No two communities are the same. Each has its own needs, challenges, and opportunities. Montana State University Extension agents work across the state to understand what matters most locally. Working alongside campus-based specialists and community partners, MSU Extension agents develop and share unbiased, research‑based education and programs that improve lives and communities.

HOW DOES MSU EXTENSION SERVE YOUR COMMUNITY?

Since our founding in the early 1900s, MSU Extension has supported communities through education, consultation, research, facilitation and so much more. Reliability, responsiveness, and relationship-building are defining traits of MSU Extension professionals and our work. Here are just a few of the ways we support Montanans:

  • We engage with farmers and ranchers by providing pesticide education, nitrate testing, and plant and insectdiagnostics. In 2025, the MSU Extension Schutter Diagnostic Lab conducted 2,307 plant disease, insect,mushroom, and abiotic diagnoses, saving producerstens of thousands of dollars.
  • Our 4-H program meets the need of Montana’s youth,supporting more than 14,000 members with opportunities to learn and grow in a positive environment.
  • To address the growing needs of caregivers serving the elderly, the Respite Retreat Program provided morethan 3,600 hours of respite and hundreds of boxes ofhealthy food across 30 counties and tribal areas.
  • The Big Sky, Big Leadership program has servedmore than 400 participants with 13,000 cumulative hours of training. This program helps participantsbuild networks, foster collaboration, and drive localeconomic growth.

Extension professionals continually develop programs and resources, proactively responding to critical issues. A recent example is the work of MSU Extension Beef Specialist Megan Van Emon, who is providing livestock producers with guidance on how to address the New World Screwworm (NWS) outbreak. Following the first confirmed infestation in the U.S. since 1966, Van Emon curated a statewide webinar working alongside faculty at New Mexico State University. The presentation occurred less than 48 hours after confirmation of NWS and provided dozens of MSU Extension agents and producers with critical guidance. While NWS is currently hundreds of miles from Montana, producers are now more prepared to respond.

Student operating a drone controller during an outdoor educational field activity with other students nearby.

Photo: Stephanie Davidson

IMPACTFUL PARTNERSHIPS ACROSS MONTANA

Another hallmark of MSU Extension work is the partnerships we develop. Our agents, specialists and staff work alongside farmers, business leaders, youth, teachers, and countless others to develop and deliver educational programs and empower local decision-making. We accomplish this by building and sustaining partnerships, and recognizing the value that others bring to the table, no matter what the task.

A successful MSU Extension partnership example is the work of our community vitality team. Earlier this summer, they partnered with the Montana Community Foundation, Wells Fargo, and several others to host the inaugural Rural Summit in Townsend, attracting nearly 150 attendees. Their goal was to celebrate the successes of rural communities, explore innovation and collaboration, and develop action plans that address previously identified gaps in volunteerism and leadership. The positive results of this event and other MSU Extension community vitality programs demonstrate the value of local and statewide partnerships.

Researcher examining a plant specimen at a laboratory workstation equipped with a microscope and monitoring equipment.

Photo: MSU Photography

HOW TO CONNECT WITH US OR JOIN OUR TEAM

Our Extension agents serve as a bridge to countless MSU resources and expertise in your community. The best way to learn more about the educational opportunities and resources we offer is to connect with your local MSU Extension agent. To locate or contact an office near you, visit montana.edu/extension/localoffices.html.

Are you exploring career options? Extension professionals have diverse backgrounds and educational experiences that benefit our organization and the people we serve. If you believe your skillset would be an asset to your community and are interested in working alongside us, we may have an opportunity for you. To explore career opportunities with MSU Extension, visit the careers tab on our website.


John Hawley is the Director of Communications for MSU Extension.