on the edge of the super caldera - oregon state university...james j. pestka - michigan state...

Western Extension and Research Directorspresent the

2016 Awards of ExcellenceJuly 13, 2016

On the Edge of the Super Caldera

Western Region Joint Summer Meeting, July 11-14, 2016Holiday Inn, Bozeman, MT

A Hot Pot of Research, Outreach & Education

2 2016 Awards of Excellence

Rural Agricultural Improvement and Public Affairs Project (RAIPAP) New Mexico State University

Abstract: The Indigenous farmers/ranchers of northern New Mexico, with the oldest history of farming/ranching in the continental U.S., are threatened due to loss of land, custom, culture, tradition and language. The RAIPAP has assisted over 5,000 Hispanic and Native American families with one-on-one, traditional and culturally-accepted Extension educational programs over the past few years in the areas of sustainable agriculture; value-added agriculture; small business development; and leadership and organizational development; the target region being one of the most economically deprived, yet culturally and historically rich regions of the country. The programs provided by the RAIPAP with the assistance of the SFRTF and CES specialists, have given hope to the socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers in northern New Mexico for a continuance of not just economic survival, but a hope for the next generation to continue with the rich tradition of their ancestral custom, culture, language and ultimate lifestyle.

WEDA Awards of Excellence

2016 Awards of Excellence 3

Project Team R. Edmund Gomez, Assistant Department Head, Project Director,

Alcalde Science CenterAugusta Archuleta, Administrative Assistant, Alcalde Science CenterDel Jimenez, Sustainable Agriculture Specialist, Alcalde Science CenterJoseph Garcia, Southern Pueblo Agriculture Agent, Alcalde Science CenterTory Hoagland, Northern Pueblo Agriculture Agent,

Alcalde Science CenterJudy Finley, Small Business Agriculture Agent, Alcalde Science Center


4 2016 Awards of Excellence

Colorado Building Farmers

Colorado State University (CSU) Extension

Abstract: Across Colorado new markets are emerging for ag producers where entry and successful competition depend on realistic and targeted business planning, access to resources, developing marketing channels, and having sufficient business plans and records to secure financing. Although new markets produce new income streams, they also precipitate new production, price, policy and financial risks. So, this outreach programming evaluated changes in tenure, production practices, marketing outlets and business planning to cultivate new customers and markets among its beginning farmer participants. This project targeted producers in six regions of Colorado, and partnered with colleagues who provided similar programs in five other states. Each region developed an advisory committee to design classroom programs and participated or taught to introduce participants to community business development partners. Since 2007 in Colorado, more than 300 producers completed the program, almost 200 developed business plans and 23 subsequently worked with an experienced producer-mentor to implement plans and advance their business goals. Moreover, there is a stronger producer network for those entering agriculture who can provide expertise, a sense of community, and the opportunity to build business relationships.


2016 Awards of Excellence 5


Team Leadership Adrian Card, Boulder CountyDawn Thilmany, DARE Extension SpecialistDarrin Parmenter, La Plata CountyMartha Sullins, Extension Regional SpecialistRebecca Hill, DARE Extension

Participating Agents & Key PartnersKaren Crumbaker, Larimer CountyKurt Jones, Chaffee CountyDanielle Dubois, Arapahoe CountyBeth LaShell, Fort Lewis CollegeBuck Adams & Rich Murphy, Veterans to FarmersBarb Bates & Becky Butterfield, El Paso CountyJames Pritchett, College of Ag SciencesKellie Enns, Ag Education

6 2016 WAAESD Award

W3122 Beneficial and Adverse Effects of Natural, Bioactive Dietary Chemicals on Human Health and Food Safety

Abstract: Bioactive chemicals are found naturally in foods or introduced during food processing and cooking. These chemicals can have both beneficial and undesirable effects on human health. Since 1971, this multidisciplinary group of scientists from 15 U.S. universities and the USDA-Agricultural Research Service have advanced our understanding of bioactive dietary chemicals, thus identifying ways to improve human health and safety and expand agricultural markets.

