MSU Extension Gratiot County

In 2018 and 2022, Gratiot County residents voted to maintain the research-proven education provided by Michigan State University (MSU) Extension in local communities!

On August 4, 2026, Gratiot County residents again will be asked to decide to continue investment that helps families, businesses and professionals gain the knowledge they need to be healthy and safe, to do their jobs better, to build strong communities, protect local environments and help young people gain the confidence and skills needed to be successful.  

MSU Extension programs in Gratiot County help reduce the cost of public investment in health care and other governmental remediation services and increase the resources of families and local communities.

Gratiot County residents receive at least $3, and often more, in return value for every $1 the county invests in MSU Extension programs.

Empowering & Equipping Youth Success

Sixty-eight percent of Gratiot County 4-H seniors graduating between 2012 and 2017 enrolled in college after high school compared to 48.5% of area youth aged 18 to 24. 4-H participation has proven to help youth build the skills needed for future success.

• In 2025, Gratiot County MSU Extension 4-H programs engaged 870 Gratiot County youth aged 5 to 19 in 4-H special interest, short-term and club virtual learning opportunities that helped youth develop new skills and interests across a myriad of topics. 

Educating for Greater Farm Profitability

Gratiot County producers continue to manage thousands of heads of cattle including over 30,000 dairy cows, and Gratiot County farms planted 290,400 acres of field crops that produced 19.6 million bushels of corn, wheat, soybeans and oats in 2021 (U.S. Department of Agriculture, National Agricultural Statistics Service, County Estimates, 2021). Gratiot County is the sixth highest value market for crop and livestock production in Michigan.

• Access to evidence-based information is critical when business decisions depend on it. MSU Extension is a leader in discovering knowledge and helping farmers apply tested solutions that benefit their farms, their families and their communities. Gratiot County MSU Extension educators provided access to articles, webinars and timely social media posts designed to help producers manage the challenges of coronavirus disruptions to agriculture, prepare for tax season and manage the ongoing financial and business planning needed for farming.
• MSU Extension dairy experts provide Gratiot County dairy farmers with current research and knowledge on animal handling, antibiotic use and animal nutrition. Staff members consult to help farmers check milking protocols, assess feeding systems and provide financial assessment and advice related to farm management practices.

Building Strong Financial Capability

Gratiot County MSU Extension educational programs help people learn to both build and grow entrepreneurial enterprises and manage their personal and household finances effectively to improve their financial health and well-being.

• Gratiot County staff provide one-on-one and group education for residents seeking support in preparing for homeownership, managing risk of and avoiding foreclosure, handling credit card debt, and investing for their future and the future of their children.

Helping Families Make Healthy Decisions

MSU Extension provides a variety of educational supports to help individuals and families needing food assistance learn how to make the most of their food dollars and safely prepare meals that are both healthy and tasty.

MSU Extension is eager to continue serving Gratiot County residents in strong partnership with the County Board of Commissioners. By working together, MSU Extension can continue to help people improve their lives by bringing the vast knowledge resources of MSU directly to individuals, families, businesses and communities.