Overview

The University of Minnesota Extension is a three-way partnership between Sherburne County, the University of Minnesota, and the United States Department of Agriculture. Extension focuses on delivering high quality, relevant educational programs and research-based information in three core areas:

  • Community Development and Vitality
  • Land, Food, and Environment
  • Youth Development and Family Living

The University of Minnesota Extension is the major outreach arm of the University of Minnesota, our state's land grant institution with a mission to serve the public through applied research and education. There are Extension offices on the University campuses, Research and Outreach Centers (formerly experiment stations), and in every county throughout the state to serve Minnesota's 87 counties providing the link between land grant research and Minnesota's citizens.

Our statewide network of researchers, educators, and volunteers address critical needs by focusing on issues where research-based education can make a difference.

Educational programs are offered through group settings, one-on-one contacts, mass communications, distance learning, self-learning opportunities, and collaborative efforts for citizens of Sherburne County, including families, youth, seniors, food producers, communities, and organizations.

View current programs, upcoming workshops and educational publications on our Sherburne County Extension Website or connect to 4-H in Sherburne County.

Come to our county office for:

  • 4-H Information: clubs, upcoming events, enrollment
  • Minnesota Gardening Calendars
  • 2006 Sherburne County plat books
  • Private Pesticide Applicator Training packets
  • University of Minnesota Extension publications

Other Resources:

  • Soil Test Applications (or pick up from our office)
  • Yard and Garden information
  • Farmer Information Line: 1-800-232-9077 or email
    Questions regarding land rent rates, fertilizers, organic options and so much more!
  • AnswerLine: 1-800-854-1678 or email
    Cooking, canning, freezing and general household questions

Upcoming Events

  • 4-H 14th Annual Tack Sale
    February 4, 2012

    15% Consignment Fee - Tack check in 9:15am to 10:30am and Tack check out 2:30pm to 3:15pm


  • 1st Annual Sherburne County 4-H Prom Dress Sale
    March 10, 2012

    On March 10 we will hold our 1st Annual Prom Dress Sale from 9 am to 2 pm at the Sherburne County Government Center; this event is open to anyone within the community. All proceeds from this fundraiser will help support our 4-H programming and scholarship funds.

    We are also seeking donations of gently-used, cleaned formal & semi-formal dresses and accessories - donations are needed no later than March 2.

    If you have any questions, dress or accessories to donate please contact the event coordinator Joe Rand at joerand@umn.edu or 763-765-3077.


  • 8th Annual Garden Expo
    April 14, 2012

    A sure way to think spring is to attend the 8th Annual Garden Expo hosted by the Sherburne County Master Gardeners! This event is scheduled for Saturday, April 14 at the Big Lake High School at 501 Minnesota Avenue in Big Lake from 7:30 am to 3 pm. Cost is $25 per person which includes seminars, educational and garden related exhibits, handouts, a light breakfast and lunch.


  • Enroll in 4-H Today!
    May 15, 2012

    4H in Sherburne County offers an informal educational program for all youth in grades kindergarten through one year past high school. We have eleven 4H clubs in Sherburne County. These clubs offer opportunities for young people to learn serve and lead. The 4H Clubs meet a minimum of six times a year and are lead by trained and screened adult volunteers. With the support of these caring adults the 4H program offers a wide range of project and activity areas for youth to learn and excel. Parents are actively involved throughout the year. 4H is a family oriented program.


  • The Original Sherburne County Plant Sale
    May 19, 2012

    Sale is 9–11 am, or when plants are gone. Plants ~ Flowers ~ Bulbs ~ Bushes ~ Annuals ~ Perennials ~ Vegetable Seedlings ~ Herbs ~ Garden Related Items. Proceeds Benefit: Sherburne County 4-H Camp Association & Sherburne County Master Gardeners


U of M Extension Contact:

Sherburne County Govt Center
ATTN: U of M Extension
13880 Business Center Dr NW
Elk River, MN 55330-1692

Office Location & Hours

Phone: 763-765-3075
800-433-5236
Fax: 763-765-3232

mnext-sherburne@umn.edu