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USU Extension tells Utah County commissioners about 70% bee colony loss, conservation studies and local programs
Summary
USU Extension presented its annual report, sought a $9,000 allocation for bee inspections after reporting '70% colony loss,' and highlighted horticulture trials, a sprinkler efficiency study and community programs including Master Gardener, 4‑H and SNAP‑Ed efforts.
Utah County commissioners heard the Utah State University (USU) Extension annual report and a small budget request tied to agricultural inspections and community programming.
Tuan Bettis, county director for USU Extension, said the county’s bee inspector "said that Utah County has experienced 70% colony loss," and requested $9,000 for 2026 — a $3,000 increase over the $6,000 allocated in 2025 — to cover more inspections and travel related to inspecting many new hives. Bettis also told commissioners USU Extension will hold steady on its operating budget and is coordinating a temporary office relocation with a July 1, 2026 target to vacate current space.
"For the money that we gratefully receive from the county, we are able to bring in grants and in-kind donations," Bettis said, noting extension staff leverage county funding to expand…
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