The herbal products and food supplement industry is valued at an estimated $20 billion per year in the U.S. and is continuing to grow. Effective products could reduce medical costs and provide farmers with new specialty crop opportunities; however, inadequate quality control and understanding of potential toxicity could allow harmful substances to enter the food supply. For example, certain fungal compounds found in corn, ground nuts, and tree nuts can damage DNA and promote cancer. Phytoestrogens in soy, especially concentrates, cause certain types of tumors. Conversely, omega-3 fatty acids produced by plants and algae and concentrated in certain fish species can promote health.

The work that W3122 researchers have conducted has increased our understanding of the complex relationship between bioactive dietary chemicals and human health, which is of paramount concern to consumers, agricultural producers, food processors, health professionals, and policymakers charged with maintaining a safe and nutritious food supply.

WAAESD Award

2016 WAAESD Award 7

W3122 Beneficial and Adverse Effects of Natural, Bioactive Dietary Chemicals on Human Health and Food Safety

Team MembersNicholas T. Bello - Rutgers UniversityAbby D. Benninghoff - Utah State UniversityLeonard Bjeldanes - University of California, Berkeley Randy Burd - University of Arizona Hong Chen - University of Illinois Roger Coulombe - Utah State Michael S. Denison - University of California, Davis Rick Eisenstein - University of WisconsinYuhua Z. Farnell - Mississippi State University Mendel Friedman - USDA/ARS-California Girish Ganjyal - Washington State University Mingruo Guo - University of Vermont William Helferich - University of IllinoisKirsten Limesand - University of Arizona Emmanuelle Meuillet - University of ArizonaPratibha V. Nerurkar - University of Hawaii Daniel K. Nomura - University of California, Berkeley James J. Pestka - Michigan State University D. Ramkishan Rao - NIFA Marie-Louise Ricketts - University of Nevada Ronald T. Riley - USDA-ARS/Georgia Donato Romagnolo - University of Arizona Pushparajah Thavarajah - North Dakota State University Nancy D. Turner - Texas AgriLife Research Tiffany Weir - Colorado State University David E. Williams - Oregon State UniversityMeijun Zhu - Washington State University

WAAESD Award

8 2016 State Programs

Women Owning Woodland Network Oregon State University

Abstract: Oregon’s Women Owning Woodlands Network (WOWNet) is empowering women to grow from silent observers to active learners and inquirers, to mentors and teachers through its collaborative, peer-to-peer network. WOWNet’s innovative approaches have attracted professionals from around the nation who have mimicked the program in their regions. In collaboration with these and other nationwide stakeholders, Oregon WOWNet influenced and helped in the formation of a national network of women who own and manage forest properties. The impacts of this program are evident in WOWNets 10-year success in its home state as well as in emulation nationwide.

Team members Tiffany Fegel WOWNet Coordinator Nicole Strong, Extension Forester

Economic Decision-Making Tools for Conventional, Organic, and Sustainable Agrilcultral Production Practices in CaliforniaUniversity of California, Davis

Abstract: Karen Klonsky’s nomination is supported by extraordinary achievements as an Extension Specialist at UC Davis. Klonsky worked with growers of 100+ commodities, farm advisors, bankers, interdisciplinary teams of researchers, and policymakers. We nominate her to recognize tools she developed for economic decision-making, guiding growers in determining crop selection and when to use conventional, organic and other sustainable practices. Klonsky addressed a diversity of production economics in 464 publications, appearing in peer-reviewed venues, proceedings and UCANR publications. Her statistical anlyses of California agriculture (http://aic.ucdavis.edu/research1/organic.html) and cost and return study series (http://coststudies.ucdavis.edu) are valuable tools used by bankers, growers and researchers for information on production costs and economic returns. Growers rely on these resources to develop crop budgets,

State Recognized Programs

2016 State Programs 9

create long-term management plans, and make decisions about feasibility of organic production. Klonsky has had direct contact with her stakeholders, presenting her findings statewide and nationally (e.g. 2009-2012, 10,500+ audience members).

