UD Extension

Extending Knowledge through @Delaware4H, horticulture, agriculture & health well-being. #UDExt
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

[UD Extension @UDExtension]

Confident Conversations: Useful Tools To Address Farmer Stress And Difficult Topics

Are you a service provider or agricultural professional working with producers under high stress? It can be difficult to navigate tough topics or know how to support someone facing burnout.

University of Delaware Cooperative Extension is proud to present Confident Conversations, a 4-part training series designed to increase your capacity to address mental health and build resilience in your community. This series provides research-based communication strategies specifically modeled for the unique needs of the farming, fishing, and logging industries.

Participants will gain:
✅ Skills in effective communication and appreciative inquiry.
✅ Greater knowledge of mental health resources and stigma reduction.
✅ Access to the full "Confident Conversations" curriculum.

📅 Dates: Thursdays (May 28, June 4, June 11, June 18)
⏰ Time: 12:30 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. EST
📍 Location: Online via Webinar

🔗 Secure your spot: https://t.co/frqa7JIOlG

Funding provided by Cultivemos and the NIFA/USDA Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network.

[UD Extension @UDExtension]

UD experts help farmers navigate a complex global market for agriculture
As planting season begins for Delaware’s farmers, they face a myriad of risks, natural and human-made hurdles, which make their livelihoods uncertain. Imagine going to work faithfully and not knowing whether you will get paid for your effort. Well, that is what American farmers face every day. Read more on UDaily:

https://t.co/sfEDvcAz7x

[UD Extension @UDExtension]

Rising fertilizer costs are threatening Delmarva farmers’ ability to turn a profit. Via @CoastTVNews. https://t.co/SJLPWHa4A5 #UDel

[UD Extension @UDExtension]

🛡️ Get Certified: ServSafe Food Protection Manager Training
Are you a food service professional or quantity food preparer? Ensure your team and customers stay safe by earning or renewing your ServSafe certification!

When: April 21, 2026
Location: New Castle County Extension Office: 461 Wyoming Road, Newark, DE 19711

Full Certification: $175 (Includes textbook, exam, full-day class, and lunch).
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Recertification: $85 (Includes exam only).
Time: 3:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

📝 Advance registration is required. Registration closes 3 weeks prior to the class date—don't wait!
Learn More: https://t.co/125GNon9RC

📧 Questions? Contact Diane Oliver at [email protected] or call 302-831-1327

[UD Extension @UDExtension]

Watch and read about “Dining with Diabetes” a @udextension program that helps people learn how to manage their diabetes through meal prep, food selection, and more. Story from @coasttvnews https://t.co/BgJKwTDhBw #UDel

[UD Extension @UDExtension]

🌾 Attention Delaware Grain Producers!

Join UD Cooperative Extension for the next Delaware Grain Marketing Club meeting on March 26th in Dover. Stay ahead of the curve with expert insights on market trends and federal program updates.

The Lineup:
-Grain Market Update: Bill & Jarrett Hostetter (Hostetter Grain)
-USDA Farm Services Agency Updates: Maryann Reed (FSA Deputy State Executive Director)

The Details:
📍 Where: UD Paradee Center, 69 Transportation Circle, Dover, DE
⏰ When: March 26th | Doors open at 6:00 p.m.
🍴 Bonus: Light dinner and refreshments provided!

Registration: The event is FREE, but an RSVP is required.
🔗 Find more details here: https://t.co/Hd8r15STve
📧 To RSVP: Contact Karen Adams at [email protected] or 302-831-3328.

[UD Extension @UDExtension]

Protecting our pollinators while keeping Delaware’s crape myrtles beautiful! 🌸

Crape Myrtle Bark Scale (CMBS) is an invasive pest that can ruin the look of your landscape. While neonicotinoids are effective treatments, they can pose risks to our essential pollinators.

Our latest research, led by Brian Kunkel, Ornamentals IPM Specialist, is changing the game. By tracking the exact timing of "crawler" activity—the pest's most vulnerable stage—we’ve found that Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs) can do the job effectively with a much lower impact on non-target insects.

