extension education in brazos county...

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The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating

Extension Education in Brazos County

2015

The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and its partners have long been dedicated to educating Texans. Extension education evolved nationwide under the 1914 federal Smith-Lever Act, which sought to extend university knowledge and agricultural research findings directly to the people. Ever since, Extension programs have addressed the emerging issues of the day, reaching diverse rural and urban populations. In Texas, all 254 counties are served by a well-organized network of professional Extension educators and some 100,000 trained volunteers. Extension expertise and educational outreach pertain to the food and fiber industry, natural resources, family and consumer sciences, nutrition and health, and community economic development. Among

those served are hundreds of thousands of young people who benefit annually from Extension’s 4-H and youth development programs. Texans turn to Extension education for solutions. Extension agents and specialists respond not only with answers, but also with resources and services that result in significant returns on the public’s investment. Extension programs are custom-designed for each region of the state, with residents providing input and help with program delivery. Here are just a few highlights of Extension impacts on this county and its people.

Brazos County – Summary of 2015 Educational Contacts

Total Educational Programs Conducted 814 Total Contacts from Educational Programming Efforts 397,642 Contact Hours via Educational Programs 48,463 Office Contacts 2,681 Site Visits 9,783 Phone Calls 12,310 Newsletter/Mail & E-Mail Contacts 328,015 Contacts by Volunteers 7,119 4-H Clubs 21 4-H Members 682 4-H Leaders 185 Radio and Television Appearances 48 News Releases 46 Cash and In-Kind Donations by $21,540

Brazos County Extension Supporters

AgriLifeExtension.tamu.edu

2015 Livestock and Forage Production in Brazos County

Developed by Cullen D. Tittle, Brazos County Extension Agent – Agriculture and Natural Resources

Relevance: Livestock and forage production are two of the most popular agricultural production enterprises in

Brazos County. Many producers are still understocked due to herd reduction caused by the 2011 drought and

record high calf prices have deterred significant herd growth. Rainfall in 2014 and 2015 created favorable

growing conditions for pastures and hay fields. Agricultural producers are always searching for ways to increase

profitability through 1) improved efficiency; 2) increased output or; 3) decreased input expense. Production and

subsequent harvest of high quality forages is key to improving animal performance. Pests such as weeds,

predators and feral hogs continue to cause economic losses.

Response: The Brazos County Beef & Forage Committee and the Brazos Area Hay Producers Association

planned and conducted multiple county (C) and regional (R)

livestock and forage educational events.

• Dr. OD Butler Forage Field Day (R)

• 5 Private Applicator Trainings (C)

• Feral Hog Management Seminar (C)

• Brazos County Youth Commercial Heifer Show & Sale (C)

• Rebuilding the Beef Herd (R)

• Brazos Valley Beef & Forage Expo (C)

• D8 Farm & Ranch Seminar (R & C)

Results: Five separate Private Applicator Trainings were conducted to prepare 31 agricultural producers for the

private pesticide applicator exam administered by the Texas Department of Agriculture.

Dr. OD Butler Forage Field Day…participants represented 29,189 acres (avg. size was 379ac) and 95.8% of

participants anticipated an economic benefit of $13.13 / acre from the information presented.

Level of Understanding: (% of respondents who increased their understanding of . . .)

• (35.0%) – How equipment efficiency can effect hay production

• (30.7%) – How timing of hay cutting can effect forage quality

• (33.3%) – The effects of soil pH related to hay production

Intentions to adopt: (% of respondents who probably will or definitely will …)

• (82.9%) – Use recommended practices/technology to control weeds

• (80.0%) – Read and follow pesticide label directions

• (79.4%) – Use soil analysis to improve forage quality and

density

Feral Hog Management Seminar… 133 participants estimated their

average economic loss due to feral hogs was $3,225 with an

average income from trapping/selling/hunting feral hogs was $785.

The participants anticipated a $372 (avg. benefit) as a result of

implementing knowledge gained during the seminar.


Level of Knowledge: (% of respondents who increased their knowledge of . . .)

• (88.0%) – Feral hogs and their control

• (79.3%) – Feral hog biology

• (84.9%) – Legal control options for feral hogs

Brazos County Youth Commercial Heifer Show & Sale…36 youth competed in a commercial heifer show and

sale designed to teach cow-calf management practices related to nutrition, herd health, body condition scoring,

breeding strategies, bull management and record keeping. Contestants participate in record keeping workshops,

pregnancy determination (palpation) workshops, interviews and the commercial heifer judging & review. At the

conclusion of the contest, 107 bred heifers were sold for an average of $3,276 / head.

Rebuilding the Beef Herd…125 producers representing 27,427 acres (517ac avg.) and 6,525 cows (125 hd

avg.). 95.7% of the attendees anticipate an economic benefit of $4.54/acre and/or $8.54/head as a result of

participating in this program.

Level of Understanding: (% of respondents who increased their understanding of . . .)

• (37.3%) – Where we are in the cattle cycle

• (27.3%) – How to develop a deworming strategy for your beef herd

• (29.3%) – How to develop a vaccination protocol for your beef herd


• (66.7%) – Develop a relationship with a vet to work through new regulations

• (71.0%) – Use cattle handling techniques that will minimize stress of cattle

Brazos Valley Beef & Forage Expo…An evaluation by a TAMU beef cattle specialist and an industry leader

discussed the positives and negatives of 10 live stocker calves followed by a beef market update and futures

outlook. Participants were provided information on various forage pests, an in-depth video showing the

“insides” of a beef cattle processing facility as well as an overview of the Clean Water Act.

D8 Farm & Ranch Seminar…One of 13 locations providing

eight hours of instruction focused on Laws & Regulations,

Forage Pest Management, Riparian Watershed Management,

Protecting Our Pollinators, Tree & Turf Diseases, Range &

Pasture Health Consideration, Controlling weeds & Brush

with Prescribed Burning and Brush Control Techniques. A

total of 642 individuals participated in the training across all

locations (17 in Brazos County).

Future Plans: Continue collaborating with surrounding

counties to develop innovative regional programs. Plan and

conduct a Beef 706 program. Conduct a spring beef tour.


2015 Brazos County Equine Education Program


Relevance: With over 5,000 horses in Brazos County, this industry is a primary agriculture endeavor for many

residents. Estimates indicate that Brazos County horse owners contribute over 21 million dollars to the Texas

economy via horse related events and feed/tack purchases. This sector of the agriculture industry is heavily

skewed toward horse owners who utilize their animals for recreational activities. Horse enthusiasts are in

continual need of educational topics related to horsemanship, nutrition, health maintenance, training

philosophies, and current industry issues. The Brazos Extension Horse Committee (BEHC) provides numerous

educational programs addressing these educational issues. Additionally, the BEHC serves as a conduit to the

general public in the dissemination of information related to equine activities in the Brazos Valley and

state-wide through their planned equine educational activities and their web-site; including social media outlets.

Response: Brazos Extension Horse Committee is an approved 501c3 entity and its members met monthly

during 2015 to plan, implement and evaluate educational events for Brazos Valley horse owners and equine

enthusiasts. 215 volunteer contacts were made as a result of these committee meetings. In 2015, the following

events were conducted:

Equine Evening - Keeping a Healthy Happy Horse – Collaborative effort with the TAMU Veterinary

Medical Teaching Hospital that addressed ‘First Aid for Horses’, the ‘Veterinary Emergency Team’,

‘Hay Quality & Pasture Management’ and ‘Assisted Equine Reproduction at TAMU’ and included a

tour of the Thomas G. Hildebrand, DVM ’56 Equine Complex. Over 250 participants.

TQHA Sanctioned Aggie Super Circuit – Statewide TQHA horse show. Includes riding clinics prior

to competitive events. Raised funds for the BEHC. 2,946 entries with more than 400 participants.

Brazos County Youth Livestock Show – BEHC members solicited donations from area businesses and

purchased livestock projects (over $10,000.00) to support local youth.

Bryan Stock Horse of Texas (SHOT) Show - Sanctioned SHOT show offering a day-long riding

clinic. The BEHC sponsored 11 youth participants in the riding clinic (cost of $142 each).

Results: Equine educational programs and fund-raising events allowed the Brazos Extension Horse Committee

to award over $1,215 in grants to local non-profit and educational entities, a $1,250 scholarship to Brazos

County youth, $2,951 towards the BCYLS Youth Auction and an additional $1,250 to support educational

events conducted by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Total donations in 2015 was $6,667.35.

Equine Evening – Keeping a Healthy Happy Horse… participants were evaluated for knowledge gained and

intentions to adopt. Results were:

Level of Understanding: (% of respondents who increased

their understanding of . . .)

(47.0%) – Effect of maturity on nutritive value

of hay

(35.0%) – Effect of fertility of forage yields and nutritive value

(15.7%) – Grasshopper and armyworm control

using Prevathon insecticide


(28.0%) – New insect pest…bermudagrass stem maggot

(43.7%) – Relationship between soil acidity and nutrient availability for plants

(24.0%) – Ovulation process in mares

(32.7%) – Assisted reproduction methods for horses

(40.0%) – ICSI and why it is used

(46.1%) – Emergency preparedness plans for horses

(50.0%) – Mission of TAMU Veterinary Emergency Team in relation to service animals

(50.0%) – Benefits of TAMU Veterinary Emergency Team following a disaster


(46.1%) – Utilize soil testing to improve nutrient management

(77.0%) – Utilize testing techniques to determine nutritive value

(30.0%) – Utilize assisted reproduction methods for my mares

(81.4%) – Develop a written personal emergency preparedness plan

(56.7%) – Maintain an up-to-date equine first aid kit

Future Plans: Educational programs for Brazos Valley equine owners will continue to be planned and

implemented by the BEHC. Additional Equine Evening seminars will be coordinated and co-sponsored by the

TAMU Vet School. The Brazos Area Horse Industry Directory will be revised and distributed annually. The

committee will also partner with the TAMU Horseman's Association to host the 2016 Aggie Super Circuit

Horse Show.


