MSU Extension Alpena County

A message from the district director

I’m delighted to share the results of another successful year of partnership between Alpena County and Michigan State University (MSU) Extension. Because of your continued support, we’ve been able to make a difference in the lives of youth, families, businesses, and communities. MSU Extension offers a broad range of research-based educational outreach to county residents. Over this past year, we’ve empowered families and individuals to live healthier lives, supported new and local businesses, created opportunities for youth leadership development and career exploration, helped farmers with business management and mental health, and much more. We continue to provide outreach online, hybrid, as well as in-person formats. These options have increased accessibility to Michigan State University resources for your residents. Our staff live and work alongside county residents and are rooted in community relationships and responsive to community needs. Our partnership with you makes this all possible. On behalf of the MSU Extension team serving Alpena County, thank you for another great year. We look forward to your continued support and hope you will be able to join us during one of our upcoming programs.

• 153 programs accessed by residents
• 20,232 social media reach
• 4,233 online reach 
• 2,900 programming reach 

Alpena County 4-H 

The Alpena County 4-H Program connected with over 5000 youth through the 2022-2023 4-H program year. The program is home to over 200 enrolled youth & volunteers. The program partnered with over ten community partners, ranging from Pied Piper & Hinks Schools, to the Library & Green Stone Farm Credit Services. They participated in over six community events including hosting this year’s Spring Break Event with the local Optimist Club. This year we had over 60 new members enroll. Youth had over 20 local learning opportunities and hundreds of state & national opportunities. Alpena County 4-H events ranged from homemade ice cream making, life skills, ice fishing, barnyard first aid, summer camp, clinics, workshops, and Exploration Days on campus just to name a few. The agriculture side of 4-H continues to grow. The Alpena 4-H Program Coordinator dedicates time working Nationally to create professional development for others working with youth experiencing homelessness and poverty.

Supporting food and agriculture

Farm Management

Over $1.57 million in tax savings. 

Smart Gardening 

32,711 article views in 2023. 

Field Crop Programs

508,000 indirect; 11,565 direct. 

Beginning Farmer

772 participants; 6,071 accessed resources.