Extension in Crow Wing County

There are several ways to join or re-enroll in 4-H.

• Join 4-H for the first time or re-enroll
• Enroll as an independent member
• Reach out to us to help you decide and answer your questions.

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!

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

There are many areas to donate to 4-H including 4-H General Fund; 4-H Youth Leadership Program Fund; 4-H Project Areas; 4-H State Fair Building Improvement Project Fund; 4-H Scholarships and Awards; and Urban 4-H Program Fund.

Give today

Please reach out to us with any questions on 4-H and how we can help you!

Cassie Girling, 4-H Youth Extension Educator
cgirling@umn.edu or 218-824-1069

Tracy Giza, Administration
tgiza@umn.edu or 218-824-1065

Master Gardener volunteers are University of Minnesota-trained volunteers who educate the public about a variety of horticulture subjects using readily available, up-to-date research-based information. This educational effort is designed to enhance the public’s quality of life and to promote good stewardship of the environment.

Master Gardener volunteers complete many hours of volunteer work each year, providing a valuable in-kind contribution. These dollar figures quantify the enormous value that our volunteers provide to Minnesota.

In 2019 Crow Wing County Master Gardeners volunteered a total of 4,486 hours, at $29.44 a volunteer hour, contributed a value of $132,067 to the County.

Contact Brittany Goerges, Master Gardener Volunteer Coordinator, for more information.

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

Brittany Goerges, Master Gardener Volunteer Coordinator
goerg039@umn.edu or 218-824-1068

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

Carolyn McQueen, Extension educator, Health & Nutrition
cmcqueen@umn.edu or 218-824-1349

Extension's Center for Community Vitality 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).

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.

U of M Extension, Crow Wing County
326 Laurel Street, Suite 11
Brainerd, MN 56401

Phone: 218-824-1065
mnext-crowwing@umn.edu

Office Hours: Monday thru Friday, 12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

View all Crow Wing County contacts.

Cassie Girling, 4-H Youth Extension Educator 
cgirling@umn.edu or 218-824-1069

Carolyn McQueen, Extension educator, Health & Nutrition
cmcqueen@umn.edu or 218-824-1349

Brittany Goerges, Master Gardener Volunteer Coordinator
goerg039@umn.edu or 218-824-1068

Tracy Giza, Administration
tgiza@umn.edu or 218-824-1065

Susanne Hinrichs, Regional Director Northeast Region
susanneh@umn.edu or 218-828-2286

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.