Team MembersDr. Klonsky led diverse teams of growers, CE specialists and farm advisors, including: Laura Tourte, Farm Management Advisor, Santa Cruz, Monterey, San Benito Counties Rhonda Smith, Farm Advisor, Sonoma County Gene Miyao, Farm Advisor, Yolo County Bruce Rominger, Grower, Winters, CA Cathy Calfo, Executive Director and CEO, California Certified Organic Farmers, Santa Cruz, CA Ann Thrupp, Director of the Berkeley Food Institute, Berkeley, CA Sonja Brodt, Academic Coordinator, Agricultural Sustainability Institute, UC Davis Kate Scow, professor in LAWR, UC Davis William Horwath, professor in LAWR, UC Davis Howard Ferris, professor in nematology, UC Davis Jeff Mitchell, CE Cropping Systems Specialist, Kearney Agricultural Research & Extension Center Frank Zalom, professor of entomology, UC Davis Steve Temple, CE Specialist in Agronomy, UC Davis



Stream Side Science Utah State University

Abstract: Stream Side Science is a successful Extension water quality program that provides unbiased, scientific and age-appropriate materials and activities to youth and educators. The program uses exploration and discovery through simple aquatic monitoring techniques. Our research demonstrates increase in knowledge and awareness in youth about water and watershed science and the impacts of pollutants on streams, lakes and other water bodies. The program has benefited from regular and significant feedback from partners and targeted audiences, with a particular emphasis on removing identified barriers to adoption. With a long record of documented impacts, the program continues to evolve into new areas, incorporating new technologies in its programming and reaching new audiences through an innovative mix of web-based and hands-on materials. Among other impacts, our studies suggest the program has resulted in increased knowledge and awareness in at least 128,000 students in Utah alone.

Team Members Current Program coordinators: Ellen Bailey, Eli Robinson Undergraduate educators/interns: Tim Beach, Jacob Stout, Arthur Wallis, Amy Reid USU faculty and other partners: David Francis, Mark Larese-Casanova, Nell Larson, Kimberly Lott, Andree’ Walker, USU Extension (County Agents, Education Centers, 4H Program) Past Program coordinators: Susan Anderson, Brian Greene, Laura Hines, Eric Peterson Graduate students: Nicol Gagstetter, John Geiger, Tiffany Kinder, Robes Parrish, Andree’ Walker Undergraduate interns/educators: Dan Bone, Hope Braithwaite, Nathan Clarke, Katie Fisher, Natalie Gibson, Mellisa Harvey, Hesper Kohler, Kyle Koyle, Kalyanaraman Krishnapillai, Krista Kuester, Ayush Nigam Christine Rumsey, John Saunderson, Adam Sigler, Eric Sodja, Sam Taylor, Uelun Tuvshinjargal, Audree Van Valkenburg, Valerie Were



European Grapevine Moth Eradiation TeamUniversity of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources

Abstract: In fall 2009, European grapevine moth (EGVM) was detected in grapes in Napa County. EGVM larvae bore holes into grapes damaging the fruit and allowing entry of fungal pathogens. In addition, EGVM presence in a region results in trade restrictions and economic loss. The Napa County detection was the first in the U.S., triggering state and federal regulatory actions. In 2010, more than 100,000 EGVM were trapped in Napa County and moths were trapped in 10 other California counties. Over the past six years, the EGVM Team addressed research and Extension needs of regulators and the grape industry. Currently, all previously infested counties have been deregulated save for one portion of Napa County and a border region of Sonoma County. The last EGVM trapped in Napa County was in 2013. If none are trapped in 2016, it will be declared eradicated from California. This will be an incredible victory, highlighting the benefits of UC ANR academics providing science-based information to regulatory agencies and the agricultural industry.