2015 Small Ruminant Production in the Brazos Valley


Relevance: The popularity of small ruminant production (specifically goats and sheep) continues to increase.

The introduction of Boer goats to Texas in the mid-90’s provided a heavier muscled, more docile and easier-to-

handle goat breed for landowners. With the continued fragmentation of large tracts of land, small ruminant

livestock are being stocked in areas of Texas historically not known for lamb and goat production. Landowners

in east and central Texas are utilizing sheep and goats for several reasons such as 1) consume understory brush

in wooded areas; 2) meet local appraisal district requirements and; 3) produce income via sale of livestock

and/or value added products. Traditional marketing channels for small ruminants are not well established in east

and central Texas. Additionally, the humid environment in this region creates optimal growing conditions for

internal parasites impacting sheep and goats.

Response: Small ruminant producers need reliable information addressing parasite management, health and

nutrition and, marketing opportunities. As aa result, the Brazos Valley Small Ruminant Committee planned and

conducted several educational events focused on managing internal parasites and marketing…

• Marketing Small Ruminants (Sheep & Goats) in the Brazos Valley

• 2 – Sustainable Control of Small Ruminant Parasites

• 8th

Annual Maroon and White Goat Sale

Results: Marketing Small Ruminants (Sheep & Goats) in the Brazos Valley…Conducted at Producers

Cooperative Association in Bryan and addressed 1) the impact or influence of religious holidays on the lamb

and goat market; 2) preferred types and kinds of small ruminant livestock for different religious holidays and; 3)

locations of established small ruminant auction barns.


• (68.2%) – Market impact of religious holidays (Christian, Jewish, Islamic & Hindu)

• (42.1%) – Differences in preferred goats based on holiday


• (87.3%) – Consult future religious holiday schedules when making breeding decisions

• (76.8%) – Time marketing of animals with religious holidays

Sustainable Control of Small Ruminant Parasites… A

collaborative effort with the TAMU Veterinary Medical

Teaching Hospital in March and August taught 41 producers

the principles of integrated parasite management in small

ruminants including FAMANCHA©. This day long classroom

and hands-on lab training discussed 1) internal parasites

impacting goats and lambs; 2) symptoms of heavily parasitized

animals; 3) non-chemical strategies to control parasites; 4)

importance of fecal analysis and; 5) labeled anthelmintic

products.



• (96.8%) – Need for proper doctor/client relationship for extra-label prescriptions

• (86.7%) – Economic thresh hold levels for specific gastrointestinal roundworms.

• (35.8%) – Benefits of rotational grazing compared to continuous grazing


• (92.1%) – Use labeled anthelmintic products to control internal parasites

• (28.1%) – Utilize fecal analysis as a deworming decision aide

8th

Annual Maroon and White Sale… The Maroon and White Goat Sale continues to

meet its original purpose of providing a means for area meat goat producers to market

their product to families participating in youth meat goat exhibition. This year, nine

different consignors brought 48 weaned meat goats to sell in the auction.

Future Plans: Expand educational programming in market development and continue

efforts in promoting integrated internal pest management strategies.


2015 Brazos County Earth-Kind Environmental Stewardship Program

Developed by Charla Anthony, Brazos County Horticulture Program Assistant

Relevance: Water supply and availability in Texas continue to be challenged. Population growth and a

booming economy are placing increasingly greater demand on water supplies. Citizens of Texas are even more

aware of the importance of water conservation today than ever before. Therefore, citizen input from our

community issues forum and Master Gardener volunteers concludes that this valuable and finite natural

resource must be managed prudently and wisely to avoid future shortages.

Response: In response to this issue, 40 educational group programs teaching Earth-Kind methods featuring

water conservation, as well as landscaping for energy conservation, reduction of fertilizer and pesticide use, and

reduction of yard wastes entering landfills were presented to 3,498 individuals. In one-to-one encounters, the

issue was also addressed with 811 Extension clients. Audiences varied from garden clubs to Habitat for

Humanity homeowners, neighborhood associations to senior citizen groups and customers of garden centers.

Of 57 in-print newscolumn and magazine articles, 19 featured water conservation methods promoting the use

of mulch, replacing turf with groundcover, amending soil with compost, using drip irrigation and harvesting

rainwater. Including online viewers, each publication reached over 76,000 people.

In urban areas of Texas about 25 percent of the water supply is used for landscape and garden irrigation. Much

of this water is used to maintain traditionally high water-demanding landscapes. To address this issue,

homeowners were targeted in an exhibit - Harvest Blue - Grow Green at the 2015 Brazos Valley Fair as well as

the BCS Home & Garden Show and the Senior Expo. Program sat these events featured low-water use plants,

composting and a ‘Water Facts’ bookmark, featuring water conservation was distributed to 545 individuals.

The website – brazosmg.com – offers compiled water conservation information from a wide variety of sources

and users say it is “easy to utilize” and “provides a broad selection of conservation topics at a single site.”

In 2015, our 86 Master Gardeners and Interns gave 6,093 volunteer service hours teaching Earth-Kind

landscape practices – the equivalent of a $140,565 gift to Brazos County. Our Facebook page has 670 ‘friends’,

o typically offering 11 posts per month, with an average reach of 225. Multiple radio interviews and television

appearances reached a combined audience of 33,000 individuals per broadcast, with a Central Texas Gardener

KLRU television broadcast reaching an estimated audience of 100,000.

Continued expansion of the county Demonstration Idea Garden – The DIG – that included a 2015 renovation of

the butterfly garden, brings the monetary investment since 2006 to $129,700. Combined with the total of

10,131 DIG service hours by Master Gardeners for that time period, the financial impact to date for the garden

is $345,914. The only public garden in the area as of 2015, The DIG has become a ‘destination’ for both

visitors to the community and residents to see applied Earth-Kind practices. In 2015, it was certified as a

Monarch Way Station by Monarch Watch and also received a Native Plant Society of Texas – Monarch Way

Station Grant of $250.


Jr. Master Gardener curriculum was utilized for 8 sessions in collaboration with First Presbyterian Church’s

afterschool program for middle school youth. In November, 149 people (69 adults, 80 youth) attended an open

garden day for youth featuring “Pollinator Hunt Bingo” and JMG activities.

Brazos County Master Gardeners, with an Extension Specialist and the county horticulturist partnered in 2015

with the Boonville Heritage Park committee, a joint project of the William Joel Bryan Chapter of The Sons of

the Republic of Texas with the Brazos County Commissioners Court. As a result of the volunteers’

recommendation, a rainwater channel and representative cistern was installed to demonstrate water conservation

practices of that era. A tourist venue, the park also features prominent events in Texas history, thus will serve

as enrichment education for 4th and 7th grade history classes.

2015 Results: Tasked with planning a landscape design, circa 1850, for Boonville Heritage Park, Extension

volunteers gave 320 service hours valued at $14,306.00 to the project. In the county demonstration garden –

The DIG - as a result of expansion and new signage, garden visitors can observe and replicate the plantings in

their urban landscapes to reduce water usage, lower water bills and add value to their property. In an evaluation

conducted for a November garden event featuring pollinators and Earth-Kind methods, 95% of respondents

expressed satisfaction in seeing the practices in place. Overall, 92% of respondents indicated increased

knowledge in levels of understanding of all Earth-Kind practices.

Future plans: The 2016 Brazos County Earth-Kind Environmental Stewardship program will continue to

focus on water conservation, with a planned water conservation educational series in collaboration with the City

of College Station and City of Bryan. In a pilot program, 12 volunteers will be specially trained to conduct

onsite ‘Earth-Kind Watering Checkups’ for urban landscapes with the goal to reduce urban water use in

landscapes. Master Gardener volunteers will support the Mayor’s Pledge for Monarch Watch in conjunction

with the National Wildlife Federation. In response to client requests, a series of programs will be offered for

beginners in vegetable gardening – featuring “foodscaping for families”. Seminars, garden tours and workshops

are scheduled to teach Earth-Kind methods that conserve natural resources.


Brazos County Walk Across Texas!

Developed by Flora Williams, Brazos County Extension Agent-Family and Consumer Sciences

Relevance: According to the Centers for Disease Control, regular

physical activity significantly improves health by lowering

disease risks, including dying from heart disease–the leading

cause of death. It decreases the risk for stroke, colon cancer,

diabetes, and high blood pressure; controls weight; increases the

strength of muscles and joints; reduces falls among older adults;

helps relieve arthritis pain; reduces anxiety and depression; and is

associated with fewer hospitalizations, physician visits, and

medications. Yet, more than 60 percent of American adults do

not get enough physical activity to provide health benefits. Activity decreases with age and is less common

among women than men and among those with lower income and less education. Additionally, there are

racial differences in physical activity rates, particularly among women. Elementary school students are not as

physically active as they should be to prevent becoming overweight. Walk Across Texas! task force

volunteers representing Texas A&M University (TAMU) Health and Kinesiology, TAMU System Human

Resources, Brazos County Health Department, City of Bryan, City of College Station, Texas Engineering

Experiment Station, and St. Joseph Regional Health Center promoted and conducted weekly walking groups,

secured sponsors, incentives and awards, sold t-shirts, and maintained a web page, www.brazoswat.com.

