STARKVILLE, Miss. -- The Mississippi State University Extension Service’s cancellation of in-person educational meetings and events through August 1 does not affect events hosted by other organizations, which Extension personnel and clients may participate in.

All scheduled Extension face-to-face educational events and meetings through that date have been canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, Extension personnel regularly assist with events, meetings and activities for which the organization is not in charge of hosting, such as municipal conferences, association meetings and county fairs.

“Local shows, such as youth livestock competitions at county fairs, belong to the public. These events are typically controlled by local boards, associations, officers and other groups external to Extension, and these entities will decide if and when their activities will take place, not MSU Extension,” said Extension director Gary Jackson. “Our agents have been instructed to proceed as if these events are still taking place and continue in their supporting roles using the best safety practices.”

Though in-person events through August 1 will not take place, Extension personnel will continue to conduct educational events, meetings and trainings via technology, such as teleconferencing and webinars. Extension personnel can also provide one-on-one consultations for clients, if social distancing is practiced.

Paula Threadgill, associate Extension director for 4-H, said a possible rescheduling of this year’s State 4-H Horse Show, which is an Extension-hosted event and was originally scheduled for June, is under evaluation.

“Our hearts go out to each 4-H’er whose life has been disrupted because of COVID-19. We know that everyone has worked so hard this year to prepare for events that may not happen, due to circumstances beyond our control,” said Threadgill. “Please know that we are working on options to keep 4-H’ers on track, as much as possible, to achieve their goals. We look forward to the day we can all gather again to celebrate their accomplishments.”

These guidelines are subject to change at any time as circumstances related to COVID-19 fluctuate.

MSU Extension offers a wide range of educational resources related to COVID-19, including publications, videos and media releases at http://extension.msstate.edu/coronavirus.