Extension in Becker County

U of M Extension, Becker County
1120 8th St. SE
Detroit Lakes MN 56501-2702

218-846-7328
mnext-becker@umn.edu

Office hours

Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Elliott Lawrence, Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development

218-846-7328 (Ext 3) or lawre735@umn.edu

Linda Perrine, Extension Office Manager & Master Gardener Coordinator

218-846-7328 (Ext 1)  or perri015@umn.edu

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. 

• How to enroll in Becker County 4-H
• 4-H Online 2.0 enrollment guide for families

Click here to view past and present newsletters

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!
• Becker County 4-H Story Map
• Have questions? Read our Becker County 4-H FAQs or contact us!

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 the 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 Becker County, and local programming coordinated by the Becker County 4-H Council. 

Give today

Elliott Lawrence, Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development

218-846-7328 (Ext 7103) or lawre735@umn.edu

Linda Perrine, Extension Office Manager and Master Gardener Coordinator

218-846-7328 (7101)  or perri015@umn.edu

Visit the Becker County's Master Gardener page on Facebook

Gifts support local programming coordinated by Becker County Master Gardener volunteers.

Make a gift on the University of Minnesota giving page.

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

Extension offers a variety of educational programs about nutrition and health in Becker 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.

Extension engages Minnesotans to strengthen the social, civic, economic and technological capacity of their communities. We help create vibrant communities and enhance skills and knowledge in economics, leadership and civic engagement, and tourism.

Check our community research page for reports on county and community-focused topics relating to local economics, retaining businesses, growing retail markets, developing tourism, and more.

Local programs can be offered in collaboration with local community organizations and government agencies. Current programs include:

• Minnesota Agricultural and Rural Leadership (MARL)
• Red River Valley Emerging Leadership Program (ELP)

Contact an educator in your area for consultation, guidance and conversation about your community.

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 in your county and neighboring communities, and how to submit a project idea.