The ever-evolving coronavirus/COVID-19 situation has prompted additional changes to Penn State Extension programming and operations across Pennsylvania, as well as other public services offered by Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences. The college's research - conducted through its nine academic departments and at its research and Extension centers across the state - will continue in support of Pennsylvania agriculture, the state's food system, and the well-being of citizens in the commonwealth. Steps are being taken to safeguard the health and safety of the Extension's personnel, partners, and collaborators, according to Steven Loerch, the college's senior associate dean. The college also continues its educational mission through remote teaching of undergraduate and graduate courses.
Penn State Extension had announced previously that all public, in-person events it sponsors, including workshops, conferences, and meetings, through April 5 would be canceled, postponed, or moved online. These cancellations and postponements now have been extended through Friday, May 15. Registered event participants will be notified of cancellations and will receive refunds if they paid registration fees.
Although the organization is limiting face-to-face programs, Extension educators are shifting to provide extensive educational programs and information at https://extension.psu.edu. Educators will continue on-farm visits and research, while following disease-control guidelines to minimize risk. These producer consultations and collaborative research projects are undertaken in support of what the state of Pennsylvania has designated as essential agricultural businesses, including farms, food processors, and grocers, which are critical in maintaining the food supply and are considered life-sustaining.
In accordance with Gov. Tom Wolf's executive order concerning closures, Penn State Extension offices in all 67 counties are closed until further notice. However, county-based educators and staff will continue working remotely.
Residents who have questions or need assistance may call 877-345-0691. In addition, information about county Extension offices can be found on the previously mentioned website. County office webpages contain a directory with contact information for individual educators and staff members, who can assist, in many cases, by email or phone.
The college will continue to provide other critical services, but with modified services, staffing or formats. The services include Penn State Animal Diagnostic Laboratory, Agricultural Analytical Services Laboratory, Spotted Lanternfly Call Center, Plant Disease Clinic, 4-H youth development programs, and Penn State Berkey Creamery. Readers may obtain details of changes by visiting the aforementioned website. Penn State Meats Laboratory, which ordinarily has weekly public sales during the spring and fall semesters, is closed until further notice, and the lab's annual Easter ham sale was canceled.
Leave a Review