NMSU Cooperative Extension Service provides the people of New Mexico with practical, research-based knowledge and programs to improve their quality of life.
See the Extension Calendar for a list of events in and near Sandoval County!
See the Sandoval County 4-H calender of events and newsletters
4‑H is the largest youth development organization in the nation, engaging more than 6 million young people each year through clubs, camps, school enrichment programs, and special interest activities. With over a century of Extension education behind it, 4‑H is built on a strong “learn‑by‑doing” philosophy that uses hands‑on, experiential learning to help youth build practical skills, confidence, and a lifelong enthusiasm for learning.
Through project areas such as agriculture, animal science, STEM, healthy living, leadership, creative arts, natural resources, and civic engagement, 4‑H members explore their interests while developing essential life skills—including communication, teamwork, responsibility, leadership, and critical thinking. Youth gain experience through project work, record books, demonstrations, and community involvement, learning to set goals, work toward them, and celebrate their accomplishments.
Open to youth ages 5–18, 4‑H offers multiple ways to get involved, with local 4‑H clubs serving as the most common entry point. Clubs provide a safe, supportive environment where members connect with caring adult volunteers, complete research‑based project curriculum, and take part in community service, competitions, fairs, workshops, and leadership opportunities.
4‑H in Sandoval County
Sandoval County is home to a thriving and steadily expanding 4‑H program. The county hosts eight community clubs and serves more than 170 youth each year. Members participate in a wide range of county, district, and statewide events—such as contests, workshops, skill‑building clinics, leadership retreats, and service projects—that help them grow as leaders, build friendships, and strengthen their project skills. The program’s growth reflects the strong commitment of families, volunteers, and community partners who support meaningful learning experiences for young people.
We are honored to have over 150 volunteer Master Gardeners in Sandoval County that have been trained and educated by NMSU to help serve the communities in sustainable high desert gardening. Visit the Sandoval Extension Master Gardeners for Questions on Gardening, Horticulture and More.
Cooperative Extension provides plant diagnostic and agricultural insect identification services for the people of Sandoval County. Please contact SEMG or the Cooperative Extension Office at (505) 867-2582 to arrange drop-off, or contact the Master Gardener helpline to make arrangements at emailhelpline@sandovalmastergardeners.org. Please complete the Plant Specimen Submission Form (PDF) ahead of time. Please provide photos if possible, as many times identification can be made from photos.
Samples will be accumulated to be shipped weekly on Mondays. We request samples fit in no larger than a 9 x 12 USPS padded envelope.
NMSU no longer provides soil testing. Colorado State University has generously agreed to provide soil test analysis for New Mexico. For information, cost and instructions to mail your sample contact them here: Soil, Water and Plant Testing Lab.
LAS CRUCES, N.M. – Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has proclaimed 2026 as the “National Year of the Woman in Agriculture” throughout the state, underscoring the essential role women play in agriculture, food systems and rural communities in New Mexico.
View a recent NMSU News article about our award-winning FCS Extension Agents, including Sandoval County's own Madeline Gurney, BSE, MSE!
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