The Impact:
✅ Precision Timing: Research shows peak crawler activity occurs around June 4 and August 10 in our region.
✅ Better Choices: 40% of surveyed pros have switched to pollinator-friendly IGRs thanks to this data.
✅ Cost Savings: One local contractor helped a client save their entire landscape from being torn out!

Learn more about "Protecting Plants and Pollinators through Crape Myrtle Bark Scale Research and Extension" here: https://t.co/wDXQuSSlar

[UD Extension @UDExtension]

🏡Visit the Delaware Master Gardeners at the Delaware Home Owners Expo, this Saturday and Sunday March 14-15, 2026 from 8 a.m. -8 p.m. at the Chase Center on the Riverfront. Bring all your gardening questions!
🌱 For more info visit: https://t.co/DduqExOH33

[UD Extension @UDExtension]

Navigating H2A Farm Labor: Free Virtual Seminar Series 🚜

Are you looking to better understand the H2A process? The University of Delaware and University of Maryland Cooperative Extensions are teaming up to host a three-part virtual series designed to help Mid-Atlantic producers manage farm labor risks.

Join us for these expert-led sessions:

📅 March 31 | 12:00 p.m. : Real Cost of H-2A Workers – Nate Bruce (UD)

📅 April 7 | 12:00 p.m. : Legal Aspects of the H-2A Process – Brandon Davis (Phelps Dunbar LLP) & Paul Goeringer (UMD)

📅 April 21 | 12:00 p.m. : State Dept. of Labor Considerations – Norton Pereira (MD DOL) & Ellen Romero (DE DOL)

💰 Cost: Free of charge
📍 Virtual via Zoom
🔗 Register Here: https://t.co/1WFak6eO48

This work is supported by the Northeast Extension Risk Management project and the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

[UD Extension @UDExtension]

🛡️ Get Certified: ServSafe Food Protection Manager Training
Are you a food service professional or quantity food preparer? Ensure your team and customers stay safe by earning or renewing your ServSafe certification!

When: April 21, 2026
Location: New Castle County Extension Office: 461 Wyoming Road, Newark, DE 19711

Full Certification: $175 (Includes textbook, exam, full-day class, and lunch).
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Recertification: $85 (Includes exam only).
Time: 3:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

📝 Advance registration is required. Registration closes 3 weeks prior to the class date—don't wait!
Learn More: https://t.co/125GNon9RC

📧 Questions? Contact Diane Oliver at [email protected] or call 302-831-1327

[UD Extension @UDExtension]

🌾 Attention Delaware Grain Producers!

Join UD Cooperative Extension for the next Delaware Grain Marketing Club meeting on March 26th in Dover. Stay ahead of the curve with expert insights on market trends and federal program updates.

The Lineup:
-Grain Market Update: Bill & Jarrett Hostetter (Hostetter Grain)
-USDA Farm Services Agency Updates: Maryann Reed (FSA Deputy State Executive Director)

The Details:
📍 Where: UD Paradee Center, 69 Transportation Circle, Dover, DE
⏰ When: March 26th | Doors open at 6:00 p.m.
🍴 Bonus: Light dinner and refreshments provided!

Registration: The event is FREE, but an RSVP is required.
🔗 Find more details here: https://t.co/Hd8r15STve
📧 To RSVP: Contact Karen Adams at [email protected] or 302-831-3328.

[UD Extension @UDExtension]

🥗Dining with Diabetes - New Castle County

Take the Stress Out of Your Diabetes Meal Plan!
Managing diabetes starts with what’s on your plate, but we know that’s often the hardest part. Join the UD Cooperative Extension for Dining with Diabetes, a 5-session program designed to help you reduce sugar, salt, and fat without sacrificing flavor!

Class 1: Mealtime Essentials
Class 2: Desserts (Yes, even desserts!) 🍰
Class 3: Main Dishes
Class 4: Side Dishes
Class 5: Seasonal Reunion

Learn more: https://t.co/2GDMYX6RNV

📅 When: Tuesdays, May 5, 12, 19, & 26 (6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.) Reunion: August 25, 2026
📍 Where: New Castle County Extension Office: 461 Wyoming Rd, Newark, DE 19716
👥 Who: Anyone! People with diabetes, family members, and caregivers are all welcome.

