Farm Fresh Solutions: Municipal Strategies for Equitable Food Access
One of the most effective ways to address food insecurity in lower-income communities is through the strategic expansion of Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs and farm share initiatives. These models shorten the supply chain by connecting consumers directly with producers, which can reduce food costs and increase access to fresh produce. Municipal governments can work with local farms to subsidize CSA shares for families using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits. Programs like Double Up Food Bucks, which match SNAP dollars spent on fruits and vegetables, can be integrated into CSA models to make them more accessible for economically disadvantaged households1.
To implement this effectively, municipalities can form partnerships between local health departments, agricultural extension offices, and nonprofit food organizations. These partnerships can handle logistics such as distribution hubs, refrigeration, and pickup points in neighborhoods identified as food deserts. Additionally, offering CSA shares at local schools, libraries, or community centers can reduce transportation barriers. Municipalities might also consider offering tiered pricing structures based on income or integrating cost reductions into existing social service programs. These strategies not only improve access to healthy foods but also support local farms and strengthen regional food systems2.
Farm-to-Table Programs as a Holistic Public Health Strategy
Farm-to-table programs can serve as a foundational strategy in improving community health outcomes. By increasing the availability of nutrient-dense foods and reducing reliance on processed items, these programs are aligned with public health goals to combat diet-related illnesses such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. Municipal governments can support farm-to-table programs by incentivizing restaurants, schools, and institutional kitchens to purchase from local producers. This can be achieved through procurement policies, tax credits, or grant funding for equipment upgrades that facilitate the handling of fresh produce3.
Integrating farm-to-table models into public institutions such as schools and hospitals also creates educational and economic opportunities. For example, school districts can incorporate food literacy into their curriculum, teaching children about agriculture, nutrition, and sustainability. This not only promotes healthier eating habits but can also spark interest in agricultural careers, thereby addressing workforce shortages in the farming sector. Hospitals that adopt farm-to-institution procurement practices can improve patient recovery outcomes and reduce food waste by using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients4.
Leveraging SNAP and WIC to Support Local Agricultural Systems
Federal assistance programs like SNAP and WIC provide critical support to low-income households, but their integration with local agriculture remains underutilized. Municipal governments can work with state agencies to certify farmers markets, mobile markets, and CSA programs as eligible SNAP and WIC vendors. This requires coordination with the USDA and local market managers to ensure that Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) systems are available and functional. Additionally, municipalities can allocate grant funding or technical assistance to help small producers navigate the certification process5.
Beyond access, program design can influence food purchasing behaviors. For instance, WIC’s Cash Value Benefit (CVB) for fruits and vegetables can be better utilized if recipients are educated about local options and offered incentives for purchasing seasonal produce. Municipalities can provide nutrition education through community health workers or local extension agents, tailored to culturally relevant foods and recipes. These efforts not only increase program participation but also stimulate local demand for fresh produce, creating a feedback loop that benefits regional agricultural economies6.
Health and Economic Spillovers into Broader Policy Areas
The positive effects of increased access to local, healthy foods extend into other critical areas of public policy. From a healthcare perspective, municipalities that support agricultural access strategies may see reductions in emergency room visits and chronic disease management costs. Local governments can track these trends through partnerships with public health departments and academic institutions conducting health impact assessments. The data generated can support future funding applications and policy development aimed at preventative healthcare initiatives7.
Economic development is another area that benefits from localized agriculture programs. Farm-to-table and CSA initiatives can create jobs not only in farming, but also in logistics, food processing, and education. Municipal governments can facilitate this growth by including urban agriculture and food entrepreneurship in their economic development strategies. Zoning policies can be updated to allow for community gardens, rooftop farms, and small-scale food processing facilities. These changes promote local self-sufficiency and resilience, particularly in communities that have historically faced disinvestment8.
Municipal Strategies for Sustainable Implementation
For municipalities to sustain these initiatives, cross-sector collaboration is essential. City planners, economic development officials, and public health professionals must work together to embed food access strategies into local comprehensive plans. This could include mapping food deserts, identifying underutilized land for community gardens, and incorporating food access goals into transportation planning. Municipal governments can also create food policy councils composed of residents, farmers, business owners, and nonprofit representatives to ensure community-driven solutions9.
