It carries out its mission by extending the research knowledge base of the university to people who need the information, and provides leadership in applying this knowledge to the problems people have identified. Anyone may take part in Extension Service offerings and the Extension staff is actively involving Oregonians who may not previously have used Extension Service programs. Thousands of Oregon citizens volunteer to assist in Extension programs by leading and teaching groups. Extension educational programs are developed in response to the needs of people in Oregon. More than half of Extension's faculty are located off-campus in field offices.
Financial support is from county, state, federal, and other sources.
For efficiency and for program quality, the Extension Service conducts its work on the basis of planned programs approved by the University and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Major program emphasis is on food and fiber production, farm business management, marketing and processing of agricultural products, and resource use and conservation. Home Economics Extension's Family and Community Development program offers educational opportunities to help individuals and families manage their resources to meet needs for food, health, parenting, and human relationships. Forestry Extension's forestry program improves Oregonians' knowledge of forest resources and their options for expanding benefits from these resources. This educational program assists forest owners, managers, processors, and users in understanding small woodland production and management and use of all forest lands.