Team MembersWalter J. Bentley, IPM Entomology Advisor, EmeritusLarry J. Bettiga, Viticulture Farm Advisor, UCCE Monterey, San Benito and Santa

Cruz CountiesMonica L. Cooper, Viticulture Farm Advisor, UCCE Napa CountyKent M. Daane, Cooperative Extension Specialist, Dept. of Environmental Science

Policy and Management, UC BerkeleyRhonda J. Smith, Viticulture Farm Advisor, UCCE Sonoma CountyJoyce Fox Strand, Associate Director for Communications, Retired, UC Statewide

IPM ProgramRobert A. Van Steenwyk, CE Specialist and Entomologist, EmeritusLucia G. Varela, North Coast IPM Advisor, UCCE Lake, Napa, Mendocino, and

Sonoma CountiesFrank G. Zalom, Professor and Cooperative Extension Specialist, Department of

Entomology and Nematology, UC Davis



Farm-to-Table Food Safety Program: Strategic Use of Social Media to Connect Extension with Food System StakeholdersColorado State University

Abstract: An understanding of food safety risks and the best practices to prevent harm from unsafe food is necessary to ensure the safety of our food supply across the farm to table continuum. Food producers, consumers, and Extension professionals need current research-based information to address the variety of emerging food issues which impact public health. Centralizing food system information at a Land-grant university and delivering via social media networks is a proactive approach for improving food safety from production to consumption. Since website launch in 2011, the Colorado State University Farm-to-Table program, which includes website, Facebook, and Pinterest forums, has provided user-friendly platforms for the delivery of food safety information targeted to specific audiences and has helped raise awareness of related Extension resources. Monitoring web activity and providing technical training and support has helped to keep engagement rates high with over 670,000 total website and fact sheet views in 2015.

Team Members

CSU Campus, Fort Collins, CO: Marisa Bunning; Elisa Shackelton; Mary Schroeder; Laura Bauer; James Peth; Ruth Willson; Darrin Goodman; Joanne LittlefieldAnn Duncan, Tri River AreaSheila Gaines, Arapahoe CountyLois Illick, Pueblo CountyGisele Jefferson, Washington CountyKaren Massey, Routt CountyEdie McSherry, Larimer CountyVerla Noakes, Fremont CountyTerry Schaff, Archuleta CountyIrene Shonle, Gilpin CountyMary Snow, Jefferson CountyGlenda Wentworth, Eagle CountyAnne Zander, Boulder County



Montana Extension Powerful Tools for Caregivers ProgramMontana State University

Abstract: By 2025, Montana is projected to rank no less than fifth in the nation in the percent of those over the age of 65. This translates to 1 in 4 people in Montana being over the age of 65 by the year 2025 (Montana State Plan on Aging, 2011). Most will be living with a spouse/partner or alone rather than residing in a nursing home (Older Americans 2012). As a result, many with chronic health conditions will likely be cared for by a friend or loved one. Concurrently, Montana is losing population in the eastern half of the state. These demographics document the need for programs such as Powerful Tools for Caregivers (PTC). PTC is a six-week program with a structured curriculum to teach caregivers better self-care. Evaluation results find that participants make statistically significant gains in planning better self-care from pre-test to post-test. Anecdotal comments confirm the results.

Team Members *Master TrainerFamily and Consumer Science Extension Agents Jona McNamee* Cascade CountyWendy Wedum* Pondera CountyNori Pearce* Lake CountyDenise Seilstad* Fergus/Petroleum CountyJane Wolery Teton CountyJackie Rumph Yellowstone CountyKatrin Finch Hill CountyLisa Terry Stillwater CountyTara Andrews Custer CountyRoubie Younkin Valley CountyJennifer Anderson Rosebud/Treasure CountyLaurie Lautt Big Horn CountyMSU Campus teamDebbie Albin Administrative AssociateSandy Bailey* FCS Program Leader, Family & Human Dev. SpecialistLynn Paul* Extension Food and Nutrition Specialist



New Mexico State University Media Productions & Learning Games LabNew Mexico State University

Abstract: For more than 20 years, NMSU Media Productions has been at the forefront of a national technology shift in Extension educational and outreach programs, creating effective and innovative technologies for national, regional, and state Extension programs. Their video games, mobile apps, podcasts, streaming video, animations and online learning tools include diverse content, and reflect collaboration with teams in Extension around the U.S. The team has produced multimedia tools supporting food safety, nutrition, obesity prevention, STEM education, and agricultural outreach. Recent products for 4-H, youth and college audiences include a series of Virtual Labs (http://myfoodsciencelab.org), Math Snacks (http://mathsnacks.org), and Ninja Kitchen (http://ninjakitchengame.org). The team has produced mobile apps to help Extension and 4-H personnel work more efficiently, including the 4-H Livestock Record, SW Plant Selector, eJudging Pro, and the Eat & Move-o-Matic. Together, these resources have been used more than 6 million times since 2013.

