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OSU Extension presents 2024 results and 2025 plans to Lucas County commissioners; highlights SNAP-Ed, Master Gardeners, youth programs
Summary
OSU Extension staff gave a county update March 12, reporting 2024 program statistics — including 7,300 people reached through SNAP-Ed/FNP programming and 3,000 horticulture hotline contacts — and previewed 2025 activities such as Master Gardener training, spotted lanternfly outreach, and youth workforce partnerships.
OSU Extension representatives briefed the Lucas County Board of Commissioners March 12 on 2024 accomplishments and 2025 programming, citing SNAP-Ed, 4-H, Master Gardener volunteer work and new partnerships.
Megan Arnold, area leader, introduced staff and summarized extension activities in Lucas and neighboring Wood County. The presentation highlighted research-based community education, first-time homebuyer counseling, horticulture and pest advice, and youth workforce initiatives.
Arnold and other staff gave the board several 2024 metrics: 7,300 individuals reached through SNAP-Ed and Family Nutrition Programming (FNP); 3,000 direct horticulture hotline contacts; 22 residents assisted with homebuyer education and pre-purchase counseling; roughly 165 hours of in-school and summer programming serving 571 youth; and 20–35 active Master Gardener volunteers with new trainee cohorts underway.
Speakers emphasized spotted lanternfly outreach as a regional priority, noting collaboration with Michigan State University and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Extension staff also described programs that connect youth to agriculture and workforce development, including participation in the Urban Youth Agriculture Initiative (Senate Bill 111) in partnership with Central State University and local partners such as Urban Holistics.
Commissioners thanked the extension staff and raised concerns about federal and state funding uncertainties for SNAP-Ed and other programs. Staff noted federal and state funding under the Smith-Lever Act and related federal grant programs—some budgets could affect programming if reduced.
Arnold said Extension will continue Master Gardener training, AmeriCorps hosting, and community nutrition work, and that staff and volunteers are working with Metro Parks Toledo, Toledo-Lucas County Public Libraries, school districts, and other partners to deliver services across the county.
The briefing was informational; no formal board action was requested.
