MSU Extension reports 2025 activities: 4‑H enrollment up, resources for beginning farmers published

Kai Gritter, interim district director for MSU Extension, presented the 2025 annual report and thanked the board for funding that supports research‑based local programs. He said MSU Extension reached more than 1,400 Cass County adults through more than 350 programs, with 72 programs hosted locally and substantial virtual participation.

Gritter highlighted that the local 4‑H program enrolled 616 youth and that MSU Extension supported 183 volunteers. A 4‑H coordinator described new spin clubs and classroom embryology projects that engaged students and families. Gritter also noted the SNAP‑Ed program lost funding nationally last year, resulting in layoffs that affected staff locally.

John LaPorte described a Beginning Farmer resource guide developed with USDA and industry partners; the 600‑page guide is published online and has been accessed hundreds of times. Extension staff emphasized the availability of chapter downloads, workshops, and technical assistance that support local agriculture and agribusiness.

Commissioners thanked extension staff and asked follow‑up questions about program reach and resources.