Team members (all located at New Mexico State University)David Abraham, Software Developer, ProgrammerAdrian Aguirre, Media Specialist, Project ManagerEsther Aguirre, Fiscal AssistantStanley Carbine, Systems AnalystBarbara Chamberlin, Assistant Department HeadJohn Chamberlin, Program Manager: ProgrammingPatricia Clark, Admin AssistantMichael Ferrales, Media Specialist: VideoJeanne Gleason, Department HeadWendy Hamilton, ProfessorPamela Martinez, Program Manager: MultimediaGerritt Mc Gill, Artist & AnimatorPhilip Mc Vann, Graphic DesignerAmy Muise, EditorConnie Padilla, Program Manger: WebSeth Powers, Media Specialist: Project ManagerElizabeth Sohn, Project Manager, Graphic DesignerTomilee Turner, Program Manager: Video



OSU Juntos - Together for a Better EducationOregon State University

Abstract: Juntos is a youth and family empowerment program that provides students and their families with the knowledge and skills to be more successful in the K-12 system and, in turn, may be more likely to pursue higher education. While the program begins with 6-week curriculum—Juntos is not only about a set of workshops. The Juntos program aims to build a sense of community among the participants, to develop engaged families and schools, and to provide opportunities for youth leadership development.

Team MembersJeff Sherman, Program Leader, CorvallisAna Gomez, Statewide Coordinator, CorvallisDaniel Lopez-Cevallos, Juntos Evaluator, CorvallisMaydra Valencia, Coastal Coordinator, Tillamook CountyAnn Harris, Columbia Gorge Coordinator, Hood River and Wasco CountiesBrenda Gutierrez, Jefferson County Coordinator, Jefferson County, Warm Springs

Indian ReservationRuth Jones, Central Oregon Coordinator, Deschutes County



Washington Rural Pathways to Prosperity Conference Series: “Small Business is Everybody’s Business”Washington State University

Abstract: Washington State University’s Rural Pathways to Prosperity (P2P) is a statewide economic development leadership conference series that uses a unique hybrid delivery model to reach rural communities, revive the economy, and strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem. P2P uses technology to connect multiple sites simultaneously to provide an interactive webinar featuring a national expert. Well-designed and adaptable activities facilitated by local community leaders address issues and opportunities introduced by the speaker and regional participants. Small business owners and entrepreneurs also participate at local sites, allowing them to leverage the knowledge gained and apply it to their business goals and aspirations.

Team MembersMonica Babine, Senior Associate, Program for Digital Initiatives, Division of

Governmental Studies & ServicesCarrie Backman, County Director, WSU Wahkiakum County ExtensionGary Fredricks, County Director, WSU Cowlitz County ExtensionSheila Gray, County Director, WSU Lewis County ExtensionMark Heitstuman, County Director, Asotin/Garfield County ExtensionKrisan LeHew, Community Coach, Northeast WashingtonLaura Lewis, County Director, WSU Jefferson County ExtensionClea Rome, County Director, WSU Clallam County Extension Christina Sanders, Associate Director, Department of Governmental Studies and

ServicesJordan Tampien, Economic Development Specialist, StatewideMargaret Viebrock, County Director, WSU Chelan/Douglas County ExtensionLinda Williams, Community Coach, Columbia Gorge Region



What’s on Your Plate? Exploring Food ScienceWashington State University Extension

Abstract: According to the Institute of Food Technologists, there is a critical, global need for food science professionals in the coming decade. What’s on Your Plate: Exploring Food Science is the first comprehensive, peer-reviewed STEM food science curriculum and program for middle school youth in the U.S. It was developed to increase the number of youth envisioning and ultimately choosing careers in food science.What’s on Your Plate: Exploring Food Science covers basic elements of research-based food science in age-appropriate, entertaining ways. Using inquiry-based learning and experiential learning approaches, middle school youth apply STEM science in a kitchen setting using inexpensive, readily available materials and resources. Each of the twelve 75–90 minute interactive learning activities were developed using research-based principles of food science and national science standards.The curriculum includes Facilitator Guides, Youth Science Journals, and extensive on-line resources for use in a variety of settings.

