Extension in West Otter Tail County

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

• Join 4-H for the first time or re-enroll
• Request a Paper Enrollment Form
• Volunteer renewal
• Enroll as an independent member
• See the 4-H clubs in your area

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!

Sarah Downhour, Extension educator, 4-H Youth Development
sarahu@umn.edu or 218-385-5421

Jessica Mohagen,  Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
mohag150@umn.edu or 218-998-8766

Leah Maertens, Office Manager and Master Gardener Coordinator
frei0115@umn.edu or 218-998-8761

Gifts support 4-H youth development in West Otter Tail County and local programming coordinated by the West Otter Tail County 4-H Council. 

Give today

Become a West Otter Tail County Master Gardener

• Learn about the Master Gardener Program

Stay Connected

• Like and follow us on Facebook

Other Opportunities in Minnesota

• Master Naturalist volunteers work in your community

Leah Maertens, Master Gardener Coordinator
frei0115@umn.edu or 218-998-8760

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

Jackie Larson, SNAP-Ed educator
larsonjb@umn.edu or 218-998-8763

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)
• 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.

UMN Extension, West Otter Tail County
505 South Court Street Suite 3
Fergus Falls, MN 56537

Phone: 218-998-8760
mnext-westottertail@umn.edu

View all West Otter Tail County contacts.

Sarah Downhour, Extension educator, 4-H Youth Development
sarahu@umn.edu or 218-385-5421

Jessica Mohagen, Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
mohag150@umn.edu or 218-998-8766

Leah Maertens, Office Manager and Master Gardener Coordinator
frei0115@umn.edu or 218-998-8761

Jackie Larson, SNAP-Ed Educator
larsonjb@umn.edu or 218-998-8763

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.