MSU Extension Survived Elimination but Faces Major Cuts
In a Fact Finder Report this fall we told you MSU Extension was in danger of being eliminated as a way to save the state money.
That would have also ended the dozens of programs the agency oversees like 4H.
That didn't happen but the new reality isn't rosy.
A viewer wanted to know what happens now; the details are tonight's Fact Finder Report.
MSU Extension has been educating people at the community level across the state for more than 150 years. And after surviving a close call this fall it can continue to do that. But saving the agency came at a cost.
Jim Wiesing, MSUE Director for Grand Traverse County says, "Part of the price of not getting vetoed was to refocus extension on urban revitalization and green economy."
Diana asks, "We're in a rural area. What does that mean for us?"
Wiesing replies, "Yes, we're in a rural area and I would say it probably means that rural areas would receive a disproportionate amount of down sizing."
And the downsizing that will continue for the next 6-9 months has already begun with elimination of the 'Parents as Teachers' program. The futures of other programs like 4H are uncertain.
Wiesing says, "I honestly cannot tell to which programs will or will not exist in Northwest Michigan 6 months from now."
One of the reasons for the uncertainty is a shift in direction. MSUE historically tailored its programs around what each county needed with an office in each county. But now the state's focus on green economy and urban revitalization will take priority, and county offices will be consolidated into district offices. For example the ten counties of northwest Michigan would be covered by one office.
And that will mean significant layoffs.
Wiesing says, "I believe that there will be. We can't receive 50% less funding and not incur layoffs."
So while MSU Extension will continue to exist, it will not be the same agency. And all of these changes will take place quickly. Wiesing expects by late summer. He says there is time to try and save programs you want to continue. What do you think should be a priority? What do you think about the changes facing MSU Extension?
Leave your comments below.