Response: The Walk Across Texas! (WAT) task force conducted the program’s 18th. The 8-week physical

activity program, designed to help Texans establish the habit of regular physical activity, was conducted

from February through April.

Results: A total of 85 people attended a community-wide Kick-off

Event and Team Captains’ Training at Post Oak Mall. At the

conclusion, winners were awarded prizes by the WAT prize patrol

for finishing in the top 3 teams with the most miles logged, ost

creative team name, and the most inspirational team member. A

total of 908 team members and individuals logged over 193,704

miles. Major sponsors were

The Eagle newspaper, Gold’s

Gym, and Awards and More.

Future Plans: The Walk Across Texas taskforce looks forward to

planning and implementing Walk Across Texas 2016 and celebrating 20

years of WAT in Texas and 19 years in Brazos County. Scott and White

Health Plan will serve as a major partner with the February 6-April 2,

2016 event.


Brazos County Do Well, Be Well with Diabetes


Relevance: Diabetes occurs when the body does not make enough insulin, or the insulin it makes does not work

properly. While diabetes is not curable, it is manageable. Skills needed to effectively manage diabetes are well

documented. Diabetes education is not readily available, yet the number of Americans with diabetes is projected

to increase 43 percent, growing from 12.1 million to 17.4 million by 2020. An estimated 1.05 million adult

Texans have been diagnosed with diabetes; another 0.5 million have undiagnosed diabetes. Through the use of

the Do Well, Be Well with Diabetes curriculum, program participants will improve their blood glucose

management.

Response: To help Texans with diabetes learn how to make the positive changes needed to manage their

disease, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service worked through the Brazos County Family and Consumer

Sciences Committee and offered a spring class of Do Well, Be Well with Diabetes (DWBW). The five sessions

of two-hour classes were offered. Participants received tools to help manage their chronic illness—recipes, a

blood glucose monitoring system, lower extremity amputation prevention filaments, pedometers, and instruction

from registered dieticians, health educators, pharmacist/podiatrist, and other diabetes professionals.

Results: A total of 10 adults Type 2 diabetes and one caregiver attended the classes held at the Brazos County

Extension Office. The classes focused on defining diabetes, nutrition and diabetes management, medications,

managing blood glucose, and preventing and managing complications. As a result of this class, 10 rated their

ability to control their blood sugar as excellent, six as very good, and one as good. Participants’ ranking of the

class, the speakers, and the timing of the class was 10 excellent and one good in all three areas.

Future Plans: The Brazos County Family and Consumer Sciences/Better Living for Texans Committee is

committed to continuing to offer diabetes education. The team of dieticians, nurses, and diabetes educators will

offer a summer and winter class in 2016.


Food Protection Management—Certified Food Managers

Developed by Flora Williams, County Extension Agent—Family & Consumer Sciences

Relevance

Each year, nearly 1 in 6 people become ill from the food they eat. Symptoms of foodborne disease include

nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, fever, and headache. While some people may view this as a

mere case of “food poisoning” foodborne illness has serious health and economic consequences. In fact,

foodborne illnesses from five pathogens alone (Campylobacter, Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, E. coli

O157:H7, and E. coli non-O157:H7 STEC) cost more than $6.9 billion in medical expenses, lost productivity,

and even death. All of us are at risk for foodborne illness, but older adults, pregnant women, young children,

individuals with chronic disease, and those with a compromised immune system are at an increased risk. Since

half of our food dollars are spent on foods eaten away from home, it is imperative that employees who work in

retail food service handle food safely.

Response

To meet the need for quality food safety education in Texas retail food establishments, the Food Protection

Management (FPM) program was developed. Our one-day certified food manager program prepares food

service workers to sit for the state Certified Food Manager exam. Our 2-hour food handler program, which is

accredited by the Department of State Health Services, trains front-line food service workers on the basic

principles of food safety. Both programs are conducted at the county level by Extension agents.

Results

During 2015, 79 people in Brazos County participated in the FPM program and completed the certified food

manager program from January to October of 2015. Passage of the CFM exam as well as customer satisfaction

with the CFM program is presented in this report. Nineteen additional food establishment workers participated

November through December and are not accounted for in the data below.

Certified Food Manager Participant characteristics (n=70)

Participants who completed the surveys were primarily female and from a variety of ethnic and racial

backgrounds. All age groups were represented. Managers represented the largest percentage (54%) of

participants. Forty percent of the participants had a high school education or less; the rest had completed some

college or a college degree. Almost half of the participants had 5 years or less food service experience; 21%

had 16 years of experience or more. Nearly 81% (n=57) of the participants had not received any food safety

training within the previous 12 months; however, 22 of the 70 participants had previously completed a CFM

course.

More than 64% (n=46) of the 70 participants identified the FPM program as their first exposure to Texas A&M

AgriLife Extension.


Client satisfaction with Certified Food Manager instruction

Average score

(n=73)

Client satisfaction with instructor’s knowledge of the subject. 1.3*+ .49

Client satisfaction with instructor’s speaking/presentation abilities. 1.3 + .47

Client satisfaction with instructor’s organization and preparedness. 1.2 + .46

Client satisfaction with instructor’s response to questions. 1.2 + .45

Overall client satisfaction with instructor performance 1.3 + .51

* Percentages rounded up to the nearest tenth and based on participant surveys received and entered as of

10/1/2015. The client satisfaction was given at the end of the training while the survey that assessed client

characteristics was given separately (at the beginning). Therefore, it is possible that not everyone completed

both surveys.

Instructor satisfaction scores are based on a 5-point Likert Scale (1 = very satisfied to 5 = very dissatisfied). In

other words the lower the number, the more satisfied the participant. Scores of 0 (not applicable) or 6 (no

response) were not included in the analysis.

Pass rate for Certified Food Manager Exam: 61%

Future Plans:

In 2016, Food Protection Management classes will continue on a monthly basis.


Dinner Tonight! Healthy Cooking Road Show and Cooking Schools

Conducted by FCS Agents in Brazos, Burleson, Grimes, Lee, Milam, Montgomery,

and Walker Counties

Developed by Flora William, County Extension Agent – Family and Consumer

Sciences - Brazos County

Relevance: The percentage of the food budget spent on away-from-home

food has increased steadily since the 1970s. Consequently, the proportion of

calories provided by away-from-home food has also increased. When dining

out, there is a tendency to choose foods higher in calories, and large portions

are increasingly common.

Many people become overwhelmed when they think of menu planning and

trying to prepare healthy, cost- effective meals for their families. Fortunately,

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension agents have the knowledge and expertise to provide resources that will help

encourage at-home family mealtime.

Response: Family Mealtime and Dinner Tonight are programs that are designed to target busy people who still

want to make time for meal preparation and feel good about what they are feeding themselves and their family.

Our goals are to promote family mealtime, teach families healthy meal planning and food preparation

techniques, and promote Texas agriculture.

The Walker, Brazos, Grimes, Lee, Montgomery, Milam, and Burleson county Family and Consumer Science

agents developed the concept of a traveling Dinner Tonight! Cooking Road Show that would maximize the

agents’ ability to master recipes and bring a live Dinner Tonight! Cooking demonstration followed by tasting of

each recipe was the most effective format followed in to each county. In 2015 the follow programs were held,

at which Burleson, Brazos, Grimes, Lee, Milam, Montgomery, and Walker County agents organized a three

menu food demonstration. A total of 258 attended the 10 Dinner Tonight Cooking Schools held in all 8

Counties which included Grimes County (18), Milam County (23), San Jacinto (22), Brazos (3 schools-67), Lee

County (10), Burleson (36), Walker (14), Montgomery (68).

Results:

During 2015, 258 people from attended the Dinner Tonight Cooking School Road Show and 85 attended Brazos

Dinner Tonight cooking schools not associated with the Road Show. Brazos County Dinner Tonight Cooking

Schools were held at the Veterans Administration Clinic and Lincoln Center. Evaluation of the program was

conducted as a pre and post survey for the Road Show.

258 people participated in the Dinner Tonight Cooking School Road Show

o 10 Dinner Tonight Healthy Cooking Schools

o Eight Counties: Grimes County (18), Milam County (23), San Jacinto (22), Brazos (3 schools-

67), Lee County (10), Burleson (36), Walker (14), Montgomery (68).

Client Level of Understanding


Table 1 shows the level of understanding before and immediately after the program regarding the key

components in the Dinner Tonight Cooking School Road Show.

Table 1. Client Level of Understanding

Table: Pre Means, Post Means & Percent Change

Your understanding of . . .

Mean

Before Mean After Percent Change

1 Key components of the Mediterranean

Meal Plan.

2.45 3.56 37.0%

2 Sodium (salt) content of the foods you

prepare.

2.92 3.52 20.0%

3 Types of fat used in the foods you

consume and prepare.

2.89 3.48 19.7%

4 Calorie content of the foods you

prepare.

2.85 3.39 18.0%

5 Fiber content of the foods you

consume

2.73 3.29 18.7%

Percent Change = ((Post Mean - Pre Mean) / 3) * 100

Change in targeted behaviors

Table 2 shows the client change in behavior before and immediately after the program regarding changes in

eating habits in relation to the Dinner Tonight Cooking School.

Table 2. Change in targeted behaviors

Table: Pre Means, Post Means & Percent Change

Your frequency of . . . Mean Before Mean After Percent Change

1 Incorporating a variety of fruits and

vegetables into your meal plan.