Funding is a recurring challenge, but municipalities can leverage a mix of federal grants, local tax incentives, and private philanthropy. Programs like the USDA’s Local Food Promotion Program and the Healthy Food Financing Initiative offer financial support for food access projects. Additionally, municipalities can use American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to invest in food infrastructure that aligns with public health and economic recovery goals. Ensuring long-term success requires integrating these initiatives into municipal budgets and performance metrics, not treating them as one-time projects10.
Bibliography
U.S. Department of Agriculture. “Double Up Food Bucks: Helping Low-Income Families Eat More Fresh Produce.” 2022. https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2022/08/01/double-food-bucks-helping-low-income-families-eat-more-fresh-produce.
National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition. “Farm to School and Community Supported Agriculture.” 2020. https://sustainableagriculture.net/publications/grassrootsguide/local-food-systems-rural-development/farm-to-school/.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Healthy Food Procurement Initiatives.” 2021. https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/healthy-food-environments/procurement-initiatives.html.
Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy. “Farm to Hospital: Supporting Local Food Systems through Institutional Procurement.” 2019. https://www.iatp.org/documents/farm-to-hospital-report.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service. “SNAP at Farmers Markets: A How-To Handbook.” 2021. https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/farmers-markets.
National WIC Association. “Maximizing the WIC Cash Value Benefit.” 2022. https://www.nwica.org/maximizing-cvb.
Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. “Health Impact Assessment of Local Food Programs.” 2020. https://www.rwjf.org/en/library/research/2020/05/health-impact-assessment-of-local-food-programs.html.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. “Smart Growth and Economic Success: Investing in Infill Development.” 2017. https://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/smart-growth-and-economic-success-investing-infill-development.
Johns Hopkins Center for a Livable Future. “Food Policy Councils and Municipal Food Governance.” 2021. https://clf.jhsph.edu/projects/food-policy-councils.
Local and Regional Food Systems Response to COVID. “Federal Funding Opportunities for Local Food Systems.” 2021. https://lfscovid.localfoodeconomics.com/funding-opportunities/.
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About The Role The Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a skilled Grounds and Nursery Services Specialist 4 to support the upkeep of the grounds at the Washington Soldiers Home. This role involves performing experienced gardening and landscaping work, caring for all grounds, landscapes, nurseries, and greenhouse areas to create and maintain safe, welcoming, and beautiful outdoor spaces. The expected shift is 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Key Responsibilities - Perform and lead others in preparing and maintaining outdoor floral beds, display areas, soil improvements, and planting floral displays. - Monitor floral displays for disease and pest control utilizing chemical, biological, and other control measures. - Cultivate, water, fertilize, prune, and mulch floral displays and perennials. - Maintain turf grass areas including fertilizing, pest management, irrigation, and mowing. - Maintain extensive hedge material through shearing, shaping, and meeting cultural requirements. - Mow lawns, trim grass near fences and buildings, and remove leaves using tractors and power blowers. - Rake, pick up debris, and keep campus lawns attractive. - Irrigate lawns, trees, and shrubs using sprinklers, hoses, and water breakers. - Identify and control lawn disease and insect damage. - Apply fertilizers, calibrate sprayers and spreaders, and remove or replace soil for seeding. - Restore bare spots in lawns by reseeding, resodding, and dethatching. - Operate and service power equipment such as lawn aerators, fertilizer spreaders, and tractors. - Effectively use hand tools like brooms, shovels, rakes, and post hole diggers. Minimum Qualifications 1. Two years of experience in gardening, plant care, landscape construction, and grounds maintenance. 2. A college degree involving major study in agronomy, botany, horticulture, soils, or a closely allied field may be substituted for gardening experience. 3. A combination of education and experience may be considered on a year-for-year basis. 4. Must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English to facilitate effective performance of job duties. 5. Agency Required Competencies: The ability to take action to learn and grow, and the ability to take action to meet the needs of others. 6. Preferred: Experience in performing grounds and maintenance for a large-scale facility. Special Requirements 1. Must pass a DSHS BCCU Background Check prior to beginning services and every two years. 2. Must comply with annual Tuberculin Screening. 3. Must be able to lift up to 60 lbs, reach a minimum of 36 inches, push or pull with sufficient strength, and walk, sit, and bend unrestricted during the entire workday. 4. Must maintain regular and reliable attendance. 5. Must successfully complete all mandatory orientation and training within mandated timeframes. 6. Must comply with all DVA policies, procedures, and Collective Bargaining Agreements. 7. Must sign the confidentiality statement for all employees. 8. Positions requiring travel must have a valid unrestricted driver's license and be insured if driving a privately owned vehicle on state business. 9. Must possess work authorization that does not require employer sponsorship for a visa now or in the future. Selection Process - Top candidates will be contacted directly to interview. - Selection is based on information provided; candidates should identify knowledge, skills, and abilities addressing mandatory and desirable qualifications. - Finalists will be asked to provide a list of at least three professional references with current telephone numbers. How To Apply - Include a letter of interest describing specific qualifications. - Include a current resume detailing applicable experience and education. - For questions, contact recruiters@dva.wa.gov. - Persons with a disability needing assistance may call (360) 725-2183 or TTY 711. Employment Details - Location: Pierce County - Orting, WA (Washington Soldiers Home) - Job Type: Full Time - Permanent - Department: Dept. of Veterans Affairs - Division: Washington Soldiers Home - Union: Washington Federation of State Employees - Employer: State of Washington - The State of Washington is an equal opportunity and diversity, equity, and inclusion employer.
