Hard-boiled eggs are a nutritious powerhouse—great for breakfasts, salads, and on-the-go snacks. But let’s be honest: peeling them doesn’t always go as planned—especially when they’re fresh from the farm. The fresher the egg, the tougher it can be to peel due to a tighter bond between the egg white and the shell membrane. Thankfully, there are a few simple steps you can follow to make perfect boiled eggs with shells that practically slide off.

The Union County Extension and the Tennessee Department of Forestry are hosting a hands-on Apple Grafting Workshop on Wednesday, April 2, from 10 a.m. to noon at Chuck Swan State Forest in Sharps Chapel. This workshop is designed for adults interested in learning how to graft apple trees and will provide participants with the opportunity to take home at least three trees they graft themselves.

With egg prices on the rise, many Union County families are looking for creative ways to stretch their budgets without sacrificing their favorite recipes. While eggs are a kitchen staple for everything from baking to breakfast, there are several affordable substitutes you can use in your cooking and baking. Whether you’re trying to save money, accommodate dietary needs, or simply out of eggs, these alternatives can keep your meals on track.

Do you have a child that loves spending time outdoors? Exploring, hiking, biking, climbing trees, playing with bugs, fishing, birding, orienteering—anything, as long as they can be outdoors. We are blessed to live in an area with an abundance of absolutely beautiful mountains, forests, rivers, lakes, parks and trails to explore; and exploring is one of our favorite 4H Outdoor Adventure project group activities.

The Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program cost share program will be accepting applications October 1-7. This program, established in 2005, has helped farmers in Union County and across the state of Tennessee. More than $1.27 million has been invested in 424 producer projects from 2005 through 2023 in Union County. Each TAEP dollar generates $6.55 in local economies.

Attention Beef Cattle Farmers: UT Extension Union County is excited to announce that we will be hosting the Tennessee Master Beef Producer Program this October and November. This comprehensive educational initiative is designed to help Tennessee cattle producers enhance the profitability of their cow-calf operations.

In 1918 the two Extensions Agents Kyker and Miller organized the first Union County Fair. It was supported by the County Commission who donated $1,000. The County Commission only supported the fair for one year. They traveled to Knoxville for the District Exhibition and competitions. This was a big deal for the 4-H members and the women of the Home Demonstration Clubs. Most had never traveled outside the county.
Agents had to travel by horse and buggy to the various communities.

Union County Extension is thrilled to announce that Van Richardson has won multiple awards at the 2024 Tennessee State Junior Beef Show this June!
These are spectacular accomplishments that are literally years in the making. Winning a Grand Champion award requires commitment, dedication, and perseverance. Winning a Grand Champion award 4-H member bred and raised the animal is amazing. Van’s hard work, dedication, and passion for the beef industry have truly paid off. At this prestigious event, he showcased exceptional talent and skill, earning accolades that reflect his commitment to excellence.

Union County Extension will be hosting a Backyard Chicken Class.
Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, this class is for you! Learn everything you need to know about raising healthy chickens in your own backyard to sell or consume yourself.

“Take a Country Road” to UT Extension Union County, 3925 Maynardville Highway, on Wednesday, September 29, and bring your best pie to enter the Union County Heritage Festival Pie Baking Contest.
UT Extension Union County will host the pie contest. Alyshia Victoria, Food and Consumer Science Agent, will be the coordinator.
Fruit, nut, and other are the categories. Winning pie bakers will receive cash prizes and ribbons.