3.59 4.29 17.5%

2 Thinking how the foods you eat impact

your health.

3.81 4.42 15.2%

3 Thinking about how meal planning

saves time and reduce stress.

3.46 4.24 19.5%

4 Modifying recipes to reduce calorie

count.

3.19 4.21 25.5%

5 Modifying recipes to reduce sodium

content.

3.24 4.30 26.5%

Percent Change = ((Post Mean - Pre Mean) / 4) * 100


Future Plans: Brazos County will continue to be a part of the Road Show team. Waller County is new to the

multi-county group. Through the Scott and White Health Plan partnership, 200 plan members will be reached

through direct marketing.


All-Star Child Care Provider Conference and Inclusive Care Child Care

Conference

Conducted by FCS Agents in Brazos, Burleson, Grimes, Lee, Milam,

Montgomery, Walker Counties

Developed by Flora Williams, County Extension Agent – Family and

Consumer Sciences - Brazos County

Relevance: Over 60 percent of children from birth through age 6 (not yet in

kindergarten) receive some form of child care on a regular basis from persons other than their parents. The

Texas Workforce Commission estimates that there are over 100,000 child care providers caring for more

than 760,000 children under the age of 13 in licensed or regulated child care facilities in the state of Texas.

Additionally, child care is the 16th

largest industry in the state, generating over 145,000 jobs and $2.3 billion

in wages for Texans.

Findings from longitudinal research have clearly established the

fact that quality does matter when it comes to child care.

Children who receive high-quality care (e.g., warm sensitive

caregiving, well-educated child care staff, low child-to-adult

ratios, and small group size) develop better language, math, and

social skills; exhibit fewer behavior problems; and tend to be

better prepared for entrance into school. Having a well-trained

child care workforce is essential to providing the high quality

child care that children need to develop physically, socially,

emotionally, and cognitively.

Response: On March 7, 2015 and October 3, 2015, Texas

A&M AgriLife Extension Service conducted a child care provider training conference in Caldwell, Texas

and Bryan, Texas respectively for 65 and 109 child care providers and directors who provide care.

Results: 74 participants completed a customer satisfaction survey of the All Star Provider conference (see

below for results). A total of 1,153 clock hours of training were provided to

child care professionals seeking to meet state mandated training

requirements established by the state of Texas.

Overall:

• 76% of respondents were mostly or completely satisfied with the

activity.

Value of Activity:

• 72% of respondents said that the information and programs provided by

Extension were quite or extremely valuable to them.

• 93% of respondents would recommend this activity to others.

• 95% of respondents would attend another subject offered by Extension

if it addressed a specific need or interest of theirs.

Anticipated Changes & Economic Impact:


• 73% of respondents plan to take actions or make changes based on the information from this activity.

• 54% of respondents anticipate benefiting economically as a direct result of what they learned from this

Extension activity.

Future Plans:

Burleson and Brazos County will offer an Inclusive Child Care Conference for Preschool and School Age

Children on May 21, 2016 at the Burleson County Fairgrounds. The All Star Childcare Provider Training

Camp has added Waller County. The planning cluster will include agents from Brazos, Burleson, Grimes,

Lee, Milam, Montgomery, Walker, and Waller Counties and will be held at the Brazos Center on November

12, 2016.


Child Passenger Safety


Relevance: The proper use of child safety seats reduces the risk of injury

and death, leading to reduced medical costs, avoidance of lost future

earnings, and improved quality of life. More than 8 out of 10 car seats are

installed incorrectly. The Brazos County Family and Consumer Sciences

Committee identified misuse of car seats as a need through Brazos

County.

Response:

The Brazos County Family and Consumer Sciences Committee aided in

identifying audiences, marketing to groups, implementing, and interpretation of passenger safety education.

The committee referred families to have car seats inspected, children fitted into car seats, old and unsafe car

seats disposed of and replaced. Appointments were available two to three times monthly to learn best practices

and laws regarding passenger safety and to observe and to install the child’s car seat. The Buckle Bear lap

puppet and an educational presentation on car seats were offered to groups and childcare centers.

Results

Seventy-four car seats were inspected, 48 attended passenger safety

presentations, and 64 preschoolers participated in a buckle up for

safety puppet show. The economic benefits are an estimated $2,238

per child age 0 to 4 and $2,663 per child age 4 to 7 for new seats

distributed, and $634 per child for seat misuse corrected with an

assumed 75% continued use. Based on this formula, the total

economic impact for the 74 inspections conducted from January –

December 2015 is $123,015.

Future Plans:

Educational opportunities in child passenger safety will continue on a

monthly basis as long as grant funds or sponsors can be secured.

Funding opportunities for 48 car seats and funding for a booster seat campaign has been designated for Brazos

County through the work of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Passenger Safety from Texas Department of

Transportation.


Food Protection Management – Food Handler’s Program

Developed by Flora Williams, County Extension Agent—Family & Consumer Sciences

Relevance: As stated previously, each year, an estimated 1 in 6 people become ill from the food they eat.

Common symptoms of foodborne disease include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, fever, and

headache. While some people may view this as a mere case of “food poisoning” foodborne illness has serious

health and economic consequences. In fact, foodborne illnesses from five pathogens alone (Campylobacter,

Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, E. coli O157:H7, and E. coli non-O157:H7 STEC) cost more than $6.9

billion in medical expenses, lost productivity, and even death. All of us are at risk for foodborne illness, but

older adults, pregnant women, young children, individuals with chronic disease, and those with a compromised

immune system are at an increased risk. Because nearly half of our food dollars are spent on foods eaten away

from home, it is imperative that employees who work in retail food service handle food safely.

Response: To meet the need for quality food safety education in Texas retail food establishments, the Food

Protection Management (FPM) program was developed. Our 2-hour food handler program, which is accredited

by the Department of State Health Services, trains front-line food service workers on the basic principles of

food safety and is conducted at the county level by Extension agents.

Results: In 2015, 191 individuals in Brazos County participated in the FPM program and completed the food

handler program. Change in knowledge (pre vs post) was used to evaluate the food handler program. In

addition, client (customer) satisfaction surveys were collected from participants.

Future Plans: Food handlers class will continue for the food service establishments on Texas A&M University

campus. Classes are held twice a month January the March and September through October. Other months of

the year classes are taught on an as needed basis.


Better Living for Texans – Back to Basics and Monthly Classes

Developed by Priscilla Hammond, BLT Extension Assistant

Relevance: More than 3.7 million individuals receive benefits from

the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP),

historically known as food stamps. Studies have shown individuals

who live in poverty (including SNAP recipients) have dietary

intakes that are not in agreement with current recommendations (i.e.

Dietary Guidelines or MyPlate). This audience, like many, may not

recognize their risk for foodborne illness. Having enough food to

eat is also a challenge; an estimated 1 in 6 households in Texas

experience food insecurity.

Response: The BLT Program is a cooperative endeavor among

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), and the

Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) of USDA. A component of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

(SNAP), BLT offers food and nutrition education to SNAP recipients, applicants, and other low-income

audiences to help improve their ability to plan and prepare nutritious meals, stretch food dollars, and prepare

and store food safely. BLT also incorporates the Walk Across Texas program to promote physical activity. One

shot presentations, educational series, and cooking demos were offered at Lincoln Recreation Center, LULAC

Oakhill, Highland Villas, MHMR, Head Start, Neal Recreation Center, Bryan Housing, and Crest View

Apartments.

During 2015, 14 Brazos County adults completed the BLT Back to Basics series. This program focuses

on meal planning, stretching food dollars, and adopting selected behaviors that can reduce the risk of foodborne

illness. Of those participants, 14 completed the 30-day follow-up survey which allows us to assess the extent

that targeted behaviors were adopted.

Results: Most of the participants identified themselves

as female (n=9; 64.3%) and Not Hispanic (n=13; 92.9%).

Nearly 47% (n=6) a high school education; 30.8% (n=4)

had completed some college or a technical school. Mean

age of the participants was 69.93 years and average

household size of the participants was 2.0. Nearly 57%

(n=13) of the participants received SNAP (food stamp)

benefits. Ten (71.4%) of the participants reported

running out of food “always” or “sometimes” before the

end of the month.

21.4% of the participants identified BLT as their first

exposure to AgriLife Extension. This suggests that the program is reaching new audiences who otherwise

might not have the opportunity to benefit from Extension programs.

Average monthly out-of-pocket food expenses reported by participants**:

Before BLT: $225.50


After BLT: $197.27

** Based on those participants who reported monthly out-of-pocket food expenses at the beginning of BLT and

30-days after the program ended.

For participants who completed the pre, post, and follow-up surveys, the percentage who rated their perceived

ability to prepare nutritious meals as either “good” or “very good” was 64.43 before BLT (pre-survey) and

100% after BLT (30-day post survey).

9 of the participants rated the BLT program as “excellent” while 4 rated the program as “good.”

Future Plans:

The BLT program will continue to seek out new audiences to of one shot presentations, educational series, and

Walk Across Texas incorporating the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines. A new partnership the Brazos Valley Food

Bank will focus on community gardening.


