Vegetable Variety Trials
Alaska’s climate is changing and growing seasons have lengthened in many areas of
Alaska. It may be possible to grow different vegetable varieties than have grown here
previously. Plant breeders also develop new varieties and update older varieties.
Continued trials in different locations are important to determine what will grow
best where, so the information can be shared with gardeners and farmers, strengthening
Alaska's food security. Read more
Grain Varieties and Cultivation Methods
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many Alaskans faced food security issues stemming from
the state's dependence on out-of-state food suppliers. Shipments from Outside were
limited and in-state suppliers could not meet public demand for agronomic crops. Read more
Delivering Food Donations and Nutrition Information in a Pandemic
The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that one in seven Alaskans struggles
with hunger and good security issues. During the COVID-19 pandemic, unemployment rates
increased, putting greater strain on food resources throughout the state, including
the MatSu area. Read more
Master Gardener Class Comes To Sitka
The agriculture and horticulture Extension agent based in Sitka retired in 2013 and
the office was reorganized as an outreach center without an agent. Research-based
gardening education in the community was piecemeal and infrequent, despite high interest
in the topic. Read more
Getting Creative During the Pandemic
The Matanuska Experiment Farm and Extension Center closed its doors to the public
in March due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Extension specializes in hands-on public
outreach, so this created a significant barrier. Read more
MAPTS Mine Training for Rural Residents
Alaska's rural regions are mineral-rich and home to several production mines that
employ thousands of people in well-paying jobs. Too often, the people living in or
near these mines have not benefited from their stable and long-term employment. Read more