Since working with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, I have been in awe of our County Extension Agents. \u00a0Most often their hours align with famer’s hours – sunrise to sunset (and if they are between those times, red bull drinks are always in their hands). They love their community, they love agriculture, and they love the people that embody both of those things. \u00a0They are the heartbeat of Texas agriculture. \u00a0What they do for their job, how they do their job, where they do their job absolutely amazes me. \u00a0That said, I wanted to learn more about our County Extension Agents – I wanted to learn why they do this job.<\/p>\n
I have started a new blog series called “Meet a County Extension Agent” and I hope you enjoy getting to meet these incredible folks as much as I have.<\/p>\n
Our October issue features Michael Palmer, Coleman County Extension Agent. \u00a0Mr. Palmer is a one-of-a-kind agent, and in my opinion he just gets it<\/em>. \u00a0He is open-minded, willing to learn, willing to work hard, and makes everybody feel like they are contributing toward a bigger purpose.<\/p>\n Meet Mr. Michael Palmer:<\/p>\n Why did you become a County Extension Agent? \u00a0<\/strong>I have always had an interest in agriculture and have been involved in farming and livestock operations with my family since childhood.\u00a0 I knew I wanted a career in agriculture and the opportunities that Extension offers only enhance the desire to be involved in agriculture.\u00a0 I like the diversity that being a county Extension agent offers; things are always changing.<\/em><\/p>\n What are some concerns specific to agriculture in your county?\u00a0<\/strong>Coleman County is a diverse county made up of range and pasture, as well as cultivated land.\u00a0 Agriculture is a key industry here.\u00a0 Many producers continually conduct brush control, as it is a never-ending issue with undesirable and invasive plants.\u00a0 Predator control is another issue landowners face; specifically wild hogs.\u00a0 Coleman County has a large number of sheep and goat producers who, along with the wildlife industry, face challenges with predation caused by coyotes and bobcats.\u00a0Many farmers are currently facing challenges with low wheat prices and high input costs.\u00a0 Alternative crops have been looked at but no silver bullet has been found.<\/em><\/p>\n