2015 Brazos County Pizza Ranch Science of Agriculture Program

Developed by Jerod M Meurer, County Extension Agent- 4-H and Youth Development With support from Flora Williams County Extension Agent – Family and Consumer Sciences, Ashley Skinner Program Assistant- 4-H and Youth Development, Charla Anthony- Horticulture Program Assistant, Arvitta Scott Cooperative Extension Agent- 4-H & Youth Development, Dusty Tittle County Extension Agent- Agriculture & Natural Resources, Tina Roehling County Extension Agent- Family and Consumer Sciences, John Grange County Extension Agent- Agriculture & Natural Resources, and the Brazos County Pizza Ranch Committee. Relevance An abundant supply of safe food, economically priced and easy to prepare has American consumers complacent to issues facing agriculture industry. Currently less than four percent of our total population is involved in the production of food. However, nearly twenty percent of the entire workforce is involved in some phase of the agriculture industry production, storing, processing, manufacturing, distribution, food service, etc. The total of all these operations is termed “agribusiness”. Pre-evaluation studies have been conducted with fourth graders in urban counties indicating less than 10 percent had any idea why agriculture was important to them. This lack of knowledge and/or concern for agriculture extends to adult consumers as we observe “urban sprawl”. This was the base for the “Pizza Ranch” program. The challenge facing America is to feed more people on less land. These are the concerns that brought forth the idea of implementing the “Pizza Ranch Science of Agriculture” program in Brazos County. Response The 2015 Brazos County Pizza Ranch is held at the Brazos County Exposition Complex on October 7-8, 2015. By giving these 4th graders a chance to see and interact with various Extension programs, it is a goal to enhance the participant’s knowledge with food and fiber, agriculture, nutrition, water conservation, and 4-H projects. By providing the youth with various displays of educational modules, educational activities, 4-H club's projects and activities; we are able increase their knowledge relating to general agriculture, life sciences, family and consumer sciences. Students are able to discuss different foods grown in Texas, find out about processing of food and the production of food 'from farm to fork', students begin to discover the interesting and complex history behind one of their most commonly shared food items. They are able to practice math, social studies, history and writing skills, all using pizza as the centerpiece. The ability for the Pizza Ranch to supplement the teacher’s


classroom curriculum is a bonus for the educators that bring their students to the event. Alignment of the subject matter with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) requirements transforms the Pizza Ranch from an educational field trip to a real tool for the educators. Educational sessions conducted include: My Plate: teaching youth about My Plate and the importance of healthy eating and exercise. Health & Food Safety: food preparation basics. The Dairy Industry and Southwest Dairy Farmers: youth learned about life on a dairy, how milk is made, where it comes from and how it makes it to the grocer’s shelf. Poultry: youth learned stages of a chicken’s life and proper care of animal. Wheat: youth learned how wheat is grown, processed and then converted to what they eat. Vegetables & Herbs: youth learned about the varieties of vegetables and herbs that can be put on a pizza and how they are important for their diet. Swine & Beef: youth learned about the importance of protein in their diet and how the many byproducts of these animals are used in every day foods, clothing and medicines. Farm Safety: youth learned the importance of farm safety and how to be safe around running equipment. Water: the youth learned the role water plays in all aspects of agriculture and the importance of water conservation.

Results The 2015 Pizza Ranch hosted 15 elementary schools from Brazos and Burleson counties with 1225 4th grade youth accompanied by 100 teachers and chaperones. Results show significant knowledge gained from participation in this unique event. In order to determine programmatic results of the Brazos County Pizza Ranch Program, a pre/post evaluation was administered to participants. A random sample of 300 of the 2015 participants was taken from the 1225 respondents that returned surveys. Out of 23 questions, all had an increase in 27% change from pre to posttest evaluation. Students answered multiple choice questions pertaining to the different subject areas. Some examples with the largest percent change were:


Question Pre-Test % Correct

Post-Test % Correct

Overall % Increase

Agriculture touches my life everyday 36% 74.7% 38.7%

Low-fat cheese is an example of dairy food

67% 87.5% 20.5%

How many seconds should we wash our hands to be sure they are germ free

44% 61.7% 17.7%

How long does it take for a chick to hatch?

40.1% 68% 27.9

Where does your drinking water come from?

28.3% 82.7% 54.4%

The teacher feedback was unanimous regarding the importance of this event to their students. The evaluations of the program submitted by the teachers revealed that they liked how interactive the learning sessions were. Comments were made that the material fits their curriculum well in the areas of Science, Geography, History, Mathematics, Natural Resources and also Physical Education. Teachers and parents attending also commented on how necessary the water conservation was for the youth. The teachers also liked how we changed the format of the survey this year and made it easier for the kids to read and understand it. Future Plans. The Brazos County Pizza Ranch will continue to be an annual event for Brazos, Leon and Burleson County 4th grade youth. There will be a continued effort to maintain and even increase attendance through innovative marketing and supplementing transportation costs for schools. Continued feedback from teachers, superintendents and curriculum coordinators will insure that the Brazos County Pizza Ranch is not only a fun field trip for the youth, but a well-rounded educational experience as well.


2015 Brazos County Livestock Educational Series

Developed by Jerod M Meurer, County Extension Agent-4-H and Youth Development With support from Ashley Skinner Program Assistant- 4-H and Youth Development, Dusty Tittle, County Extension Agent-Agriculture and Natural Resources,

Relevance Livestock projects are still one of the top project areas in the 4-H & Youth Development Program. It is imperative that youth exhibitors and adult volunteers be well trained on a variety of safe & ethical animal husbandry practices. In support of the many families that participate and compete with livestock projects, we implemented the Livestock Educational Series in partnership with Producers Cooperative Association and the local Agriculture Science Teachers. This series is to teach basic livestock project management to new and beginning youth in the species areas of sheep, goats, swine, rabbits, poultry, and beef cattle. The ultimate goals of the Livestock Series is to provide 4-H and FFA livestock exhibitors with an opportunity to gain valuable knowledge about the project the will be competing with at the county and major livestock shows through a series of trainings before they purchase their project, and a follow up showmanship clinic to allow them some ring experience and practice before they attend an actual show. Response The Livestock Educational Series is an all year long program that has multiple educational and hands on trainings for all livestock species exhibited at the major shows and the Brazos County Youth Livestock Show. In partnership with Producers Cooperative Association and the Brazos County Youth Livestock show we held informational trainings for poultry, sheep & goats, show cattle, commercial heifers, and swine. The county 4-H rabbit club assisted in having multiple rabbit project trainings throughout the year as well. In January we held poultry trainings at Producers COOP that had over 60 people in attendance, the speaker was Curtis Vader and he gave an overview of the entire poultry raising process and gave the youth some guidelines and outlines on how to be successful in their poultry projects for the county and major livestock shows. There was also a hands on sheep and goat showmanship clinic held in January at Louis Pearce Pavilion, at this event exhibitors were able to bring their project in and get assistance on proper showmanship techniques to help them prepare for the county and major livestock shows. To assist with this program we had experienced senior livestock exhibitors and adult volunteers give their advice to the younger and less experienced exhibitors. The local rabbit club in the county held multiple trainings in the month of February and March to assist the youth in the county prepare for the upcoming county show. At these clinics they covered the topics that will be covered in the rabbit knowledge contest, along with rabbit showmanship practice for the new and younger rabbit exhibitors. Next in the series was the Show Cattle workshop held in April, this was attended by 16 individuals. This workshop covered selection, housing, animal health and animal nutrition. At the end of May, a sheep and goat workshop was held; this was presented by the Thurman family. The topics that were discussed were, where to purchase your animal, selection of projects, feeding, and equipment needed to be successful. 22 people were in attendance at this


program. In October the swine program was held at the Brazos County Extension Office, Jerod Meurer spoke on selection, feeding, showmanship, and what products are needed at the show. Also in October the rabbit group held another training to help prepare the new and younger rabbit exhibitors on how to prepare for the upcoming show season, where to purchase rabbits, and some feeding and nutrition information to help make the youth successful in the coming show season. 51 people attended this training.

Results The 2015 Livestock Educational series hosted 180 4-H & FFA families from across the county and some from other counties who wanted to participate in the trainings held at Producers Cooperative Association, Brazos County Extension office, and Louis Pearce Pavilion at Texas A&M University. In order to determine programmatic results of the Livestock Educational Series, an online survey was administered through the Qualtrics system to the participants after each program was conducted. There were 180 surveys sent out to working email addresses and of these surveys the majority said they felt the program was overall successful and would attend another event. The survey also showed that over half of the people attending these programs are first and second year exhibitors, which shows that we are reaching the target audience we are working to reach. Of the questions that were asked about knowledge gained from the programs, the greatest change was in the area of selection of projects, and knowledge of feeding and animal health. Over 80% of the people who submitted surveys said they would defiantly attend another program that we put on, and felt that these were successful.

Question Sheep & Goat Responses

Rabbit Responses Swine Responses

Checking daily for health problems in your project

95%- Defiantly 88%- Defiantly 100%- Defiantly

Use proper selection criteria when purchasing my project

90%- Defiantly 10%- Probably

N/A 95%- Defiantly

Help others with their projects 65%- Probably 85%- Defiantly 73%- Defiantly

Set personal goals for myself and my project 75%- Defiantly 92%- Defiantly 100%- Defiantly

Feed my project at the same time each day 63% Probably 88% Probably 96% Probably

Clean my facilities daily 90%-Defiantly 85%-Defiantly 100%-Defiantly

Future Plans. The Livestock training series will continue to be an annual event in partnership with Producers COOP, Texas A&M Animal Science Department, and Brazos County Youth Livestock Show Association, for the youth of Brazos and surrounding counties. There will be a continued effort by the 4-H livestock task force, agents & Ag Science Teachers to expand the trainings to cover more species and allow for more showmanship practices and informational meetings. We are working with the Animal Science Department at Texas A&M to gain access to some swine for the youth to practice showing rather than brining their own pigs out. Continued feedback from parents and youth will insure that the Livestock Series is a well-rounded educational experience for both the adults and youth exhibitors as well.


