Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS, though traditionally called Home Economics) is the profession and field of study that deals with the economics and management of the home and community. In the Tri River Area this position covers many topics including: food safety, nutrition, wellness, Cottage Foods Act, food preservation, canning gauge testing and food systems work. To join our Family and Consumer Science mailing list, please email Ann.Duncan@colostate.edu and include your name, email address, and mailing address.

Contact the Agent

Ann Duncan, MS, RDN Family & Consumer Science Agent

Email: ann.duncan@colostate.edu
Phone: 970-249-3935

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Food Insecurity:

• Community Alliance for Hunger Relief and Education
  • We form partnerships unified under the goal of increasing the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables. To this end, we:
    • Increase community access to fruits and vegetables through our farm-to-foodbank program;
    • Change knowledge of and attitudes towards fresh produce by providing hands-on learning on our farm and in our teaching kitchen; and
    • Grow healthy communities by providing opportunities for civic service and supporting initiatives that work to decrease hunger and food insecurity.
    • Learn about volunteer opportunites and more by clicking here.

Food Preservation:

• Considerations to Preserving Food – Facebook Live
• Canning in Colorado 101 – Video
•  Water Bath Canning in Colorado – Video
•  Freezing Fruits and Vegetables – Video
• Canning Pressure Gauge Testing – in person.
  • Bring in your dial gauge pressure canner lids to one of our Tri River Area county offices. Cost is $10 per lid. Gauge accuracy will be tested and recommendations made regarding proper canning times and procedures. It is best practice to test your lid every year. This helps to ensure you are canning at the proper pressure to prevent botulism. Botulism is a rare, but serious disease associated with canned products. Information on botulism. 

 Food Safety:

• Food Safety Works:
  • Learn the basics of handling food safely and earn a 3 year certificate. This course is in compliance with Montrose, Delta, Ouray and Mesa County Health Departments. Take it online and on-demand by calling our office. 970-249-3935.
• Cottage Food Producers:
  • The Colorado Legislature passed the Cottage Foods Act that set food safety standards for small-scale, cottage food enterprises. To be in compliance with this act, individuals must take a food safety course to learn how to safely produce and handle food within the home and at the point of sale. Receive a 3 year certification today! For a list of online classes, look at Eventbrite and search CSU Extension Colorado Cottage Foods or click here.
• ServSafe:
  • Take the manager level certification in order to be in compliance with the Food Code and your local health department regulations.  This is a high level, nationally recognized program that prepares individuals for a career in hospitality or food service. See below for options and available testing dates. All classes and testing dates are available on first come basis and pre-registration is required.
  • Proctoring:
    • Upcoming classes:
      • August 4, 2022 Montrose @ 8:30 AM
        • Call and register 30 days in advance 970-249-3935
  • Additional classes and options:
    • ServSafe Info- Click here