ABOUT THE ROLE Denver Parks and Recreation (DPR) is seeking three Park Horticulturists for the East, Northeast, and Northwest districts of Denver. This position offers a unique opportunity for professionals passionate about creating beautiful landscapes and natural areas for citizens. Park Horticulturists perform restoration, cultivation, care, and management within various natural and traditional park landscapes and gardens. The role involves working outdoors, guiding less seasoned workers, and implementing best practices in horticulture. This is a full-time position working 40 hours per week, typically from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Perform cultivation, restoration, management, and general maintenance of flower gardens, lawns, shrubs, trees, ground covers, natural areas, and wildlife habitats - Guide less seasoned workers to implement best practices in horticulture - Prepare working sketches of flower beds or water-conserving landscapes - Prepare, fertilize, amend, or condition soils for different types of plants or plant communities - Participate in planning and development of planting programs, natural open space restoration projects, and management schedules - Make recommendations for the number and types of plants to be grown in assigned locations - Perform weed management and determine appropriate growing conditions (soil, sunlight, moisture, temperature, humidity) - Prepare reports and maintain records of plant maintenance, weed management, and restoration activities - Ensure safe handling and proper utilization of hand-powered tools, motorized equipment, and spray equipment - Safely mix, prepare, and appropriately apply chemicals - Develop and modify work plans to align with innovative approaches and best practices - Perform related park maintenance tasks such as trash collection, bathroom maintenance, vandalism repair/graffiti removal, and snow removal as needed MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Education: High school diploma or GED/HiSET/TASC Certificate - Experience: Three (3) years of experience in the cultivation and care of a wide variety of ornamental/native plants OR horticultural/ecological restoration - Licensure/Certification: Valid Driver's License at the time of application SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Certification in Pesticide Application by the State of Colorado must be obtained by completion of the probationary period and kept current as a condition of employment - Equivalency: Additional appropriate education may substitute for minimum experience requirements, except for one year of experience in the care of ornamental/native plants or restoration. For example: - Master Gardener Program completion may substitute up to four semester hours - Relevant Continuing Education Units (CEU) in horticulture or Naturalist Training Programs may substitute for three semester hours (45 contact classroom hours = 3 semester hours) - Additional appropriate experience in horticulture, botany, natural resources, range management, or restoration may substitute for the education requirement - Must have valid work authorization that does not require visa sponsorship - Employees may be re-deployed to other capacities during citywide emergencies SELECTION PROCESS - Applications are accepted on a rolling basis - Selection is based on the evaluation of education, experience, and qualifications relative to the position requirements HOW TO APPLY - Submit application online via the City and County of Denver career portal - Job Requisition ID: R0082004 - Apply as soon as possible to ensure consideration - To request accommodations (language assistance, sign language interpretation, etc.), contact Jobs@Denvergov.org with three business days’ notice EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City and County of Denver, Parks and Recreation - Location: Greater Denver Area (East, Northeast, and Northwest districts) - Job Type: Full-Time, Unlimited Position Type - Work Schedule: 40 hours per week, 6:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. - Benefits: - Guaranteed life-long monthly pension (vested after 5 years) - 457B Retirement Plan - 140 hours of PTO earned within the first year - 11 paid holidays, 1 personal holiday, and 1 volunteer day per year - Competitive medical, dental, and vision plans effective within 1 month of start date - Equal Opportunity Employer: Provides equal employment opportunities without regard to protected characteristics.
