The Division of Extension is a partnership among counties, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the University of Wisconsin. Extension’s commitment to practical knowledge application uses education to address local concerns. County-based educators develop and implement programs, drawing from the expertise of the University of Wisconsin and other institutions.
We teach, learn, lead and serve, transforming lives and communities.
Program Areas

4-H and Youth
The Extension Institute of Positive Youth Development empowers youth for leadership through programs like teens in governance and 4-H activities, fostering hands-on experiences and global perspectives.

Agriculture
The Extension Agriculture Institutes support the agriculture community, promoting economic and environmental sustainability in Wisconsin through applied research in key areas: Agriculture Water Quality, Crops and Soils, Dairy and Livestock, and Farm Management.

Community Development
Community Development Educators offer educational programs focused on organizational capacity building, leadership development, community economic development, and local government education to support leaders, communities, and organizations.

Families & Finances
The Extension Institute of Human Development & Relationships fosters family growth, supports aging-friendly communities, provides effective parenting coaching, and offers practical guidance in technology, mindfulness, and financial awareness.

Food Systems
The Community Food System Program promotes resilient, place-based food systems by assisting community organizations, Tribal partners, local governments, small-scale farms, food businesses, and community gardens.

FoodWIse
FoodWIse is an educational program aiding limited-resource families in making healthy dietary choices, safely handling food, and improving food security. Through research-based education and partnerships, it empowers Wisconsin families and communities to spend their food dollars wisely.

Horticulture
The Dane County Extension Horticulture program provides research-based gardening information, services and resources to Dane County residents so they can keep their plants healthy while protecting the environment.

Natural Resources
Dane County Extension offers resources to address environmental challenges, providing training and education on sustainable management of food, water, and energy sources, along with insights into the human dimensions of resource management.
Latest News

Protecting Trees and Shrubs from Critter Damage in Winter
Before the ground freezes too far down, it is a good time to put protective fencing around trees and shrubs that may experience damage from deer, rabbit, vole, or mouse feeding over winter. Fruit trees, crabapples, burning bush, shrub hibiscus, Fothergilla, young witch hazel, low-growing junipers and arborvitae are among the plants most commonly damaged, […]

Retirement Planning Today
You’ve worked hard to provide for your family and save for your future. Learn how to keep more of what you earn and make your money work harder for you. This educational workshop is hosted by the Dane County Extension and the team of advisors at Wealth Distribution Strategies, along with guest speaker John Haslam […]

Tax Assistance Site Scheduler
The Tax Assistance Site Scheduler will answer calls to schedule appointments for the public at the Richard Dilley Tax Center Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) tax preparation site under the direction of the Financial & Life Span Educator. Must be available mid-January to mid-April 2024, Monday to Friday between 8 am – 4:30 pm. Some […]

Tax Assistance Site Program Coordinator
The Tax Assistance Site Program Coordinator will be on-site during tax season to assist with outreach and operations at the Richard Dilley Tax Center Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) site. Must be available December 2023 – April 2024 during normal business hours. Must be available Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays during the VITA center hours January […]
Our Office
Dane County-UW Extension
5201 Fen Oak Dr. Ste 138
Madison, WI 53718-8827
Phone: 608-224-3700
Fax: 608-224-3727
711 for Wisconsin Relay
Hours: M-F 8am – 4:30pm
Closed all major holidays (if the holiday falls on a Sunday we are closed the Monday after) AND the day after Thanksgiving.