2015 Southern Classic Youth Livestock Experience Developed by Jerod M Meurer, County Extension Agent-4-H and Youth Development With support from Dusty Tittle, County Extension Agent-Agriculture and Natural Resources, Keeton Ehrig, County Extension Agent-Agriculture and Natural Resources, Reggie Lepley, County Extension Agent-Agriculture and Natural Resources, Kristy Titzman- County Extension Agent-4-H and Youth Development, Ryan Powell, County Extension Agent-Agriculture and Natural Resources, John Grange, County Extension Agent-Agriculture and Natural Resources, Chad Caperton, County Extension Agent-Agriculture and Natural Resources, StacieVillarreal, County Extension Agent-Agriculture and Natural Resources, Dale A. Fritz, Ph.D., District Extension Administrator, and Kevin D. Chilek, Ph.D., Extension Program Specialist - 4-H, Billy Zanolini, PhD- Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist-Youth Livestock and Agriculture

Relevance Livestock projects are still one of the top project areas in the 4-H & Youth Development Program. It is imperative that youth exhibitors and adult volunteers be well trained on a variety of safe & ethical animal husbandry practices. In support of the many families that participate and compete with livestock projects, will again be offering the Coastal Bend Classic to teach basic livestock project management to new and beginning youth in the species areas of sheep, goats, swine, rabbits, and beef cattle. The ultimate goals of the Southern Classic is to provide 4-H and FFA livestock exhibitors with an opportunity to experience the local county livestock show prior to actually competing with their market livestock projects, as well as ensure that the Brazos area youth have the opportunity to learn skills necessary for being competitive in the youth livestock show. Response The 2015 Southern Classic is a multi-county event held at the Brazos County Exposition Complex on December 11-13, 2015. By giving the youth and adults a chance to receive a valuable and educational experience for both them and their livestock projects, it allows for them to attend informational sessions within their species area and receive hands on training in showmanship, feeding, animal health, and daily care. Specialist, adult volunteers, agents, and livestock ambassadors were all used to help conduct the educational sessions, as well assisted with the practice show. Exhibitors are able to receive knowledgeable information from professionals in the different species in both the show ring and production field. Educational sessions conducted include: Beef Cattle- Nutrition and Animal health, wash rack demo, daily hair care demo, slick shearing, & showmanship. Sheep- Animal health, feeding strategies, showmanship, & ask an expert. Swine- Show preparation, Nutrition, what’s in the showbox, and showmanship. Goats- Selection, facilities, feeding, hair care, hoof trimming, showbox essentials, exercise & training, showmanship. Broilers- facilities, feeding, and general management. Results The 2015 Southern Classic hosted 137 families from Brazos, Burleson, Lee, Madison, Walker, Washington, Robertson, Grimes, Waller, & Harris Counties. Results from the beef cattle section of the event show significant knowledge gained from the participants in this educational livestock event.


In order to determine programmatic results of the Southern Classic’s species workshops, a pre/post evaluation was administered to all participants who attend each species section. After evaluating all the surveys submitted by the youth who attended, the results showed over half of them where there for the first time and this was the only livestock project training they would be attending this show season. The grade level of youth in attendance was from 3rd to 12th with a majority of them being in the grades 8-12.

The chart below highlights some of the questions that had the most knowledge gained for each species

Species Question Pre-test response Post-test response Overall % change Sheep- What is an acceptable body temperature range for a lamb? 100.9-103.0

15% 94.7% 79.7%

Goat- Proper showmanship techniques include? Head up, eye contact, ring awareness, & space management

59.7% 90.7% 31%

Broilers- How many square feet does a broiler need? 2sq. ft.

47.1% 100% 52.9%

Swine-all exhibitors are responsible for being up to date on the show rules… Both A(exhibitors) & B (parents)

76.2% 86.4% 10.2%

Cattle- Which of the following feeds would be considered roughage? Cottonseed hulls

42.9% 77.1% 34.2%

Of the open ended questions and questions over what the participants would like to see at this event in the future, the majority of the surveys showed that they would like to see more showmanship, pre-show preparation, project selection, and exercise and handling techniques. So we will take these notes and make adjustments for programing in the future. Future Plans. The Southern Classic will continue to be an annual event for youth livestock exhibitors of the Brazos Valley. There will be a continued effort to maintain and even increase attendance through innovative marketing, new topics, new speakers, and implementing new events and contest for the Southern Classic. Continued feedback from parents and youth will insure that the Southern Classic is not only a jackpot show for the exhibitors, but a well-rounded educational experience for both the adults and youth exhibitors as well. We will also work to make the program bigger and better, and possible work at adding a commercial steer and heifer section to the Saturday part of the event to help better prepare the youth who participate in these events. We will also continue to work to add more specialist and adult volunteers to the presenter list for the species workshops.


2015 Brazos County Volunteer Mobilization

Developed by Jerod M Meurer, County Extension Agent-4-H and Youth Development With support from Flora Williams County Extension Agent – Family and Consumer Sciences, Ashley Skinner Program Assistant- 4-H and Youth Development, Charla Anthony- Horticulture Program Assistant, Arvitta Scott Cooperative Extension Agent- 4-H & Youth Development, and Dusty Tittle County Extension Agent- Agriculture & Natural Resources.

Relevance

With the growing number of 4-H youth enrolling in the program, the need for trained and educated volunteers is growing at an even faster pace. It is imperative for the success of the 4-H program that the adult volunteers be trained to help teach and coach the youth in various project areas to assist the agent in expanding the 4-H program and reaching new members. The Volunteer Mobilization plans goal is going to be to train adult volunteer leaders in certain project areas to help support the 4-H youth program by teaching the youth particular projects and coach them for competitions. They will also be used provide informational trainings to clubs in the county who do not have a certain project leader within that club. Response The Volunteer Mobilization program held project leader trainings in the following topic areas; Consumer education, Record book, Horse project, Livestock project, Shooting Sports, Photography, and Food & Nutrition. These were the targeted project areas selected by the Adult Leaders and club managers. A volunteer recruitment event was held in January to help acquire new volunteers to start the new year off. We looked for volunteers to help with the Consumer Decision Making team as well as the Horse project. We trained the CDM leaders in February by walking through a contest, going over the new guidelines for the state contest, and discussing how to prepare the kids to give reasons. In May we held trainings for the equine and livestock project leaders. For the equine leaders we discussed the upcoming county, district and state horse shows, and how to prepare the youth for these events. We also went over horse validation and helped the new members to understand the purpose behind this process. The group also started working towards next year and how to get more kids involved in the equine program. Also in May we held a record book training workshop for club managers, parents and others who wanted to become more familiar with this aspect of the program. We held 2 trainings in the same day to allow more people to attend. These leaders were then asked to go back to their clubs and help inform their members of how to properly put a record book together, the different categories they can be entered in, and we also used some of these leaders as judges for the county and district record book judging. In August we held another volunteer recruitment to help get new members involved as the new 4-H year kicked off. We highlighted some of the current programs we already had established as well as a list of new programs that we were looking for a potential leader to take on, these were photography and robotics. In September we held a shooting sports leader training and this was mainly for the shotgun project. We had 12 new leaders come on board and 4 of them are the new club managers for the Sportsman’s club so we explained all the duties of a club manager, went over important information they need to know about using other volunteers and the requirement of the coaches being


certified coach through the 4-H program. In December we held another record book training for the club leaders, and adults. This workshop was conducted online, we walked the leaders through the changes to the new record books, explained some of the new categories, and to help get them ahead of the game by getting this information out to their club members a lot sooner to encourage them to start on their record book before May. Results The 2015 Volunteer Mobilization plan hosted 7 trainings for adult volunteers in various project areas with the emphasis on growing new programs and building support for current programs. The results showed an increase in participation from our volunteer base and an increase in knowledge about the program areas that the volunteers are involved in.

In order to determine programmatic results of the Volunteer Mobilization plan, a follow up survey was administered to the participants 4-6 weeks after the last session. This was an emailed survey that allowed the participants to take it and return it to the agent. Administer the survey 4-6 weeks later allowed the participant’s time to implement the things that were discussed as well as time to try new things that were discussed with the youth they were working with, and allowed time to provide adequate feedback about the training as well as suggestions to help make the future trainings more beneficial.

The survey asked the attendees to answer some questions about how much information about the project area that they knew before and after the program. Overall the greatest difference between before and after the training was; the contest the youth can participate in and other contest that were in that project area that the leaders were not aware of, and where to find resources for the project area. A lot of them made note that they would reach out to previous leaders and the agent, but were not aware of all the information that was found on the State 4-H website for each project area. For the record book training we had a lot of volunteers write back saying they would like more trainings throughout the year to help them prepare sooner, and would like for us to work on getting an online video workshop put together to help them use as a reference when they are working with their clubs to complete the record books. This is being worked on and hopefully will be put out later this year.

Future Plans With the continued growing number of youth becoming active in the local 4-H program the need for volunteers to help coach, teach, and lead these youth is a very important and relevant factor for the 4-H program. Brazos County will continue to offer trainings to educate the current volunteers in the subject matter as well as recruit new volunteers to help reach the new audiences and focus on the new target areas of the 4-H program such as wildlife, robotics, and photography.