ABOUT THE ROLE The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets is hiring hundreds of temporary positions to ensure the success of the 2026 New York State Fair, running from August 26th to September 7th. This annual 13-day event preserves and promotes New York's agricultural heritage, showcasing livestock, produce, and youth competitions. Temporary employees are vital to the execution of the Fair, with many roles involving active outdoor work in various weather conditions across multiple departments. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Responsibilities vary by department, including: - Agriculture: Clean barns and tend to animals in poultry, rabbit, beef cattle, dairy cattle, and horse departments. - Guest Relations and Ticket Takers: Welcome guests, provide facility information, and scan tickets at entry points. - Safety: Assist guests while following all safety protocols. - Bag Check: Guard entry points, verify visitor credentials, and check bags. - Chevy Security: Perform security services at Chevy Court and Suburban Park concert locations. - Tram Conductor: Assist passengers on and off perimeter trams. - Tram Driver: Safely transport passengers on a truck-pulled wagon to and from tram stops. - Sensory Room: Monitor and assist guests in inclusive sensory programming areas, warmly interacting with guests who may have sensory-processing differences, autism, PTSD, or other conditions. - State Fair Merchandise Truck: Operate POS systems, collect payments, maintain inventory, and keep merchandise clean and stocked. - Camping: Assist with campground operations, verify guest credentials, and provide directions. - Potato Booth: Bake potatoes, prepare toppings, maintain a clean environment, provide customer service, and handle cash transactions. - Events: Manage logistics of special events, greet and host entertainment, speak to large groups, and complete event paperwork. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Qualifications vary by the specific role applied for. General eligibility is required, with specific roles requiring: - CDL Class B License with a "P" Endorsement (Tram Driver) - 8-hour security course completion, unexpired security guard license, active military membership, or active/retired police officer status (Bag Check) - 16-hour New York State Security Guard License, active military membership, or active/retired police officer status (Chevy Security) SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Ability to work actively outdoors in various weather conditions. - Some positions require additional credentials or licenses as noted in the minimum qualifications. - Some positions may require a background check to verify identity. SELECTION PROCESS - Review of the online application and uploaded resume. HOW TO APPLY - Copy and paste the application link into a web browser to apply online. - Upload a resume within the online application. - Application Link: https://recruitingbypaycor.com/career/SubmitResume.action?clientId=8a7883d07a219b0d017a53a2e3bb0f9a&id=8a78859f9d4aea0c019d632817d30ca9&specialization= - For questions, contact Lauren Denny in Human Resources at (315) 728-4254 or HarvestYourPotential@agriculture.ny.gov. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Agency: Department of Agriculture & Markets - Employment Type: Full-Time, Temporary - Bargaining Unit: OSU - Operational Services Unit (CSEA) - Jurisdictional Class: Labor Class - Schedule: Variable workweek, 40 hours per week, 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM - Location: 581 State Fair Blvd, Syracuse, NY 13209 (Onondaga County) - Travel Percentage: 0% - Flextime, Mandatory Overtime, Compressed Workweek, and Telecommuting: Not allowed - Applications Due: September 7, 2026 - Equal Opportunity Employer: The Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing equal employment opportunity and reasonable accommodations for qualified persons with disabilities.
