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UW Extension warns of potential SNAP-Ed (FoodWIse) cut; announces summer interns and youth garden program
Summary
Richland County Extension staff told the committee that proposed changes in federal reconciliation legislation could eliminate SNAP-Ed (FoodWIse) funding and put a local position at risk; staff also introduced two summer interns and outlined a new youth-led community garden and other summer programs.
Extension staff told the committee that a provision in recent federal reconciliation activity could eliminate SNAP-Ed funding — the program known in Wisconsin as FoodWIse — and that a local FoodWIse position could be affected if the change becomes final.
"The bill eliminates SNAP-Ed funding. And SNAP-Ed funding is what's on FoodWIse in the state of Wisconsin," an extension educator told the committee, noting the legislative language has passed in the House and is awaiting action in the Senate. Staff emphasized the change is not final and the county may learn more as the Senate process proceeds.
Separately, Extension announced two summer interns funded through university and local grants after an anticipated AmeriCorps placement fell through. The interns, introduced to the committee, are Autumn Carter (UW–La Crosse, psychology major) and Isaiah Currier (senior, university name given in remarks); both are Richland County 4‑H alumni and will support county 4‑H programming this summer.
Extension also described a new youth-led community gardening program planned at the Smart Farm in partnership with the farmer’s market and other local groups. Staff said the program aims to teach gardening from seed to market, offer field trips to the farmer’s market, and allow youth to sell or donate produce; Extension noted potential partners for distribution could include the local food pantry or senior centers.
Staff asked county board members to consider supporting increased state land‑conservation staffing funding discussed elsewhere in the meeting and to provide any local partner suggestions for Extension’s community programs.
Speakers included extension staff (identified by role during remarks) and the two interns who introduced themselves by name and university affiliation.