2015 Brazos County 4-H Management-Outreach

Developed by Jerod M Meurer, County Extension Agent-4-H and Youth Development With support from Ashley Skinner Program Assistant- 4-H and Youth Development, Dusty Tittle, County Extension Agent-Agriculture and Natural Resources, Flora Williams, County Extension Agent- Family & Consumer Science, & Arvitta Scott Cooperative Extension Agent- 4-H & Youth Development

Response

Managing the 4‐H program includes many facets. There are club members, club managers, adult and youth volunteers, program area committees, and other boards that must be managed to ensure a healthy, thriving program. The Extension Agent is heavily involved in all aspects of the 4‐H program in Brazos County. Educational events for youth and adults are held throughout the year to teach knowledge in subjects and to help members gain skills needed to have thriving clubs in the county. Program area committee meetings, such as those for FCS‐related projects or livestock‐related projects are held to ensure our relevancy in today’s society. These committees help guide their selected projects to ensure the meet the needs of the youth in Brazos County. A Youth Board is also in place to help identify issues of the youth of Brazos County. Not only do members and volunteer leaders participate in educational events through projects and activities, they are also involved with the Extension agent and a variety of groups and committees to plan and facilitate the program. They help provide support to the Brazos County 4‐H program through publicizing information, coordinating fundraising efforts, and collecting, processing and submitting entries for various events and activities. There are 681 4‐H members enrolled in wide variety of projects throughout Brazos County with 194 adult volunteers trained to enhance educational experiences for the members. The agent strives to train leaders and youth in all aspects of 4‐H projects. Results

Planning and coordinating the 4‐H program in Brazos County is manned by all four Extension Agents assigned to Brazos County. 4‐H members are involved in a wide variety of projects such as livestock related projects, FCS‐related projects, and non‐traditional 4‐H projects such as photography, robotics, and companion animals. It takes all four agents to help train and motivate volunteer leaders for these vastly duties. Trainings are held for adult and youth volunteers in the wide variety of projects in which kids are enrolled and educational workshops and sessions are held to allow more knowledge and experiences to be gained by the youth and adults involved within the projects. Workshops are held for photography, consumer education, record book preparation, scholarship application preparation, horse projects, livestock projects, and judging contests. Volunteers are continuously identified, recruited and trained for various projects to help with the growth of the program. Newsletters are distributed to all members electronically as well as weekly email reminders are sent to members to keep everyone knowledgeable of 4‐H events and activities happening in the county. Future Plans

The future plans for the 4-H program of Brazos County are to continue to grow the program, and grown new areas of the 4-H program. Focus will be on the Robotics and Wildlife projects for the upcoming year for the new project areas, and we will continue to grow the already established project areas such as food and nutrition, shooting sports, public speaking, photography, and share the fun by hosting project specific workshops to help encourage new members to participate and help the current members to grow in the specific project area.


2015 Brazos County 4-H Agriculture & Livestock-Outreach Developed by Jerod Meurer, Brazos County Extension Agent, 4‐H & Youth Development With support from Ashley Skinner Program Assistant- 4-H and Youth Development, Dusty Tittle, County Extension Agent-Agriculture and Natural Resources, Response: Youth need a variety of projects and activities to help them develop into contributing members of society. The 4‐H and Youth Development Agent works with numerous volunteers to support a wide variety of projects to better serve the youth of Brazos County. Large projects that are supported are livestock projects such as beef, swine, rabbits, poultry, lambs, and goats, consumer education, livestock judging, public speaking, horsemanship, gaining leadership skills, shooting sports, digital photography, and food and nutrition education. The Brazos County 4‐H agent gives leadership to numerous workshops and trainings for youth and adults and facilitates contests for many projects to help evaluate skills learned in these projects. There are 681 4-H members in Brazos County that participate in 4‐H projects of all kinds and the Extension Office staff, along with trained volunteers, gives leadership to these projects.

Results: As a result of the numerous workshops and trainings held throughout the year, Brazos County is well represented by our 4‐H youth at many local, district, and state events. Many of the events that they attend are not invitational events; they earn their way to the event. As example of this is 4‐H Round‐Up. Brazos County was represented by 68 youth at State 4‐H Round‐Up this year. They competed in Livestock Judging, Share the Fun, Ag Product ID, Food Challenge, Horse Judging, Educational Presentations, Healthy Lifestyles, Food Show, Fashion Show, Photography Judging, and Archery. Eight members also attended as a recipient of a State 4‐H scholarship. There are 4‐H members from Brazos County participating in numerous projects and livestock shows across the state. Brazos County validated 575 animals for the major and county livestock shows for the 2015-2016 seasons. The horse program validated 47 horses for 29 families, and these families competed at the county, district and those who qualified competed at the State horse show. This year we also validated 19 dogs for the dog project and these individuals competed at regional and state dog shows with their 4-H projects. The livestock judging teams competed at multiple contests at the local, district, and state level and the senior team advanced to the state contest held during 4-H Roundup. Other contest Brazos county had participation in were Horse Judging and Ag Product ID. Brazos County also had 39 youth participate in the State Shooting Sports Games held in San Antonio; these youth also competed at the San Antonio and Houston Livestock Shows shooting competitions.

Future Plans: With the growing number of youth being involved in livestock projects, the Brazos County 4-H Livestock Committee will continue the Livestock project training workshops for both the youth and the adult project leaders. Also we are working to grow the Wildlife and Ag Product ID project areas by starting a new club for wildlife and to train more coaches for the Ag Product ID contest.


2015 Brazos County CEP Heroes 4-Health Program

Developed by Arvitta Scott, County Extension Agent 4-H and Youth Development with support

from Wal-Mart Foundation, 4-H Teen Ambassadors/Adult Volunteers, Community Partners,

TAMU AgriLife Extension Staff/Faculty & Prairie View A&M University CAHS

Relevance Among Texas’s adolescents in 9

th-12

th grade, 15. 6% were overweight and 13.6% were obese according to the

Center for Disease Control. Research indicates that a high percentage of youths do not eat a healthy diet and

they do not exercise regularly, which has resulted in increased childhood obesity and poor nutritional eating

habits. Brazos County Healthy Living Teen Ambassadors identified Childhood Obesity as a critical issue in the

Brazos Valley communities. Consequently, education to help prevent overweight and obesity and make

lifestyle changes to reduce excess body weight is a priority for Brazos County Cooperative Extension Programs

in schools and other youth organizations.

Response Heroes 4-Health: Youth Voice, Youth Choice Program developed the following educational events and

activities reaching approximately 824 youth and adult families ages 9 and up using the Choose Healthy Food,

Fun and Fitness (CHFFF) curriculum:

State Healthy Living Training at Camp Allen in Navasota,

TX (January, 2015)

Food & Nutrition Boot Camp at North Bryan Community

Center (January, 2015)

National Youth Summit on Healthy Living Presenters in

Washington, D.C. (February, 2015)

Family Fun 60 a Day is How We Play at Sam Rayburn

Middle School (February, 2015)

Choose Health: Food, Fun, & Fitness Program at Sam

Rayburn & North Bryan Community Center (March, 2015)

Heroes 4-Health Recognition Banquet at Hildebrand Equine

(April, 2015)

Heroes 4-Health Nutri-Fit Camp at Bryan Housing Authority

(June, 2015)

City of Bryan Parks & Recreation Camp (June, 2015)

National Healthy Living Training in Washington D.C.

(August, 2015)

All-Star Childcare Conference-State of Obesity at Brazos

Center (October, 2015)

Results An evaluation instrument (retrospective post approach Healthy Living Common Measure) was administered to

184 participants and was utilized to measure knowledge gained and behavior change.


Knowledge Gained

As a result of 4-H Healthy Living…

# of

Participants

%

Strongly

Agree

%

Agree

%

Disagree

I learned the foods that I should eat every day 184 50.4% 39.9% 9.7%

I learned what makes up a balanced diet 184 41.0% 44.4% 14.6%

I learned why it is important for me to eat a healthy diet 184 65.4% 27.9% 6.7%

I learned how to make healthy food choices 184 42.0% 50.9% 7.1%

Behavior Change


# of

Participants

%

Strongly

Agree

%

Agree

%

Disagree

I eat more fruits and vegetables 184 46.0% 46.0% 8.0%

I eat more whole grains 184 41.5% 50.0% 8.5%

I eat less junk foods 184 27.2% 52.2% 20.6%

I drink more water 184 51.0% 40.5% 8.5%

I encourage my family and friends to eat meals together 184 45.9% 35.6% 18.5%

Results indicate that participants of this healthy living educational program met the objective of knowledge

gained and changed behaviors among limited resource youth in Brazos County. The research also demonstrates

that youth who participated in the program learned how make healthy foods choices and was engaged in fun

fitness activities. Results will be shared with stakeholders.

“Quotes from Heroes 4-Health: Youth Voice, Youth Choice Program Participants”

“I love everything about Heroes 4-Health Program especially the food

demonstrations. I learned how to make grill cheese using whole wheat

bread and low-fat cheese without using butter. I really enjoyed

making healthy fruit smoothies with spinach. At first I was hesitant

because I don’t like spinach. But, I like it! It tastes so good! Another

thing I like was learning how to choose healthier foods fast from

McDonalds. Instead of getting French fries, make a healthy choice

and order a salad.” -Octavious

“I had so much fun playing games. I really like the soda pop sugar

demonstration. I didn’t realize how much sugar was in a 20oz coke

until I saw it demonstrated. Now that I know, I plan to drink more

water and milk instead of soda pop.” -Braylon

“I just want to tell you that your Texas Team was fabulous! They are

high energy and very committed. The youth and adults were so very

engaged and excited and produced a terrific plan. I really enjoyed

getting to know them and I want you to know that you can be SO

proud of each and every one of them.” -Dr. Cheri Booth

Physical Activity Knowledge Gained


# of Participants

% I

Agree

%

Do Not Agree

Not

Sure

Being active is fun 184 90.0% - 10.0%

Being active is good for me 184 94.1% 5.9% -

Physical activity will help me stay fit 184 98.0% - 2.o%


Future Programs

Heroes 4-Health program will be implemented at Harmony Science Academy in January 2016. On February 11-

15, we will attend and present three Stepping & Moving to Promote Physical Fitness workshops at the

National Youth Summit on Healthy Living in Washington, D.C. We are forming a Nutrition Quiz Bowl Team

to compete at District Round Up in April 2016. In addition, we will also continue our partnership with Bryan

Housing Authority to conduct our second annual Heroes 4-Health Nutri-Fit Camp in July 2016.


