Most Iowa State University Extension in-person events throughout the state through May 31 have been canceled. However, ISU Extension remains committed to serving Iowans during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We still are open for business, and the health and safety of Iowans is our greatest concern,” says John Lawrence, vice president for Extension and outreach. “When possible, some group activities will be conducted virtually using video or teleconferencing. One-on-one meetings will be conducted by phone, by video conference, or if meeting in-person is essential, with appropriate distancing and precautions.”

For information on specific events, contact your ISU Extension county office. If the office is closed, leave a message and someone will get back to you as quickly as possible. Recent steps ISU Extension has taken to protect Extension staff, faculty and the public include the following.

Related: Complete coronavirus coverage

County Extension offices have temporarily closed their doors to the public, and staff are working remotely or on alternating days in the office to limit physical contact. Campus staff are working remotely as work functions allow. Educators are limiting in-person contact. Any group with an essential function that must meet in person may include no more than 10 people. Any 4-H livestock weigh-ins are canceled, and livestock ID for the Iowa State Fair is being adjusted.

“We are taking this opportunity to develop and engage in alternate ways of bringing research-based education to all Iowans,” Lawrence says. Extension throughout the state is available by phone, text, email and websites to answer questions and provide information and education. Check your county Extension office webpage for local news and contact information. ISU 4-H Youth Development has a wide variety of resources for at-home learning. These resources are continually updated and available to the public.

Various resources available

Resources are available to help families and communities dealing with the disruptions of COVID-19 cope with concerns about stress and relationships, personal finance, and nutrition and wellness. With limited face-to-face meetings and field days, many ISU Extension specialists will provide webinars or supplement their regular webinar series. For example, webinars from Iowa Learning Farms will allow timely education on issues related to water, soil, livestock, wildlife and other topics.

Human Sciences Extension and Outreach is offering a series of short virtual meetings to help couples thrive in this new reality. These meetings are facilitated by Extension specialists and feature curriculum developed by the National Extension Relationship and Marriage Education Network.

ISU Extension’s family finance program specialists are providing one-on-one financial conversations with Iowans. These financial educators are available to talk about options for revising a budget, prioritizing bills, paying down debt and connecting Iowans with community resources to stretch reduced incomes.

Get help by phone or websites

The Iowa Concern Hotline is available 24/7 for free, confidential support from trained staff. Email and live chat are also available. The AnswerLine is available for consumers with home and family questions.

Continue to check the ISU Extension and Outreach website for news about upcoming opportunities and educational offerings from Extension specialists. ISU Extension also is compiling research-based resources related to facing the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Visit the COVID-19 webpage often for updates. 

“We all have to do our part and be willing to change our plans for the greater good. We will get through this,” Lawrence says.

Source: ISU, which is solely responsible for information provided and is wholly owned by the source. Informa Business Media and all its subsidiaries are not responsible for any of the content in this information asset.