MSU Teton County Extension is involved in a variety of community development efforts to strengthen the social, economic and environmental well-being of communities and address community development issues identified by residents.

Topics Include:

  • Community strategic visioning
  • Local governance
  • Leadership development training
  • Community tourism assessment and development
  • Economic and business development
  • Community profiling
  • Conflict management and resolution
  • Community surveys.

In Teton County, the Horizons program was an 18-month project aimed at building leadership skills and reducing poverty in our rural communities.  The Horizons program involved study circles, LeadershipPlenty® training, visioning and action phases.  The Horizons program resulted in four action items for the Choteau community.  Of those action items, Opportunities for All Scholarship, Inc. and Neighbors Helping Neighbors have had sustained and documented impact in the community. 
Using the Horizons program as a launching pad, Fairfield developed, with the assistance of MSU Extension, a 2020 Vision Plan.  The community, through discussion and volunteerism, chose four main areas of emphasis that included jobs, industry and business; housing and retirement; community and services; and tourism.  A few new businesses have located in Fairfield and an assisted living facility has been built.
For more information regarding community development, please contact our office at [email protected].