In Wisconsin, for example, Extension supports the state Department of Natural Resources Self-Help Monitoring Program by providing assistance with publishing and distributing materials for volunteers, publicizing the program, and recruiting volunteers. In 1989, Extension established a program of National Initiatives to focus its resources on issues of immediate concern. Through the Water Quality Initiative, every state now has a Water Quality Coordinator, who is the best person to talk to if you are interested in exploring the potential for a partnership with Extension. A free national directory of State Extension Water Quality Coordinators is available from USDA Extension Service, Ag. Box 0914, Washington DC 20250-0914.
Extension works in four-year planning cycles.
This may seem like a long time to wait - but according to Marcia Morreira, program and staff development specialist at Rhode Island Cooperative Extension, now is actually an excellent time to get started. Each state is just now beginning to plan for the next cycle, a process that includes assessing the needs for various programs. In determining these needs, Extension relies on input from representatives from academic institutions, local and state agencies, businesses, and community groups - in short, from any group that has an interest in a particular program. There certainly is a place for volunteer groups to participate in this process. Each state's Extension program is different, with priorities driven by that state's specific needs.