Extension in Anoka County

• Enrollment Information for the 2022-2023 4-H Year!

4-H Clover Dash will be on Saturday, April 29, 2023. Walk or run to support this fundraiser for Anoka County 4-H! Funds will support healthy living programs, community service projects and scholarships for youth. 

Details and registration information. 

If you are unable to participate but still want to support this Anoka County 4-H fundraiser, donations can be made online to the Anoka County 4-H Program Fund. Please select "Add Special Instructions" and write "4-H Clover Dash" before submitting.

We are looking forward to a summer of celebrating 4-H project learning!  Learn more about participating in the County Fair including the 2023 premium book, showcase schedule, county fair registration materials & volunteer sign ups.  Also explore support information for participating in County Arts In, Public Presentation Day, Fashion Revue, Dog, Horse, Rabbit and more.

4-H Youth Development is a hands-on learning program for Minnesota youth. We offer online, small group and independent learning experiences for youth of all ages. In 4-H, youth choose the topic they find interesting and caring adults support their learning and leadership. From agronomy to space exploration and creative arts to outdoor adventures, 4-H has just the right learning experience for young people.

There are many ways to participate in 4-H!

There are also many ways adults (anyone age 18+) can support youth learning and leading in 4-H. 

• Want to learn about volunteering with the 4-H Youth Development Program?
  • Visit the Volunteering with 4-H page to learn more about how volunteers positively impact youth and community
  • Contact your 4-H Extension Educator to learn about specific roles available in your community
• Ready to become a screened Minnesota 4-H volunteer?
  • Visit the Apply to become a 4-H volunteer page to begin the application and screening process

Gifts support 4-H youth development in Anoka County, and local programming coordinated by the Anoka County 4-H Council. 

Give today

Anna Gilbertson, Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
annag@umn.edu or 763-324-3497

Sarah Devine, Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
komp0030@umn.edu or 763-324-3493

Kim Ferguson, Administrative Services Assistant
fergu029@umn.edu or 763-324-3499

Natalie Peterson, Administrative Services Assistant, Anoka County
pet01577@umn.edu

Visit Anoka County 4-H on social media:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube

• Visit the Anoka County Master Gardeners website for gardening information along with a complete list of upcoming events.
• Follow Anoka County Master Gardeners on Facebook.

• Become a Master Gardener volunteer
• Master Naturalist volunteers work in your community

Lia Spaniolo, Master Gardener Program Coordinator
spaniolo@umn.edu or 763-324-3498

Kim Ferguson, Administrative Services Assistant
fergu029@umn.edu or 763-324-3499

Natalie Peterson, Administrative Services Assistant, Anoka County
pet01577@umn.edu

Sarah Devine, Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
komp0030@umn.edu or 763-324-3493

Kim Ferguson, Administrative Services Assistant
fergu029@umn.edu or 763-324-3499

Anna Gilbertson, Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
annag@umn.edu or 763-324-3497

Natalie Peterson, Administrative Services Assistant, Anoka County
pet01577@umn.edu

Lia Spaniolo, Master Gardener Program Coordinator
spaniolo@umn.edu or 763-324-3498

Extension brings Minnesotans together to build a better future through University science-based knowledge, expertise and training. Learn more about Extension by visiting our about page and by browsing this website. 

Extension offers a variety of educational programs about nutrition and health in Anoka County. These programs are open to families and individuals of all ages who are eligible for benefits through the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or who meet Extension’s program income guidelines.

Programs are offered in community settings such as food shelves, schools, community centers and public housing sites. The programs are free to all individuals and families who meet income guidelines, and may be offered in multiple languages, depending on the audience needs and availability of educators.

Use the Real Life, Good Food website to find recipes, cooking tips and physical activity ideas for a healthier life.

Minnesota is a great place to explore, understand and conserve the natural landscape. Extension education, volunteer and community science programs encourage people to become stewards of Minnesota’s public and private lands.

Volunteer. Natural resources volunteers track invasive species, detect forest pests and count native bees, among many other activities. You can also study to become a Minnesota Master Naturalist.

Extension's Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships (RSDP) connect Greater Minnesota communities and University of Minnesota knowledge and resources to support local sustainability projects. Working in partnership, RSDP supports community-driven projects in four focus areas: agriculture and food systems, clean energy, natural resources and resilient communities. Projects are supported by boards made up of local community members and University faculty and staff. Learn more about RSDP’s recent work neighboring communities and how to submit a project idea.