WASHINGTON CO. EXTENSION AGENTS REFLECT ON NATIONAL AGRICULTURE WEEK

  

Farmers and ranchers across the United States are being commended for their contributions to local economies and communities during this National Agriculture Week.

Washington County Extension Agents Stephanie Rudolph and Kara Matheney spoke with KWHI about the importance of agriculture in everyday life, as well as how today’s youth are taking on the challenge of becoming the next generation of industry leaders.

Rudolph says the pillars of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension are 4-H and Youth Development, Agriculture and Natural Resources, and Family and Community Health.  Each of them are driven by agriculture.

AgriLife offers several events throughout the year to assist consumers, whether that be its spring and fall plant sales, the winter pecan show, and various educational programs and training courses.  It also has resources available to help local producers identify best management practices and sustainable solutions.

Education is a crucial element of agriculture in Washington County, with 500 youth enrolled in Washington County 4-H across nine clubs.  Those students take part in competitions throughout the year, such as the recently concluded Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, where 73 4-H members showed over 125 projects and many other members participated in contests like food challenge, livestock quiz bowl, livestock judging and horse judging.  The education does not stop for 4-Hers when school lets out, either, as they remain busy during the summer months with activities like food nutrition camps and ag tours with local producers.

Matheney says Washington County has robust beef and forage production, as well as poultry and swine, and she is thrilled to have a wealth of support from community members who share a goal of keeping the public informed and encouraging involvement.

To learn more about the Extension Service’s offerings, visit https://washington.agrilife.org.