What Is CSU Extension at Colorado State University?

Updated

CSU Extension is Colorado State University's outreach arm that connects Coloradans to research-based solutions, education, and programming. It is part of CSU's Office of Engagement and Extension and carries out the university's land-grant mission by making CSU's educational resources accessible to all. If you live in Colorado and want practical, university-backed guidance on topics like gardening, farming, nutrition, or natural resources, this is the site to start with.

What CSU Extension actually does

For over 100 years, CSU Extension has served as a trusted partner for individuals and communities across Colorado. Its stated purpose is to help people and communities "learn, grow, and thrive" by turning university research into actionable information.

The organization operates as part of CSU's land-grant mission — the idea that a public university should share its knowledge beyond campus. Extension fulfills that by delivering programming, services, and expertise directly to communities rather than waiting for people to come to the university.

Topics and resources you can explore

The site organizes its resources into broad subject areas. According to the homepage, Extension is a source for information on:

  • Agriculture
  • Community & Economic Development
  • Emergency Planning
  • Food & Nutrition
  • Garden & Landscape
  • Health & Well-being
  • Insects & Pests
  • Natural Resources
  • Youth Development

Each topic links to resources, and there is an "Explore All Resources" entry point for browsing the full catalog.

Featured programs

Two programs are highlighted on the homepage, and they illustrate the range of what Extension offers:

Rocky Mountain Naturalist

A flexible online learning experience for anyone interested in nature, ecology, and conservation. It is a certificate program delivered through five online courses, focused on building a comprehensive understanding of the Southern Rocky Mountain Region.

Colorado Master Gardener

A program at the intersection of CSU's horticulture expertise and community volunteering. Master Gardeners across Colorado train in hands-on gardening, pollinator support, and local education, then give back to their communities. The site explains how to get involved.

Ways to learn

CSU Extension points to multiple learning paths depending on your situation:

  • Learn in my community — local programs near you
  • Learn online — remote courses and resources
  • Learn on campus — traditional CSU offerings

This matters if you are deciding how to engage: you do not have to be a CSU student or live near campus to use Extension resources.

Who should use this site

CSU Extension is aimed at Colorado residents — individuals, families, and communities — who want research-based answers rather than general internet advice. It is a good fit if you are:

  • A home gardener looking for region-specific guidance
  • A farmer, rancher, or land manager seeking drought or range planning help
  • Someone interested in nutrition, health, or emergency preparedness
  • A volunteer or community organizer wanting structured programs
  • A young person or parent exploring youth development opportunities

How to get started

  1. Go to extension.colostate.edu.
  2. Pick the topic area that matches your question (for example, Garden & Landscape).
  3. Browse resources or jump into a featured program like Colorado Master Gardener or Rocky Mountain Naturalist.
  4. Choose your learning format — community, online, or campus.

The site also publishes news and highlights, such as drought planning support and backyard poultry health testing, which can point you toward current programs and expertise.