ABOUT THE ROLE The Agricultural Technician, Senior provides support for the Parma Research and Extension Center's research activities and farm operations. This role performs and oversees skilled tasks including operating, calibrating, and maintaining equipment, repairing and fabricating agricultural equipment, maintaining buildings and facilities, monitoring safe work conditions, and supervising temporary staff to ensure compliance with safety procedures. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Operate, calibrate, and maintain hand and tractor-driven equipment for planting, cultivating, irrigating, spraying, harvesting, and storing crops - Repair, modify, and fabricate agricultural and research equipment using mechanical tools and welding techniques - Maintain buildings, facilities, and grounds, including carpentry, plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling systems, and lawn care - Monitor safe work conditions, supervise temporary staff, and maintain accurate records of equipment, maintenance, and work performed - Repair and maintain hydraulic, electrical, brake, and small engine systems on farm and research equipment - Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic system issues and determine appropriate repairs - Read and interpret technical service manuals and use computers to access email and online resources MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - High school diploma or equivalent - Experience repairing and maintaining hydraulic, electrical, brake, and small engine systems on farm equipment, vehicles, and research equipment - Experience modifying, repairing, and fabricating equipment for field, greenhouse, and laboratory research - Experience operating welding equipment including arc, TIG, MIG, oxy-acetylene, and wire feed - Experience maintaining and repairing buildings and facilities, including carpentry, structural systems, plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical systems - Experience using and maintaining hand and power tools for construction, maintenance, and repair - Experience troubleshooting mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic system issues and reading technical service manuals SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Commercial Driver's License or ability to obtain within 3 months, subject to Department of Transportation drug and alcohol testing - Professional pesticide applicator's license or ability to obtain within 6 months - Post-secondary technical or mechanical training or certification is preferred - Experience with computer-controlled vehicle systems and proficiency with MS Excel and Word are preferred - Ability to work in adverse environmental conditions and perform extensive manual labor - Ability to lift, carry, or move up to 80 lbs SELECTION PROCESS 1. Application and cover letter review to ensure all minimum qualifications are addressed 2. Evaluation of preferred qualifications to improve ranking 3. Criminal background check for final possible candidates HOW TO APPLY 1. Submit a Resume or CV 2. Submit a Cover Letter that explicitly addresses EACH of the minimum qualifications and as many preferred qualifications as possible 3. Optionally submit a List of References 4. Complete the required supplemental questions regarding referrals and how the opportunity was discovered EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: Parma Research and Extension Center, Parma, Idaho - Position Type: Full Time, Non-Exempt, Classified, Fiscal Year Appointment - FTE: 1 - Visa Sponsorship: Not available - Application Deadline: Applications received by July 2, 2026, will receive first consideration; the posting is open until filled - Equal Opportunity: The University of Idaho is an equal employment opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities
ABOUT THE ROLE The Davis College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at West Virginia University (WVU) invites applications for part-time adjunct faculty to support the School of Natural Resources and the Environment. Appointments are made on a semester-by-semester basis, depending on course enrollments and faculty availability. The School includes programs in Environmental, Energy and Land Management; Environmental, Soil and Water Sciences; Forest Resources and Conservation; and Wildlife and Fisheries Resources. This role aligns with WVU's land-grant mission of preparing students for impactful careers and serving the people of West Virginia. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Teach undergraduate and/or graduate courses in relevant disciplines - Employ student-centered instruction, inclusive pedagogy, and experiential learning approaches - Communicate effectively with students and colleagues - Contribute to the academic mission of the School of Natural Resources and the Environment MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - A graduate degree relevant to the course(s) taught is required at the time of appointment - Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and teach undergraduate and/or graduate students PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS - A doctoral degree - Experience with student-centered instruction, inclusive pedagogy, and/or experiential learning approaches - Professional experience in applied settings relevant to the course(s) taught SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Availability to teach on a semester-by-semester basis as needs arise SELECTION PROCESS - Review of applications occurs on an as-needed basis and continues on a rolling basis - Qualified candidates may be contacted at any time when an opportunity becomes available HOW TO APPLY Applicants must submit the following materials: - A cover letter indicating discipline(s) and course(s) of interest, availability, and relevant teaching or professional experience - A current curriculum vitae (CV) - A brief statement of teaching philosophy - Contact information for at least three professional references EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Position Type: Part-time / Adjunct Faculty - Schedule: Semester-by-semester appointments - Location: West Virginia University (Davis College of Agriculture and Natural Resources) - Department: School of Natural Resources and the Environment - Application Review: Begins immediately and continues on a rolling basis - Equal Opportunity Employer: WVU invites all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status
