needs, and improve quality of life. Extension's work is documented in the nifa reporting system (NRS), highlighting outputs, outcomes, and impacts that show how research is translated into practice. By investing in people and innovation, extension builds wisconsin's capacity to adapt, prosper, and thrive.