UC ANR South Coast and Desert Research and Extension Centers

The University of California, Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) connects the power of UC research with local communities. Its research efforts in agriculture, natural resources, nutrition and youth development are linked through nine Research and Extension Centers located in important California ecosystems, that each support research projects and educational events.

New Engagement Centers at UC ANR’s South Coast (Irvine) and Desert (El Center) Research and Extension Centers are becoming premier destinations for agriculture and natural resource education, industry collaborations and community engagement. The facilities include a combination of indoor event and classroom space, outdoor demonstration gardens and landscapes, and support uses.

The planning process for the new facilities involved extensive facilitated discussions with both UC ANR leadership and Planning Committees (staff, program leaders and public/private partners). Each new facility now has a plan with visions that support UC ANR’s overall mission; identifies desired programs and activities; includes conceptual designs for new facilities and site improvements; and provides detailed Design Guidance Packages that UC ANR also used to support fundraising.