MSU Extension began an organization-wide effort to look at its programming and administrative structure in early 2009. The goal was to ensure that MSUE continues to remain responsive to the needs of Michigan's residents and makes the best use of resources.
The redesign effort was made public in the fall of 2009, and with input from stakeholders and decision makers from across the state, it is being launched in 2010. To learn more about the MSU Extension redesign effort, including the organization’s statewide program priorities and new district structure, please click here.
Grand Traverse MSUE
Grand Traverse County MSU Extension brings Michigan State University research based information to Grand Traverse County. We provide information and educational outreach on community and economic development, agriculture and horticulture, family and consumer sciences, parenting, youth devleopment, child safety, nutrition, Great Lakes environmental and ecological issues, and water quality.
What GTMSUE Offers
4-H is where adults help and support kids to explore and develop their potential. It's where kids and adults come together to share and expand their talents and interests. 4-H is helping kids take leadership for their lives and the decisions they make. It's where develop-mental assets are built and boys and girls can develop into responsible, caring citizens. 4-H is where families can experience hands-on activities in many interest areas. Extension 4-H staff provide an orientation to asset-based youth development principles and learning/teaching methods; training opportunities for adults and teens; research-based, age-appropriate learning materials; and support to 4-H club volunteers and others working with youth.
Agriculture programmingprovides educational opportunities and information that help clients in commercial agriculture, forestry, ornamentals and turf, home horticulture, and pest management. Main areas of activity include Integrated Pest Management, tree fruit production, support of Northwest Michigan grape and wine industry, farmer and public education on pesticide/fertilizer safety and use, pest, disease and plant diagnostics, Master Gardener programming, and more.
Due to rapid and persistent growth in our area, it is important to provide educational programs and technical assistance in community development and land use to insure the best possible future. Some programs offered include Citizen Planner, Affordable Housing, New Designs for Growth and Strategies for Organizational Success. Technical assistance provides strategic planning facilitation, community and organizational assessment and visioning processes.
Family and Consumer Science programs utilize research-based information to teach skills that will help families improve their quality of life. Areas of programming include: Nutrition and Food Safety, Parent Education and Family Resource Management.
The Michigan Groundwater Stewardship Program provides education, risk assessment and technical assistance to help reduce the risks of the groundwater contamination associated with pesticides and nitrogen fertilizer use. Both agricultural and residential outreach are available covering such topics as abandoned well closure; pesticide, fertilizer and petroleum management & storage; sprayer calibration; Clean Sweep (pesticide disposal); water screening; groundwater contamination investigations, Right To Farm inspections and agri-chemical spill assistance.
We offer Parents As Teachers, an education and support program designed to help parents be their child’s first, best teacher. This is done through home visits and playgroups as well as certified parent educators sharing ideas and activities, which help stimulate brain development and the promotion of strong attachments between parents and children.
Michigan Sea Grant is a cooperative program of MSU and the University of Michigan. The program supports Great Lakes research, education, and outreach. Field agents respond to a variety of Great Lakes and water resource concerns including recreational and commercial fisheries, boating and marinas, shoreline erosion, watershed management, zebra mussels and other invaders, coastal tourism, youth education and shipwreck protection.
Michigan Tourism Business is a publication of Michigan State University Tourism, Resource Center and Department of Park, Recreation and Tourism Resources.
Gardening Resources
For the best local information check with your local MSU Extension office, listed by county in the directory.
Master Gardener
The Michigan Master Gardener Program is a horticulture education and volunteer leader training program offered by Michigan State University Extension.
Ornamental Plants Plus
MSU Extension full text database on cultivars, diseases, and pests, management and planting. Very comprehensive.
MSU Diagnostic Center
From the Diagnostic Center, information on the kinds of tests they run, how to take them, and the costs.
MSU Gardens
Links to many of the gardens, some with virtual tours. You will need to scroll down to see the listing.
MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Thomas G. Coon, Director, MSU Extension, East Lansing, MI 48824. This information is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.