Team MembersB. Susie Craig, Washington State University Extension, Professor, Area Specialist

Food Safety and Health, Sammamish, WA Gayle Alleman Povis, University of Arizona, Assistant Research Scientist, Tucson, AZSuzanne Ault Boarts, Pennsylvania State University Extension, 4-H Youth

Development Coordinator, Kittanning, PA


The Rangelands PartnershipThe University of Arizona

Abstract: Rangelands are the dominant ecosystem in more than half of the Western United States. They provide essential functions and benefits to people everywhere including: CO2 compensation for clean air, forage and food production, water recharge, wildlife habitat, and open space and recreation. Yet, many forces threaten the productivity and ecological integrity of these lands and the human communities that rely on them. Cooperative Extension personnel and natural resource advisors are challenged to provide land managers and users of rangelands with the information and tools needed to restore, maintain, manage, and make informed decisions about these landscapes. To address this problem, The Rangelands Partnership, a collaboration of Cooperative Extension personnel, rangeland scientists, librarians, and IT specialists from 19 western land-grant institutions, has created a suite of open access, mobile-friendly Web resources covering all aspects of rangeland stewardship and health, as well as an active social media outreach program.

Team MembersGeorge Ruyle, Marley Endowed Chair for Rangeland Stewardship and Extension

Specialist, School of Natural Resources & the Environment, CALS, University of Arizona

John Tanaka, Associate Director, Wyoming Agricultural Experiment Station and Director, James C. Hageman Research and Extension Center, University of Wyoming (WERA 1008 Administrative Advisor)

Beth Burritt, Extension Associate Professor, Area Rangeland Specialist, Utah State University (2015-16 Chair, Rangelands Partnership)

Nicole Juve, Agricultural Sciences Librarian, North Dakota State University (2015-16 Vice-Chair, Rangelands Partnership)

Lovina Englund, Rangelands Center Outreach Coordinator, University of Idaho (2015-16 Secretary-Treasurer, Rangelands Partnership)

Barbara Hutchinson, Coordinator, Arizona Technical Team, University of Arizona


Experiential History Education: 4-H Western Heritage ProjectMontana State University Extension

Abstract: The 4-H Western Heritage Project is a participatory living history program for youth ages 9-19 who experience the history of the American frontier period through hands-on learning. While a majority of students express a lack of interest in history, Participatory Living History (PLH) teaching methodologies show a positive change in youth perspectives and increase interest in history education. A 2010 national educational assessment found 88 percent of America’s high school seniors deficient in U.S. History knowledge. A strong foundation in American history improves the ability of young people to understand culture and society while contributing to an informed citizenry. By incorporating informal, active learning, the 4-H Western Heritage program addresses traditional deficiencies in history education. Participants utilize role-playing, games, self-directed learning, group projects, historical persona development, and support from enthusiastic leaders to learn all about the American Frontier from 1860-1900, including its successes and failures, and racial and social issues.

Team MembersTodd Kesner, Director of the Montana 4-H Center for Youth DevelopmentWill Abbot, 4-H Volunteer, National Park Service Living Historian, and

PhotographerKatelyn Andersen, Ravalli County MSU Extension Agent

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Montana State University and Montana State University Extension prohibit discrimination in all of their programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, and marital and family status. Issued in furtherance of cooperative extension work in agriculture and home economics, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Jeff Bader, Director of Extension, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717

Western Region Joint Summer Meeting hosted by: Montana State University College of Agriculture, Montana Agriculture Experiment Station, and Montana State University Extension

on the edge of the super caldera - oregon state university...james j. pestka - michigan state...

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