About the University of Georgia Extension
The University of Georgia Extension provides research-based education and outreach programs that support agriculture, horticulture, forestry, natural resources, family and consumer sciences, youth development, and community improvement throughout Georgia. Through county Extension offices located across the state, the University of Georgia connects residents, businesses, farmers, landowners, and community leaders with practical solutions backed by university research.
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Georgia’s diverse geography includes coastal plains, agricultural regions, forests, mountains, urban centers, and rapidly growing suburban communities. The University of Georgia Extension develops programs specifically designed to address the challenges and opportunities found throughout the state’s varied environments.
Core Services Offered
The University of Georgia Extension provides educational programs and technical assistance that support economic growth, environmental stewardship, and community well-being.
Agriculture and Crop Production
Georgia is one of the nation’s leading agricultural states, producing a wide variety of crops and agricultural commodities. Extension specialists help growers improve productivity and sustainability.
- Crop production management
- Integrated pest management
- Soil fertility programs
- Irrigation management
- Nutrient management planning
- Agricultural business development
Extension programs support producers of cotton, peanuts, corn, soybeans, vegetables, pecans, blueberries, peaches, and many other crops.
Livestock and Poultry Programs
Georgia has a large livestock and poultry industry that benefits from Extension research and educational support.
- Beef cattle management
- Poultry production
- Pasture management
- Animal health education
- Forage production
- Livestock nutrition
Home Gardening and Horticulture
Homeowners and gardeners throughout Georgia rely on Extension resources to maintain healthy landscapes, gardens, and lawns.
- Vegetable gardening
- Fruit production
- Landscape maintenance
- Tree and shrub care
- Lawn management
- Garden pest identification
Master Gardener Extension Volunteer Program
The Georgia Master Gardener Extension Volunteer Program trains residents to provide educational assistance and gardening support within their communities.
Master Gardeners help residents with:
- Plant selection
- Pest identification
- Composting techniques
- Sustainable landscaping
- Native plant gardening
- Water conservation practices
Forestry and Natural Resources
Georgia contains millions of acres of forests that contribute significantly to the state’s economy and environment. Extension specialists provide education on forest management and conservation.
- Forest stewardship
- Wildlife habitat management
- Timber production
- Forest health monitoring
- Watershed protection
- Natural resource conservation
Family and Consumer Sciences
Extension educators provide programs that improve health, nutrition, and family well-being throughout Georgia.
- Nutrition education
- Food safety training
- Health and wellness programs
- Financial literacy education
- Consumer education
- Community development initiatives
4-H Youth Development
The Georgia 4-H program provides hands-on learning opportunities that help young people develop leadership skills and practical knowledge.
- STEM education
- Agricultural science
- Environmental education
- Leadership development
- Public speaking
- Community service projects
Pest Pressures and Challenges in Georgia
Georgia’s warm climate, abundant rainfall, and long growing season create ideal conditions for many agricultural, structural, and landscape pests. Extension specialists work closely with residents and producers to address these challenges using science-based management strategies.
Fire Ants
The Red Imported Fire Ant remains one of the most widespread and economically significant pests in Georgia.
Fire ants affect:
- Home landscapes
- Parks and recreational areas
- Agricultural operations
- Livestock production
- Schools and public spaces
Extension specialists provide educational resources covering fire ant identification, biology, prevention, and integrated management strategies.
Termites
Termites are among Georgia’s most destructive structural pests and are responsible for significant property damage each year.
Common termite species include:
- Eastern Subterranean Termites
- Formosan Subterranean Termites
- Drywood Termites
Extension publications help homeowners understand termite inspections, prevention measures, and treatment options.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are common throughout Georgia due to the state’s warm temperatures and abundant moisture.
Extension programs provide guidance on:
- Mosquito identification
- Breeding habitat reduction
- Personal protection measures
- Integrated mosquito management
- Community mosquito control strategies
Agricultural Crop Pests
Georgia growers face pressure from numerous insect pests that can impact crop yields and profitability.
Important agricultural pests include:
- Cotton Bollworms
- Thrips
- Stink Bugs
- Armyworms
- Whiteflies
- Peanut Pests
Extension entomologists provide monitoring reports and management recommendations throughout the growing season.
Pecan and Fruit Tree Pests
Georgia’s pecan orchards and fruit production systems face several significant pest challenges.
Common pests include:
- Pecan Weevils
- Aphids
- Scale Insects
- Borers
- Leaf-feeding Caterpillars
Extension specialists help orchard owners implement integrated management strategies to protect production.
Turfgrass Pests
Lawn care is a major concern for homeowners throughout Georgia.
Common turfgrass pests include:
- White Grubs
- Mole Crickets
- Armyworms
- Chinch Bugs
- Sod Webworms
Extension recommendations emphasize proper lawn maintenance and integrated pest management practices.
Forest and Tree Pests
Georgia’s forests face threats from both native and invasive insects.
Important forest pests include:
- Southern Pine Beetles
- Bark Beetles
- Emerald Ash Borers
- Defoliating Caterpillars
- Wood-boring Insects
Extension forestry programs provide landowners with information on forest health monitoring and pest management.
Invasive Species
Georgia continues to face challenges from invasive insects that threaten agriculture, forests, and landscapes.
Notable invasive species include:
- Spotted Lanternflies
- Emerald Ash Borers
- Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs
- Hemlock Woolly Adelgids
- Asian Longhorned Beetles
Extension personnel work closely with state and federal agencies to support monitoring, detection, and public education efforts.
Integrated Pest Management Programs
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) serves as a foundation for pest education programs throughout Georgia.
IPM programs focus on:
- Accurate pest identification
- Pest monitoring and scouting
- Preventive cultural practices
- Biological control methods
- Habitat modification
- Responsible pesticide use
These strategies help reduce pest populations while protecting beneficial organisms and environmental quality.
Research and Diagnostic Services
The University of Georgia conducts extensive research on agricultural, structural, urban, and environmental pest management issues.
Research areas include:
- Crop protection
- Biological control
- Pesticide resistance management
- Invasive species monitoring
- Urban pest management
- Forest health research
Extension specialists help translate research findings into practical recommendations for Georgia residents and businesses.
Educational Publications and Resources
The University of Georgia Extension publishes a wide variety of educational materials covering pest management, agriculture, horticulture, forestry, and community development.
Popular Resources Include:
- Pest identification guides
- Crop production manuals
- Turfgrass management publications
- Garden pest fact sheets
- Forestry resources
- Invasive species alerts
Many publications are available online and are updated regularly to reflect current research and emerging pest concerns.
Contact the University of Georgia Extension
Whether you need help identifying a pest, improving a lawn, managing a crop, protecting a forest, or maintaining a healthy landscape, the University of Georgia Extension provides access to research-based information and local expertise throughout the state.
Residents can contact their local county Extension office or visit the University of Georgia Extension website to access educational publications, pest management resources, diagnostic services, and professional guidance.
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