Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Michigan State University's leadership has made the decision to modify or suspend youth events scheduled to take place this summer on MSU’s campus, according to an April 3 letter posted online from Jeff Dwyer, director of MSU Extension.

He went on to say they are working with Michigan Fairs and Exhibitions as their members determine how this will affect county fairs, and more information would be coming.

The letter said, “This, combined with Gov. [Gretchen] Whitmer’s announcement that in-person K-12 instruction is suspended for the remainder of the academic year, has informed changes to our guidance to MSU Extension’s youth programming."

All on-campus MSU youth events scheduled to occur before Sept. 1 must be modified to an online space, postponed or canceled.

No face-to-face youth events or programs may take place anywhere in the state, including summer camps, until Sept. 1. This also includes MSU Extension youth programming at the Detroit Partnership for Food, Learning and Innovation; MSU Tollgate Farm and Conference Center; Summer Discovery Cruises and other programs throughout the state.

Guidance regarding all MSU Extension events, including youth and adult programming, is forthcoming.

The letter said, “Although this is the right thing to do to protect the health and wellness of our staff and all Michiganders, I know this is heartbreaking to many. I also know that there may never be a more important time for us to think differently about how we deliver meaningful experiences to youth and volunteers who are seeking information and education.

"The supplemental education we can offer through our youth programming is critical. For example, leadership is going to work with educators and program coordinators throughout the state to determine if they can conduct 4-H Exploration Days online or through a hybrid, on-demand model that mixes online education with local experiences. I encourage you to look for the same opportunities."

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