Michigan State University Extension believes in improving people’s lives through education, and has been helping Genesee County residents for over 100 years. The most famous programs include 4-H and Master Gardener. 4-H is the largest youth-serving organization in Michigan, outside of K-12 formal education.
MSU Extension does many programs for physical and mental health, including Dining With Diabetes, Stress Less With Mindfulness, and tai-chi programs at senior centers. MSU Extension educates everyone from preschoolers to senior citizens on how to improve their health through good nutrition. MSU Extension works with parents and childcare givers on how to help young children.
If people are interested in growing their own food, there are many resources for home gardeners. If you want to preserve that food by canning, or want techniques for how to save money with your limited food dollars, MSU teaches classes.
MSU Extension partners with local groups to beautify and protect our environment. They partner with the Flint River Watershed Coalition to monitor our local streams with students. Master Gardeners create beautiful gardens at Crossroads Village, Easter Seals, local libraries, and rest areas. MSU Extension works with Edible Flint to turn vacant lots into sources of food and community vitality.
Farmers in Genesee County produce over $70 million worth of product every year. MSUE supports farmers with research on how to produce food and deal with new pests and protect the environment. Farmers on any scale, from those farming thousands of acres, to those working on an urban lot in Flint can benefit from these programs.
On August 2, 2022: MSU Extension is up for a millage of 0.08 mills. This would be a property tax of about $4 on a $100,000 home. Early voting starts on July 6. Every dollar brought in by this millage is matched 350% by state and federal dollars.
If you are interested in any of these programs, contact the Genesee County office at 810-244-8500.
