Extension connects the power of UConn research to local issues by creat- ing practical, science-based answers to complex problems. Extension provides scientific knowledge and expertise to the public in areas such as: economic viability, nutrition and health, community development, agriculture, and natural resources. UConn Extension is in all 169 towns, with no fewer than 11 programs in each, and over 22 programs in some towns (Extension locations and contact informa- tion listed on back cover). UConn Extension Ties Research to Real Life 2016 by the Numbers Citizens Engaged Through our outreach program efforts, over 400,000 clientele contacts were achieved during the past year. FoodCorps and VISTA members’ focus on improving youth food environments, 4-H builds science and leadership skills in youth, and IPM and invasive plant programs work with farmers, citizens, and towns. 1,458 4-H 574 Master Gardeners 876 school gardens & food justice projects Volunteers Volunteers fuel Extension programs allowing us to reach every town in the state with no fewer than 11 programs in each town, and in some towns over 22 programs. Many of our programs utilize volunteers, including 4-H, Master Gardeners, and school garden projects. Graduates We develop healthy, productive, sustain- able and financially secure families and communities – including through our People Empowering People (PEP) and financial education programs. Training Local land use commissioners and tree wardens make decisions that can affect citizens for generations. Our programs have provided advanced training to over 6,000 local officials to provide tools to make better decisions. Plants Plants play an important role in protection of the environment, conservation of natural resources, and enhancement and preservation of open spaces. UConn Extension has many pro- grams that work with plants, and these are just two examples. 110UConn students in first year expe- rience classes with financial education 600 plants at two living shoreline projects were planted with 100 volunteer hours 764 plant samples diagnosed with recommendations made 480 PEP graduates in 2016 20 U.S. states using the rain garden app Rain Garden States The rain garden app guides homeowners and landscapers through determining the size and placement of the garden, selecting appropriate plants, and includes tools for determining soil type, and managing multiple rain garden projects. 17,765 16,940 16,000 12,011 39,460 FoodCorps Summer Meals VISTA Project Integrated Pest Management 4-H Invasive Plants 1,500 land use decision makers 4,500 tree wardens $12 million in awarded grants 508 formal outreach programs 1,116 clinical, extension or other expert services provided 393 Extension publications 2016 HIGHLIGHTS OF EXTENSION 5