RECENT PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
4‑H Youth Development
4-H at Super Fair
The 2026 Lancaster County Super Fair was held July 30–Aug. 8 at the Sandhills Global Event Center. 4-H & FFA were a big part of the first weekend of the fair, giving youth an opportunity to showcase projects they’ve worked on throughout the year! At this year’s Super Fair, 577 4-H & FFA exhibitors entered 4,804 exhibits (including static exhibits, Clover Kids, animals and contest entries).
Yard & Garden
Nebraska Master Gardener Volunteer Program: 50 Years of Growing
Extension Master Gardeners are volunteers trained through University Extension programs across the U.S., to provide research-based horticultural information to the public. Nebraska Extension organized their own Extension Master Gardener Volunteer program in 1976.
Health & Wellbeing
Growing Together Garden at ConnectioN Point
Three new raised garden beds were recently installed at ConnectioN Point, bringing the total to eight thriving beds dedicated to growing fresh produce for the Open Shelf Pantry.
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FEATURED TOPICS
Mosquitoes: A Bad Summer Buzz
Extension Educator Kait Chapman's tips to protect you and your family from mosquitoes: Apply an EPA-registered insect repellent when spending time outdoors. Wear long sleeves and pants, when possible, especially at dawn and dusk. Eliminate standing water around your home where mosquitoes can breed.
How to Overseed for a Healthy Lawn
Extension Educator Rachel Anderson's latest horticulture column in the Lincoln Journal Star is "Now is the time to plan fall lawn seeding in eastern Nebraska."
August/September Recipes of the Month — Mini Quiche Cups & Apple Energy Bites
Looking for quick and nutritious meal and snack ideas for the busy school year? Try these family friendly recipes to help make healthy eating easier.
Heart of 4-H Award Winner — Tony Isabell
He has volunteered with 4‑H shooting sports for 15 years and is a certified shotgun instructor. Tony is head coach of the Raymond Central Youth Trap Club and he helps at the annual 4‑H Shooting Sports National Championships in Grand Island. He previously volunteered with the North Star Trap club.
Spotlight on a Master Gardener — Paula Luther
Paula Luther has been an Extension Master Gardener Volunteer (EMGV) for 15 years and has volunteered over 600 hours. Paula has mentored new volunteers, answered hundreds of phone questions and served as a 4‑H judge at the Lancaster County Super Fair.
Nutrition Education Program
Meet One of Your Local Extension Experts
Darby Walsh, Extension Assistant
Darby joined Nebraska Extension in Lancaster County in December 2025. She holds a bachelor's degree in biology, with minors in Chemistry and Nutrition, from Midland University. Through the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP), she provides nutrition education for youth in Lancaster County. Darby enjoys empowering young community members to make healthy choices that support lifelong well-being.
