UF Extension Listens

Just in case you missed the listening session that was at the Extension office today in Hillsborough County  here is a simple online survey you can take to give UF Extension the input it seeks.  Below is a summary of what is going on and here is the link  https://ufaecd.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_5zsTd3yLMDDKDDC

To Our Extension Partners and Supporters:



The University of Florida IFAS is launching of a long‐range planning effort for Florida Extension. This effort is labeled Shaping Solutions for Florida’s Future.


Why are we engaging in this planning process?
1. Considering our state's budget situation, advancements in technology and emerging issues, it is time to
take a fresh look at our priorities.


2. The outcome will guide resource allocation within Extension in the future.


3. This is an opportunity to forge new partnerships in support of our programs.


What is the process?
Listening will be at the core of Extension’s long-range planning effort. Extension seeks to acquire diverse
viewpoints regarding the future of Florida and through careful analysis formulate priorities and operational
procedures to achieve a future where Extension contributes positively to Florida’s health and well‐being. And we need the input of our stakeholders, clientele, community leaders, advisory committees and faculty.
The purpose of the listening session is to develop a community vision by getting answers to the following
questions:


 What are the strengths of our community and what do we value about our community?


 What trends and issues are impacting our community?


 Which of these trends and issues represent the most significant threats to our community and what we value?


 Of these threatening trends and issues, which can/should be addressed through Florida Extension educational programs? What priority should be placed on each issue and concern?


 How do you think we should deliver these educational programs?


We truly hope you will participate in this listening session to help shape the future of Extension, not only in
Hillsborough County, but throughout the state of Florida.

Stormy Clouds on the Horizon...

If the economic turmoil is not enough for you, here is a report from Colorado State U. about the forecasted hurricane season.  In summary, Dr. Gray and his team are predicting a more active season than usual this year.  Their estimation is for activity to be 175% of  the normal hurricane season.  They also report about a 50-50 chance for a direct hit on the east coast of the US including Florida.  His team is predicting 16 named storms for this season including 9 hurricanes and 5 major storms (category 3-4-5 storms) for this season. A typical or "normal" season averages about 10 named storms, 6 hurricanes, and 2.3 major storms per year going back 50 years.  If you would like to peruse the actual report here is the link.  http://tiny.cc/cys8i

With this in mind make sure that you have a hurricane plan in place.  The season starts June 1, 2011.  Remember that hurricanes don't care when the start date of the season begins.  Check your generators, and your back ups, take inventory of equipment, chemicals, and nursery stock.  Print out your customer, employee, and accounting information prior to a storm and keep it in a safe place.