Extension is a 100-year-old partnership between the University and federal, state and county governments - providing scientific knowledge and expertise to the public. The University of Minnesota is one of the nation's more than 100 land grant colleges and universities with a mission to engage in teaching, research and extension. Through Extension, land grant institutions "extend" their resources to address critical public issues through non-formal, non-credit education.  Extension faculty and staff live and work across the state, in regional and county offices, University campuses, and research and outreach centers.