Marion County Extension & 4-H Service District
The district's purpose is to build a stronger economy by fostering successful agriculture and forestry businesses; healthy youth and families; sustainable communities; and natural resources with education services including:
- Applied research for farmers, family forest owners, and nursery growers to solve disease, insect, production and conservation challenges.
- Volunteer-lead programs, such as 4-H, after-school, camps, Master Gardener, Master Food Preserver, food safety, nutrition, Master Woodland Manager, and Master Naturalist.
- Small farm development for food supply, community and school gardens, farmers markets, and agritourism.
Marion County Small Farm Loop
- Noxious weed management to protect city and rural watershed health.
- Wildfire Preparedness - learn about wildfire preparedness in Marion County through the Fire Aware. Fire Prepared. Webinar Series
Out There. Working in Marion County
On May 19, 2015, Marion County voters approved the formation of the Marion County Extension and 4-H Service District, which established a property tax rate of $0.05 per $1,000 assessed value to fund Extension programs. The district serves all 20 incorporated cities, as well as the unincorporated areas of Marion County and works in cooperation with Oregon State University Extension Service to bring important services and supports to local residents. (
Feasibility Study)
District Governance
The Marion County Board of Commissioners serves as the governing board for the district as directed by state statute (ORS 451.485). Community Services Department Director Chris Eppley serves as the District Administrative Officer and Budget Officer. In addition, financial, legal, clerical, treasurer, and procurement services are provided by county positions.
The annual budget and completed audit are available to the public.
Public Meetings Notice
All meetings are held at 555 Court St NE, 5th Floor, Commissioner's Board Rm
2023 Service District Meetings:
Thursday, March 23, 2023 - 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Tuesday, May 2, 2023 - 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Thursday, June 22, 2023 - 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Thursday, August 31, 2023 - 4:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Thursday, October 26, 2023 - 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM
2023 Budget Committee Meeting:
Tuesday, May 2, 2023 - 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Public Hearing:
Thursday, June 22, 2023 - 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM
District Contact
Marion County Community Services
Chris Eppley, Director
555 Court Street NE, Suite 3120
Salem, OR 97301
(503) 588-7975
ceppley@co.marion.or.us
OSU Extension and 4-H Services
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Find Us
Office Location:
555 Court Street NE, St 3120
Salem, OR 97301
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