UC Garden Nutrition Extenders (UC GNE)

"I am very grateful because I have had so much support through [the UC GNE]program for the school garden. The support has been the difference between a struggling garden program and a thriving one." – UC GNE

A group of UC GNE volunteers.

Working with students

What is a UC GNE?

The University of California Garden Nutrition Extenders (UC GNE) in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties are trained volunteers with hands-on skills to conduct garden

Student planting in the garden

enhanced nutrition education including: planning school gardens, planting with the seasons, tasting food from the garden, connecting garden to cafeteria, working with educators and students, and providing outdoor education.

UC GNEs are currently working in classrooms (pre-K through 4th grade) in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties teaching the Learn, Grow, Eat Go! 4-H Junior Master Gardener curriculum. Classrooms that complete all lessons and develop their own service learning project may receive Jr. Master Gardener certificates.

Read our Frequently Asked Questions page for more information.

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What are UC GNEs up to?

UC GNEs are out in their communities making a difference! Using evidence-based curricula aligned with grade level standards, UC GNEs help teachers get their students outside, learning, eating and growing in the garden.

UC GNEs on the Food Blog:

School gardens get new life from UC Cooperative Extension volunteers

UC CalFresh & 4-H Youth Development Partnership, UCCE San Luis Obispo & Santa Barbara Counties