Who we Are
Extension connects communities. From partnerships to programs, Extension in every county is for everyday Iowans to better themselves, their home, their business, and their community. Found in Chapter 176A, it is a means to provide taxpayers “useful and practical information” giving every Iowan access to education and services regardless of rural or urban status.
The Iowa Extension Council Association represents county extension councils in all Iowa counties. Every council manages the county agricultural extension levy that funds local programming. The county agricultural extension levy is tiered by population and capped by both rate and total dollar amount with growth limited from year to year as prescribed in Iowa Code. County Extension is not funded by Iowa State University. Extension councils across Iowa are concerned about the impact of property tax reform when Extension collects just 0.4% of property taxes statewide.
Iowa Property Tax by Taxing Authority
County Agricultural Extension is a very small but important slice of the pie.
4-H Youth Development
The flagship Iowa 4-H program engages young Iowans in hands-on learning, leadership skills, and STEM education, preparing the next generation of leaders for the workforce. County Extension delivers 4-H at the local level. Counties partner with Iowa State University, key in the delivery of all Extension program, because counties do not have the resources to do it all themselves. Over 123,000 Iowa youth participate in 4-H programs. 4-H empowers youth to be outstanding communicators, effective leaders, and successful learners. Clover Kids is a 4-H program to foster the cognitive, social, and physical development of K-3 youth.
Fairs
County fairs and the Iowa State Fair are economic drivers for the state of Iowa and 4-H is at the center of them all. The exhibits displayed at fairs highlight the educational and personal achievements of Iowa 4-H youth. County fairs provide opportunities for youth-adult mentorship, hands-on learning, and for communities to gather.
Agriculture and Natural Resources
Extension helps farmers and landowners boost productivity and profitability through science-backed, locally delivered solutions that keep Iowa’s economy growing. Cutting-edge research and practical expertise help farmers big and small to manage livestock, increase yield, adopt sustainable practices, and address challenges like weather variability, disease, pests, and markets.
Disaster Response
When disaster strikes, County Extension collaborates with local officials and organizations to meet immediate needs, while delivering education for recovery. For example, after the 2024 Greenfield tornado and flooding in northwest Iowa, county Extension staff offered 50 day camps, providing a safe space for youth to process their experiences and create resiliency through social connections. Extension staff hosted multi-agency resource centers to make sure residents had access to vital resources like legal advice and mental health support after the floods. After floods in Monona County, Extension staff helped crop producers and feedlot operators examine their options for recovery. Extension offers resources for Iowans when they need it most.
Community Insights Portal
The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Community Insights portal provides data and information for decision makers at the local, regional, and state levels.
The Insights Library includes brief reports presenting a profile and snapshot of a city’s, county’s, or region’s demographic, economic, social, health, or housing characteristics. Using the filter options on the left-hand side of the page, you can find customized reports by Iowa Senate and House Districts.