MSU Extension Alcona County

A message from the district director

This annual report is a summary of the work that MSU Extension has done in Alcona  County to help people improve their lives through an educational process that brings the vast knowledge and resources of Michigan State University to local communities in northeast Michigan. In the following pages, you will discover the stories of progress, resilience, and empowerment that have defined our engagement with individuals, families, and organizations across District 4. From cultivating sustainable agriculture practices to nurturing the potential of our youth through 4-H programs, each achievement is a testament to the dedication of our team and the unwavering support of our communities. We could not do this work without local partners in community government, local volunteers and supporters, or people who turn to us for the information and education
that we provide. Please continue to use us as a resource for information and ask us questions. Thank you for your support in 2023 and beyond.

Impact at a glance

• 151 programs attended by Alcona county residents
• 14 soil samples from Alcona county processed
• 75 health & wellness program participants
• 26 residents attended food safety programs
• 431 residents served by SNAP-Ed 
• 66 answers from Ask Extension for Alcona residents
• 132 agriculture program participants
• 202 youths enrolled in 4-H 

2,441 total Alcona county residents participated in MSU Extension programming in 2023. 

4-H children & youth 

Michigan 4-H is growing current and future leaders. The largest youth development organization in Michigan, 4-H provides thousands of young people with experiential learning opportunities to explore new interests and discover their passion. While learning about the world around them, youth gain valuable life skills such as responsibility, citizenship, teamwork, and problem solving. In2023, 1,723 Alcona County youth  participated in 51 programs.

Health & Nutrition 

Through MSU Extension’s nutrition and physical activity programming, Michigan adults, families, and children gain crucial knowledge about nutrition and healthy foods, increase their daily activity, and improve their food security. In 2023, 99 Alcona County residents participated in 18 health and nutrition programs.

Stewardship of natural resources

Our natural resources programs improve public understanding, help landowners and communities use those assets for sustainable long-term social and economic development and conserve natural resources for future generations. In 2023, 870 Alcona County residents participated in local and regional natural resources programs including the Wild About Conservation Webinar and Michigan Birding 101.