MSU Extension Roscommon County

A message from the District Director

This annual report is a summary of the work that MSU Extension has done in Roscommon 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

• 177 programs attended by Roscommon County residents
• 15 soil samples from Roscommon County processed
• 50 health & wellness program participants
• 18 residents attended food safety programs
• 162 residents served by SNAP-Ed
• 183 natural resources program participants
• 69 agriculture program participants
• 78 youths enrolled in 4-H 
• 708 total Roscommon County residents participated in MSU Extension programming in 2023

Program Highlights

Community, Food & Environment

In 2023, MSU Extension and the Roscommon County Economic Development Corporation teamed up to launch a year-long multi-phase, and countywide initiative designed to strengthen the county’s tourism industry by capitalizing on stakeholder knowledge, input, and first time visitor perspectives. The anticipated end date of the final phase is April 2024.

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, 183 Roscommon County residents participated in natural resources programs including MI Paddle Stewards, Teaching Great Lakes Literacy workshops, Michigan Conservation Stewards, Michigan Birding 101, nature walks, and more.

Agriculture & Agribusiness

The agriculture industry is developing and growing, contributing more than $104.7 billion annually to Michigan’s economy. MSU Extension works to increase farm success through workforce development opportunities, protecting the environment, ensuring food safety, reaching new markets, and advancing agriculture through applied research. In 2023, 69 residents from Roscommon County participated in agriculture and agribusiness programs.

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. In 2023, 452 Roscommon County youth participated in 15 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, 67 Roscommon County residents participated in 38 health and nutrition programs.