✨ Special Funding: Residents of Greater Milford can enroll for FREE thanks to the Greater Milford Lions Club! Participants in the State of Delaware Diabetes Self-Management Education Program or Bayhealth Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support Program can submit their voucher for free enrollment. Please include your voucher with registration.

🔗 Register Here: https://t.co/gb018soZAb

Questions? Contact Kimberly Moore at 302-730-4000 or [email protected]

[UD Extension @UDExtension]

🛡️ Get Certified: ServSafe Food Protection Manager Training
Are you a food service professional or quantity food preparer? Ensure your team and customers stay safe by earning or renewing your ServSafe certification!

When: April 21, 2026
Location: New Castle County Extension Office: 461 Wyoming Road, Newark, DE 19711

Full Certification: $175 (Includes textbook, exam, full-day class, and lunch).
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Recertification: $85 (Includes exam only).
Time: 3:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

📝 Advance registration is required. Registration closes 3 weeks prior to the class date—don't wait!
Learn More: https://t.co/125GNon9RC

📧 Questions? Contact Diane Oliver at [email protected] or call 302-831-1327

[UD Extension @UDExtension]

Spring 2026 Delaware Compost Bin & Rain Barrel Sale!
https://t.co/0fIJeZJgaF

BrandBuilders has been contracted by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) to offer a Spring 2026 Compost Bin and Rain Barrel Sale.
Please explore the site using the provided link to see what is being offered at this sale.

Orders must be placed by April 16th and picked up on April 18th. See the link for pick-up locations and times, and to view all products. https://t.co/0fIJeZJgaF

[UD Extension @UDExtension]

🚜 Join Us for the 4th Annual Risk Management Conference 2026! 🌾

📅 Date: February 25, 2026
🕗 Time: 8 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.
📍 Location: Harrington Fire Hall, 20 Clark St., Harrington, DE 19950

This event, organized by Delaware Cooperative Extension and Delaware Farm Bureau, is your chance to learn about vital risk management strategies to enhance your agricultural practices. Enjoy a day filled with informative sessions, expert speakers, and networking opportunities—all for FREE!
Lunch and refreshments provided.

📝 RSVP Required!
For questions about the conference, contact Nathaniel Bruce at [email protected] or [phone].
For registration inquiries, reach out to Mikayla Paul at [email protected] or [phone].

Agenda Highlights:

8:15 a.m. Conference Opening: Don Clifton & Bill Powers
Workshops on:
2026 Budgets
Economics of Ag Technology
Crop Insurance Options
Grain Market Outlook
Agricultural Chemicals Economics
Retirement Options for Farmers
And more!
Don't miss this opportunity to equip yourself with essential knowledge and tools for success in agriculture.

Learn more here:
https://t.co/IgauMmcqvs

[UD Extension @UDExtension]

Is your Maple tree showing its "scars"? 🍁

If you’ve noticed vertical cracks on the south side of your trees lately, you’re likely looking at Frost Cracking.

The Science: During winter, the sun warms the bark during the day, but temperatures plummet at night. This rapid freezing and thawing causes the bark to split—especially on thin-barked trees like Maples and Cherries.

The "Do's and Don'ts" for Recovery:

🚫 Don't paint or cover the wound. The tree needs to breathe!
✅ Do let it heal naturally. Watch for a "callus" (thickened bark) forming around the split.
👀 Keep watch: Keep an eye out for any hitchhiking insects or signs of disease in the opening.
💧 Summer Care: If things get dry this summer, give your tree a deep soak once a week.

Pro Tip: Avoid fertilizing in late fall! New growth is tender and much more likely to split when the frost hits.

Information and photo by Nancy Gregory

[UD Extension @UDExtension]

🥗Dining with Diabetes - Kent County

Take the Stress Out of Your Diabetes Meal Plan!
Managing diabetes starts with what’s on your plate, but we know that’s often the hardest part. Join the UD Cooperative Extension for Dining with Diabetes, a 5-session program designed to help you reduce sugar, salt, and fat without sacrificing flavor!

