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Blaine County

Blaine County Extension and 4-H Use Technology During COVID-19 Pandemic

Published: 2020
By Julianne Snedigar
2020 has been a challenging year for everyone. Blaine County MSU Extension has adapted and embraced new technology to keep programming running smoothly. This year everyone has increased the use of technology to be successful. Virtual meetings, workshops and conferences have replaced travel and in-person activities. Blaine County MSU Extension worked closely with the Blaine County Commissioners and Information Technology Department to update the capabilities of the office and adjacent meeting room. This new technology has allowed Blaine County MSU Extension to organize events, meetings and activities virtually throughout the year. In addition, the Blaine County 4-H program has benefited from the new technology. Council meetings, 4-H project workshops, and 4-H club meetings were still able to happen online. In the past year, meeting attendance actually increased with the availability of virtual attendance. 4-H members could participate more without having to travel. In addition, for the first time, 4-H and FFA shows during the Blaine County Fair were broadcast live online. Families of youth participating were excited to be able to see the shows while they were unable to attend. The Blaine County Fair Youth Livestock Sale was also broadcast online for the first time ever. Sales to online bidders increased the sale average 15% over previous years averages. Many requests were made to continue an online sale option in the future. At some point things may return to “normal,” however, the technology use will remain and continue to benefit Blaine County constituents.
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