ABOUT THE ROLE The School of Natural Resources and the Environment (SNRE) in the Davis College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at West Virginia University invites applications for a full-time, 11-month Teaching Assistant Professor position in the Environmental, Energy and Land Management (EELM) program. This non-tenure-track role is dedicated to leading and growing a nationally recognized, AAPL-accredited program. The position focuses on preparing students for careers in energy, land management, right-of-way, and environmental consulting. Responsibilities are distributed as 70% teaching and 30% service, with a strong emphasis on industry collaboration, student engagement, and program coordination. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Teach five undergraduate courses in land management, law, policy, and related topics - Serve as Academic Program Coordinator for the EELM program - Maintain and strengthen partnerships with industry stakeholders and alumni - Coordinate internships, career guidance, and job placement support for students - Oversee and expand the program’s Right-of-Way (ROW) micro-credential program for undergraduate students and adult learners - Maintain compliance with American Association of Professional Landmen (AAPL) accreditation standards - Coordinate student participation in professional events, conferences, and competitions - Support student scholarship opportunities and professional development - Maintain program communications, marketing materials, website content, and social media presence - Track and report program outcomes including enrollment, internships, scholarships, and alumni success - Maintain active engagement with professional organizations such as AAPL and the International Right of Way Association MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Master’s degree (or terminal degree) in land management, environmental management, law, business, marketing, natural resources, or a closely related field - At least two years of relevant professional experience in academia, industry, or a related field - Strong communication and organizational skills - Ability to build and maintain relationships with industry partners and external stakeholders - Demonstrated commitment to student success and experiential learning PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS - Experience teaching at the university or professional training level - Professional experience in land management, energy development, right-of-way, environmental permitting, or related industries - Familiarity with AAPL accreditation standards and industry practices - Experience coordinating programs, outreach initiatives, or workforce development efforts - Existing professional industry connections within the Appalachian region SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Full-time, 11-month appointment - Non-tenure-track faculty position SELECTION PROCESS - Applications are reviewed based on submitted materials - Specific review timeline is not detailed in the posting HOW TO APPLY Applicants must submit the following documents: - Cover letter - Curriculum vitae or resume - Statement of teaching philosophy and student engagement - Contact information for three professional references EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Position Type: Full-time, Non-tenure-track Faculty - Schedule: 11-month appointment - Location: West Virginia University (Davis College of Agriculture and Natural Resources) - Department: School of Natural Resources and the Environment - Work Distribution: 70% Teaching, 30% Service - Equal Opportunity Employer: WVU invites all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status
ABOUT THE ROLE - 12-month, tenure-track Extension Educator with the rank of Assistant Professor for Bear Lake County. - Part of the University of Idaho Extension Eastern District, College of Agricultural & Life Sciences. - Provides leadership for multifaceted livestock, agriculture, and 4-H Youth Development programs. - Collaborates closely with county partners, commissioners, and community organizations to ensure programs meet local needs and align with University and Extension priorities. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide leadership for livestock programs (50%), agriculture programs (30%), and 4-H Youth Development programs (20%). - Collaborate with county partners and community organizations to align programs with local needs and University priorities. - Conduct scholarly work and creative activities (5%). - Contribute to University leadership and service, including county chair duties (15%). - Adapt research materials for effective oral and written presentations. - Recruit, teach, organize, and manage groups. - Use technology for program delivery, reporting, and team-based communication. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Education: Master's degree from an accredited institution in animal science, agricultural science, Extension education, or a closely related discipline. The degree must be completed by the date of hire. - Experience: Experience providing organizational structure and support for a variety of individuals and groups. - Experience: Experience in adapting research materials for effective oral and written presentations. - Experience: Experience recruiting, teaching, organizing, and managing groups. - Experience: Experience using technology for program delivery, reporting, and team-based communication. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must work a flexible schedule, including some weekends. - Must possess a valid driver's license. - Physical ability to lift, carry, and/or otherwise move 50 lbs. SELECTION PROCESS - Applications received by July 18, 2026, will receive first consideration. - The position is open until filled. - Final possible candidates must be able to pass a criminal background check. - Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. HOW TO APPLY - Submit an online application through the University of Idaho careers portal. - Write a letter of qualification addressing how you meet the required and preferred qualifications. - Upload a current CV or resume. - Provide names and contact information for at least three professional references. - Upload unofficial transcripts. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: University of Idaho, College of Agricultural & Life Sciences, Eastern District. - Location: Bear Lake County - Montpelier, Idaho. - Position Type: Faculty, Tenure Track, Assistant Professor, 12-month Fiscal Year contract. - FLSA Status: Exempt. - Anticipated Contract Start Date: August 17, 2026. - The University of Idaho is an equal employment opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.