Add engaging with local Cooperative Extension to list of New Year resolutions

Over the years, I have been fortunate to have several opportunities to cover events and ongoing efforts taking place at our local Cooperative Extension Office. Trust me when I say there is a lot going on at the Whitley County co-op office, and I like to encourage folks whenever I get the chance to take the time to look into the programs that are being offered.

The Whitley County Cooperative Extension, which is based in Goldbug, offers agriculture, horticulture, family and consumer sciences, 4-H and community arts programs. Each branch of the co-op has its own team of agents who are responsible for overseeing activities and engaging with the local community.

In 2023, I had the opportunity to take an in-depth look at Whitley County’s 4-H youth development program for National 4-H Week in October. I also got to interview some of the fine folks who host various community arts programs for a Senior Living cover feature, and last spring I got to cover a special small farms conference that was hosted at the co-op office.

Last week, I received another great opportunity to learn more about Cooperative Extension offerings when Horticulture Agent Ben Prewitt came to speak at the Corbin Rotary Club’s regular lunch meeting at David’s Steakhouse.

This was good timing for me personally, as I will almost certainly be calling on Ben between now and the spring to get some pointers on the best methods to grow peppers. I have never been much of a gardener, but I have decided that I want to try my hand at growing some sweet peppers this year, as I enjoy eating them on almost a daily basis.

Prewitt brought with him a copy of the agriculture/horticulture department’s latest newsletter, which contains a list of upcoming classes and learning opportunities. There are classes on beekeeping basics, a guide to beginning gardening, hunter education courses and a cheese making demo, just to name a few.

When speaking to the Rotary Club, Prewitt encouraged anyone and everyone to take advantage of the many programs being offered by the Cooperative Extension. “Utilize us,” he said. “We want people in the community to know that we are here to help, and that the services we offer are already paid for with their tax dollars.”

Prewitt said that his job, and the job of his fellow agents at the Cooperative Extension, is to “bring research based education and opportunities to the community.”

If I were you, I would strongly consider taking him up on his offer. For more information, visit the Whitley County Cooperative Extension Office online at www.whitley.ca.uky.edu or call (606) 549-1430.