Cow-calf operations center in the rangeland areas of Owyhee, Washington, and Adams counties. Dairies are located in Ada and Canyon counties. Extension education covers production, management, and marketing of these agricultural commodities, as well as natural resource conservation and development. Rapid business and industrial expansion in Boise has encouraged population growth that spills over into the surrounding counties. Agricultural lands are rapidly being turned into housing developments.
Schools are crowded and communities are constrained in providing adequate public services.
Extension education for families and youth include family financial management, food safety and preservation, nutrition, diet, and health, as well as family and youth development. Leadership and volunteer development programs include the 4-H Program, Master Gardeners, and Food Safety Advisors Program. Federal grants fund educational programs in water quality as well as nutrition and resource management for low income families.