Colorado high school agriculture students Katelyn Huskins, Rye FFA; Adison Goldenstein, Holyoke FFA; and Tim Bedell, Oak Creek FFA were selected by the Colorado Section of the Society for Range Management to participate in the High School Youth Forum, an SRM sponsored youth activity held jointly during the 77th SRM annual meeting held in Sparks, Nev., on Jan. 28-Feb. 1, 2024.
Congratulations to all three Colorado delegates. These three outstanding agriculture students were selected to participate in the HSYF based on their high level of achievements in FFA range judging and plant identification over the past two years. Huskins was honored with first place for her presentation titled “Our Disappearing Rangeland.” Bedell received second place for his presentation titled “Smooth Brome: A Tolerable Invader?” Goldenstein’s paper was titled “Carbon Credits and Rangelands.”
All three of these Ag/FFA students said they enjoyed the forum and benefitted by interacting with 19 fellow students from all over the western United States who shared a common interest in the stewardship of rangelands. In addition to gaining valuable experience in writing and presenting a formal presentation these high school students gained exposure to the mechanisms of the SRM and the professionals and ranchers who make up its membership. Congratulations to these exceptional Colorado high school range management students on a job well done.
NECEB honors award recipients
A Feb. 6 ceremony at the Nebraska Association of County Extension Boards Annual Meeting honored 2023 award recipients for their commitment to supporting and promoting Nebraska Extension. The Nebraska Association of County Extension Boards, comprising more than 70 Extension boards and 550-plus members representing all 93 Nebraska counties, plays a crucial role in advocating for Extension’s success. Among the awardees, Curt Arens, editor of Nebraska Farmer, was honored with the “Outstanding Business” award and was acknowledged for fostering a strong relationship with Nebraska Extension through the magazine, providing a key platform for sharing Extension’s successes. Dan Stehlik, faculty member at Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture, received recognition for his dedication to youth and agricultural causes, particularly in Frontier County. He received the “Outstanding Advocate” award. Greg and Tammy Gass were honored with the “Outstanding Volunteer” award for more than 30 years of service as head sponsors for Citizenship Washington Focus in Cherry County, showcasing their commitment to civic engagement and education. Jerry Johnson, a former Nebraska state senator, Wahoo mayor, and current Extension board president in Saunders County, with a remarkable volunteer career spanning more than 60 years, was acknowledged with the “Friend of Extension” award for his longstanding support for Nebraska Extension. Mary Jo Leukenhoff, serving as the office manager in Cuming County for 45 years, was recognized with the “Outstanding Support Staff” award, demonstrating thoughtful and caring leadership. NACEB annually engages state senators, advocating for the University of Nebraska and showcasing successes and impacts of local Extension and 4-H programs. If interested in joining your county extension board and becoming a NACEB member, please contact your local county extension office. |
Dawes County 4-H recently welcomed Kylin Munger as its new Extension assistant.
Munger grew up ranching with her family north of Springview, Neb., part of the sixth generation on the place. She helped establish a new FFA chapter in high school and then attended Chadron State College for ag-business.
“Agriculture has shaped me into who I am,” Munger said. “I am looking forward to sharing my passion for agriculture and learning with the youth of Dawes County, but I am also so excited for the opportunity to meet people and get involved with the community.”
Munger moved from Springview after getting engaged and looked for a job where she could thrive and continue to work in agriculture. “Growing up, we didn’t have a lot of 4-H opportunities, so I’m excited to get to be a part of this organization.”
Munger will be ranching with her fiancé Drew Jerslid while also serving as the Dawes County 4-H assistant.