Orange County
Welcome
Since 1914, UC Cooperative Extension has been "California’s first incubator"—the bridge between local issues and innovative answers through the power of UC research. Cooperating is in our DNA. We are the local access point for the University of California's expertise in this dynamic region, operating through a vital partnership with the County of Orange to address complex urban and natural resource challenges.
Our Core Programs
Explore how Cooperative Extension Orange County serves as your local access to UC resources through our specialized programs.
Urban Forestry & Forest Health
We provide critical research on managing urban trees, natural resources, and exotic species control, focusing heavily on devastating threats like the Invasive Shot Hole Borer. More information at our Urban Forestry program page.
Human-Wildlife Interactions
We advance research and provide education on minimizing conflicts between humans and local wildlife, focusing on disease prevention and effective management strategies. Explore more at our Human-Wildlife Interactions program page.
Building Urban Watershed Resilience
This regional program provides essential insights and research into the critical role of water in Southern California’s urban environments, focusing on effective water management, quality, and supply security for Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties. For more detailed information, explore our SoCal Water Resources website.
South Coast REC: Research Hub & Living Laboratory
The South Coast Research and Extension Center (SCREC) serves as a regional living laboratory where UC scientists conduct agricultural and natural resources management research and extend information to a wide spectrum of audiences. The Center has earned a distinguished reputation, holding several U.S. patents for fruit varieties developed by UC researchers utilizing the facility.
Statewide Programs
These programs are delivered locally by UCCE Orange County staff and volunteers, ensuring that high-impact statewide resources benefit our communities directly.
4-H Youth Development
4-H empowers youth (ages 5-19) to become competent, confident leaders through hands-on, project-based learning in STEM, citizenship, and healthy living. Find out how to get involved at our Orange County 4-H page.
Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP)
The Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) assists limited-resource families gain the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and changed behavior necessary to choose nutritionally sound diets and improve their well-being. To learn more about the program's impact, read about our 2022 California Impacts or explore the EFNEP state-wide program page.
Sustainable Horticulture & Gardening
The UC Master Gardener Program provides research-based information on home horticulture, sustainable landscaping, and pest management. Our volunteers share expertise through hotlines and workshops. Explore more at our Master Gardener Program page.
Safe Food Preservation
The UC Master Food Preserver Program offers trusted advice and workshops on safe food preservation techniques, food safety, and waste reduction. Learn more at our Master Food Preserver Program page.
Invasive Pest Alert
Stay informed about the most significant threats to Orange County's trees and crops. Click on any pest to access UC research, diagnosis tools, and management resources:
Invasive Shot Hole Borer (ISHB)
Learn about the Invasive Shot Hole Borers (ISHB): A non-native beetle complex causing Fusarium dieback and widespread tree mortality in urban and wildland forests.
Asian Citrus Psyllid
About the Asian Citrus Psyllid (ACP) & Huanglongbing (HLB): A serious insect/disease complex that is deadly to citrus trees and requires immediate homeowner action to protect local fruit production.
Gold Spotted Oak Borer (GSOB)
Find out more about the Goldspotted Oak Borer (GSOB): An invasive pest contributing to widespread oak tree mortality in Southern California, posing a severe threat to natural and residential landscapes.
South American Palm Weevil
Get information on the American Palm Weevil: A destructive pest that feeds on the crown of palm trees, potentially leading to palm death, and is a threat to the region's iconic ornamental and commercial date palms.
Key Local Resources & Connecting with Us
- Avocado Resources: Access a collection of information for those who are looking to grow their own avocado, or just to learn more about this fantastic fruit.
- Join our list: Stay connected with our events and activities by signing up to be on our email distribution list.