On August 4, 2026, Clare County residents will have the opportunity to vote on the MSU Extension Clare County millage. The 2026-2031 inclusive, 0.13-mill request will provide continued funding for MSU Extension educational programs, such as:
- 4-H
- Agriculture and Agribusiness
- Child and Family Development
- Health and Nutrition
- Master Gardener Volunteer Program
- Natural Resources
- Financial and Homeownership
FAQs
How much will the millage cost me?
The millage will cost a homeowner $0.13 for every $1,000 of taxable home value. For example, if you own a $100,000 home ($50,000 taxable value or SEV), you’ll invest $6.50 a year in taxes to support MSU Extension's educational programs for you, your family and your community.
What does a "yes" vote mean and what does a "no" vote mean?
A YES vote means that homeowners will experience about a $6.50 per year tax for every $100,000 of home value to continue to fund MSU Extension programs.
A NO vote means that there will not be county funding to match and secure the university's investment in the 100+ year partnership serving Clare County.
What can MSU Extension do for me?
We can empower your everyday goals, such as helping you grow your lawn or garden, try out meal ideas that are nutritious and budget friendly, learn how to manage stress, find educational and fun programs for your kids and more. We care about making your life and your community better.
Get started by exploring our upcoming events or by visiting the MSU Extension homepage to explore all the areas of our programming.
How does MSU Extension Clare County funding work?
MSU Extension is funded by a unique partnership with federal, state, and local governments in order to successfully meet the needs of Michigan communities. Clare County government has asked its constituents to fund the county portion of the partnership through a millage on the August 4, 2026, ballot.
What does the ballot language say?
For the purpose of sustaining 4-H youth development, agriculture, health and nutrition, horticulture, finance and homeownership, and other community education programs through Michigan State University Extension services within Clare County, shall the constitutional limitation imposed upon the total amounts of taxes which may be assessed in one (1) year upon the property within the County of Clare, Michigan be increased by up to 0.1300 of one (1) mill ($0.13 per $1,000.00 of state taxable valuation), for a period of six (6) years, from 2026 through 2031, inclusive?
MSU Extension Clare County: News and Stories
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The Great Lakes Forage and Grazing Conference returns for 2026
Published on February 16, 2026
Designed for farmers, students and agribusiness leaders, this year’s conference delivers hands-on knowledge, Michigan-based expertise and practical tools to strengthen forage operations. -
Danielle Schrock joins Michigan State University Extension consumer horticulture team in central Michigan
Published on December 15, 2025
Counties in northern central Michigan welcome Danielle Schrock to work with Extension Master Gardeners, home gardeners and other partners across the state. -
Bargy named 2025 Michigan 4-H Animal Science Youth Sportsperson of the Year
Published on December 11, 2025
Antrim County 4-H member Wyatt Bargy wins prestigious sportsmanship award for his involvement in 4-H animal science projects. -
Michelle Neff appointed to Michigan 4-H Foundation board of trustees
Published on November 24, 2025
Michelle Neff, Harrison, was appointed to the Michigan 4-H Foundation board of trustees at its October 3 annual membership meeting. -
Voters in Alcona, Clare, Iosco and Wexford counties to decide Aug. 4 on funding for MSU Extension and Michigan 4-H
Published on July 8, 2020
Millage funding for MSU Extension is on the Aug. 4 ballot in Alcona, Clare, Iosco and Wexford counties. -
MSU Extension Clare County: Proven education delivered locally to solve problems and increase opportunities
Published on June 12, 2020
MSU Extension empowers Clare County residents to do their jobs better, raise healthy and safe families, build strong communities, protect local environments and empower young people to not just dream but to pursue successful futures. -
Kid-friendly way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day
Published on March 6, 2017
Ideas to make your St. Patrick’s Day celebration family-friendly.