By Blake Jackson
Lincoln University of Missouri (LU) continues to advance its land-grant mission by providing education, research and outreach programs that help strengthen communities throughout the state.
Through Lincoln University Cooperative Extension (LUCE), the university delivers practical resources, lifelong learning opportunities and research-based knowledge to support individuals, families and local communities.
A key part of this effort is the Innovative Small Farmers' Outreach Program (ISFOP), which helps small farmers, community gardeners and backyard growers access free workshops, educational programs and on-farm assistance.
Extension educators across Missouri provide training on topics such as soil health, composting and herbal medicine, helping participants develop skills they can apply in their own growing spaces.
Job Green, an ISFOP Extension Agent in Caruthersville, believes community outreach is about more than agriculture — it is about creating opportunities for people to connect and learn.
Through LU’s community garden, launched in December 2025, Green works with residents by combining hands-on gardening experiences with guidance from LUCE educators and agricultural specialists.
“Having 25 youth from the Caruthersville Middle School come out to help harvest potatoes was the most gratifying event,” Green said.
“To see the wonder and excitement on their faces as they had gardening experiences for the first time put everything into perspective and showed me the potential of our mission.”
Within six months, volunteers transformed a backyard space into a successful garden, producing more than 150 pounds of potatoes, nearly 100 pounds of tomatoes and multiple varieties of vegetables and herbs.
“Anyone who has interest can become more knowledgeable about small farming and gardening at ISFOP events,” Green remarked. “We support them with education, consultation and research, to encourage healthy individuals and healthy communities.”
ISFOP Director Mark Lucas said the program focuses on accessibility and serving people who need agricultural support.
“We’re focused on serving underserved, underrepresented groups, but we don’t ever turn anybody away,” Lucas said. “If someone needs help, we’re going to help.”
The program also promotes inclusive education through educators like Bryan de Valdivia, who provides bilingual agricultural support for Spanish-speaking farmers.
“What Lincoln does differently is show up in person,” Valdivia said. “I go to the farm. I walk through the science and recommended practices in language they're comfortable with — nothing gets lost between the office and the field.”
Through personal connections, education and research-based guidance, LUCE continues helping Missouri communities build stronger and more sustainable agricultural futures.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-pixdeluxe
Categories: Missouri, Education