Class 1: Mealtime Essentials
Class 2: Desserts (Yes, even desserts!) 🍰
Class 3: Main Dishes
Class 4: Side Dishes
Class 5: Seasonal Reunion

Learn more: https://t.co/nHbjW29uIX

📅 When: Wednesdays, April 1, 8, 15, & 22 (6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.) Reunion: July 15, 2026
📍 Where: The Kent County Extension Office: 69 Transportation Circle, Dover, DE 19901
👥 Who: Anyone! People with diabetes, family members, and caregivers are all welcome.

✨ Special Funding: Residents of Greater Milford can enroll for FREE thanks to the Greater Milford Lions Club! Participants in the State of Delaware Diabetes Self-Management Education Program or Bayhealth Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support Program can submit their voucher for free enrollment. Please include your voucher with registration.

🔗 Register Here: https://t.co/gb018soZAb

Questions? Contact Kimberly Moore at 302-730-4000 or [email protected].

[UD Extension @UDExtension]

🛡️ Get Certified: ServSafe Food Protection Manager Training
Ensure your team and customers stay safe by earning or renewing your ServSafe certification!

When: April 21, 2026
Location: New Castle County Extension Office: 461 Wyoming Road, Newark, DE 19711

Full Certification: $175 (Includes textbook, exam, full-day class, and lunch).
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Recertification: $85 (Includes exam only).
Time: 3:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

📝 Advance registration is required. Registration closes 3 weeks prior to the class date—don't wait!
Learn More: https://t.co/125GNon9RC

📧 Questions? Contact Diane Oliver at [email protected] or call 302-831-1327.

[UD Extension @UDExtension]

To Pre-K–2nd Educators:
🌱 Sussex County Master Gardeners Have a FREE Learning Opportunity for Your Pre-K–2nd Grade Class! 🌟

Bring hands-on agriculture, science, and nutrition learning right to your school with “The Misadventures of Peter Rabbit in Farmer McGregor’s Garden,” an award-winning, interactive puppet show delivered at no cost through a USDA Specialty Crop Grant. This beloved program has reached more than 25,000 students over the last decade—and now it can be part of your classroom experience!

🐰 During this 35-minute show, students explore botany, agriculture, food culture, nutrition, and entomology, all aligned with Delaware’s Next Generation Science Standards (K–2). They’ll meet butterflies, bugs, a mischievous rat, Farmer McGregor, and of course, Peter Rabbit—all while learning in a fun, memorable way!

🎥 See the magic in action: https://t.co/DGfpsmoBBh

📅 Available September 8, 2025 – June 15, 2026
Shows are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. Access to electricity is required, and setup for the first show takes about an hour. Each performance is staffed by 7–9 Cooperative Extension/Master Gardener volunteers. Teacher feedback surveys will help us measure program impact for grant reporting.

🔗 View available dates: https://t.co/JX6rIB1BpE
📞 Contact: Kaleb Scott at 302-831-3350 or [email protected]

Give your students an unforgettable experience that brings science and agriculture to life! 🌿✨

[UD Extension @UDExtension]

🚜 Join Us for the 4th Annual Risk Management Conference 2026! 🌾

📅 Date: February 25, 2026
🕗 Time: 8 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.
📍 Location: Harrington Fire Hall, 20 Clark St., Harrington, DE 19950

This event, organized by Delaware Cooperative Extension and Delaware Farm Bureau, is your chance to learn about vital risk management strategies to enhance your agricultural practices. Enjoy a day filled with informative sessions, expert speakers, and networking opportunities—all for FREE!
Lunch and refreshments provided.

📝 RSVP Required!
For questions about the conference, contact Nathaniel Bruce at [email protected] or [phone].
For registration inquiries, reach out to Mikayla Paul at [email protected] or [phone].

Agenda Highlights:

8:15 a.m. Conference Opening: Don Clifton & Bill Powers
Workshops on:
2026 Budgets
Economics of Ag Technology
Crop Insurance Options
Grain Market Outlook
Agricultural Chemicals Economics
Retirement Options for Farmers
And more!
Don't miss this opportunity to equip yourself with essential knowledge and tools for success in agriculture.

Learn more here:
https://t.co/IgauMmcqvs