2015 Brazos County CEP 4-H Management-Outreach

Developed by Arvitta L. Scott, County Extension Agent-4-H and Youth Development with

support from CEP 4-H Adult Volunteers, and Brazos County Extension Staff and Faculty

To strengthen and increase visibility of the Brazos county 4-H

program and meet the needs of limited resource audiences, there are

essential administrative and managerial functions of the 4-H

management and outreach program to create sustainable change.

Several tasks include intentional youth development, program

development, club development, adult leader and volunteer

recruiting and training, community partnerships, committee

development, and soliciting sponsorship. Additional activities are

marketing, evaluating, and interpreting to stakeholders as well as

planning and managing budgets and events. With limited resources

in the identified communities in Brazos County, it is important that

Cooperative Extension Program offer opportunities, support and educational programs to oversee the effective

use of projects, events, and activities while developing participating youth into productive leaders of society.

Response To promote positive youth development and to work with people who need us most, we conducted educational

programs/activities, volunteer trainings, committee meetings, project site visits and provided support and

resources for 4-H clubs to meet the interest and needs of youth and adults.

Community Partnership-Sam Rayburn Middle School, McDonalds, and Kroger; 4-H Club Development

for Financial Responsibility; Adult Leader/Club Manager/Youth Council Meeting; Program Highlights-

Leadership Advisory Board; (January, 2015)

CEP 4-H Market/Promote 4-H Program-Clear Channel Radio/KBTX; African American National

Heritage Society Appreciation Banquet; Leadership Development-North Bryan Community Center;

(February, 2015)

CEP 4-H Market/Promote 4-H Program-Clear Channel Radio; Recruited youth for County Food Show;

Summer Program Planning-Lincoln Recreation Center; County/District Round Up Contest Coaching;

CEP 4-H Program Highlights-Leadership Advisory Board Meeting; BCYLS FCS Committee Meeting;

Community Partner Meeting (March, 2015)

County 4-H Round Up Contest Coaching-NBCC 4-H Club; District Round Up Share the Fun Event;

Egg to Chick Program-Bryan High School; County Appreciation Breakfast; Market/Promote 4-H-Clear

Channel Radio; Earth Day Plant Pals-African American Heritage Museum; 4-H County Round

Up(April, 2015)

District 9 Round Up; Record Book Training; Adult Leader/Club Manager Meeting; CEP 4-H Program

Highlights-Leadership Advisory Board Meeting; Community Partner Program Planning; (May, 2015)

Texas 4-H Round Up Public Speaking, Educational Presentations and Share the Fun Event; 4-H

Program Training-North Bryan Community Center; 4-H in Focus Digital Photo Camp; Bryan Summer

Park Camp (June, 2015)


Leadership Development Camp-Juvenile Justice Center; 4-H Food Challenge Training; 4-H STEM

Robotics Camp; 4-H Food Chopped Challenge Contest; Take a Stand Against Bullying Day Camp;

PVAMU Career Awareness Youth Leadership Lab (July, 2015)

Club Manager Training; Market/Promote 4-H Program-Family Fun Fest (A&M UMC) and Back to

School Bash at Hope Crossing; Brazos Adult Leader’s Cake Show Fundraiser; CEP 4-H Program

Highlights-Leadership Advisory Board Meeting (August, 2015)

North Bryan New Birth 4-H Club Development; Brazos County 4-H Banquet; Program Specialist In-

Service Training; 4-H Proclamation for National 4-H Week; Food & Nutrition Project Training;

Promote/Market 4-H Program at Oakwood Intermediate and Davila Middle School (September, 2015)

Promote/Market 4-H Program at Bryan Housing Authority National Night Out, Navarro Elementary and

Lincoln Recreation Center; Pizza Ranch-Chef My Plate Station Agriculture Awareness; CEP 4-H

Program Highlights Leadership Advisory Board Committee Meeting; One Day 4-H; Adult Volunteer

Leader & Record Book Training; Adult Leader/Club Manager/Youth Council Meeting; Harmony

Science Academy Community Partnership Meeting (October, 2015)

Harmony Science Academy Community Partnership; National 4-H Congress Delegation Orientation;

Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon; Bryan Housing Authority Appreciation Dinner; North Bryan

Community Center/Brazos Robotics Spin Club Development; Project Leader Robotic Workshop;

Harmony Science Academy Fall Festival; National 4-H Congress in Atlanta Georgia; (November, 2015)

4-H Program Orientation/Training at Harmony Science Academy; CEP 4-H Program Interpretation at

Elected Officials Luncheon; CEP Movie Premier at Cinemark; FLL Qualifier Robotics Competition for

Brazos Robotics Spin Club; 4-H Yoga for Kids-African American Heritage Museum; North Bryan

Community Center/North Bryan New Birth Club End of the Year Celebration (December, 2015)

Results As a result of the aforementioned outreach efforts, educational activities, committee meetings, trainings and

camps, we reached approximately 5,870 youth and adults. We chartered six 4-H

Clubs: Men of Distinction, Praising Y, North Bryan New Birth, North Bryan

Community Center, Heroes 4-Health Ambassador and Brazos Robotics Spin clubs

and trained 10 new adult volunteer leaders.

Below are charts displaying results from three of our outreach programs:

1. Hatching Eggs in the Classroom-Bryan High School Bryan, TX

2. 4-H in Focus Digital Photo Camp – Lincoln Recreation Center College

Station, TX

3. Robotics Camp – Lincoln Recreation Center College, Texas

Hatching Eggs in the Classroom-

Bryan High School Bryan, TX

Target Audience: 9th

Graders

Surveys Returned: 44

Total Attendance: 46

Survey Response Rate: 95.

As a result of the program, post survey included:


At the beginning of this program, many of the kids expressed that they did not know much about hatching

eggs in the classroom using incubators. Therefore, a true or false post evaluation was administered at the

end of the program. The chart illustrates a significant amount of questions answered correctly and knowledge

gained as a result of the program.

4-H in Focus Digital Photo Camp –

Lincoln Recreation Center College Station, TX

Target Audience: 3rd

-8th

graders



Survey Response Rate: 88.9%

Pre/post survey included:

Change in Understanding

Before

After

Increased

Change Photo Composition

Excellent

Good

Fair

Poor

6.3

6.3

56.3

31.3

31.3

56.3

12.5

0

93.8%

Photo Shutter Speed

Excellent

Good

Fair

Poor

6.3

0

12.5

81.3

31.3

50.0

12.5

6.3

87.5%

Photo Lighting Importance

Excellent

Good

Fair

Poor

6.7

33.3

33.3

26.7

73.3

20.0

6.7

0

76.7%

Photo Aperture

Excellent

Good

Fair

Poor

6.3

6.3

12.5

75.0

18.8

37.5

31.3

12.5

81.3%

Hatching Eggs in the Classroom T/F Questions # of participants % correct

It takes 18-21 days for a chick to hatch. (T) 44 84.1

A candler is used to view the chicken embryo inside the egg. (T) 44 86.4

It is importance to turn the eggs 2-3 times a day. (T) 44 72.7

These eggs were bought at the grocery store. (F) 44 95.5

The temperature of the incubator should always be kept at 99.5 degrees. (T) 44 90.9

It is important to add water the incubator. (T) 44 47.7

It is possible that all eggs might not hatch. (T) 44 90.9

The protective covering of an egg is called the yolk. (F) 44 86.4

It is important to always wash your hands when touching the eggs. (T) 44 81.8

A hen is an adult male. (F) 44 81.8


Change in Behavior Yes No Unsure

I care about how my photos look. 93.8% - 6.3% I am more confident. 75.0% - 25.0%

I am comfortable showing my photography work. 75.0% 6.3% 18.8%

I submitted my photo into the 4-H photo contest. 12.5% 75.0% 12.5%

I am able to name career jobs in the photography field. 25.0% 25.0% 50.0%

I would consider a career in photography. 50.0% 18.8% 31.3%

Engagement in Learning

Strongly

Agree

Agree Disagree

Adults in the program tell us about careers in photography. 6.3% 75.0% 18.8%

I get to take my own photos. 81.3% 18.8% -

I get to show my photograph in the program. 37.5% 62.5% -

I get to choose what I wish to photograph. 40.0% 46.7% 13.3%

Leadership Decision Making Yes No

Do you feel like what you learned provides you the ability

to make better decisions?

62.5%

37.5%

As a result of this program, there was significant change in the level of understanding in photo composition,

shutter speed, lighting importance and aperture. Results also indicate increased positive behavior change,

engagement in learning and decision making.

Robotics Camp – Lincoln Recreation Center College Station, Texas

Target Audience: 3rd

-8th

graders

An evaluation instrument (pre/post) was delivered to (21) youth and

(10) youth returned completed evaluation utilized to measure

programmatic impact on the students of the 4-H Robotics Summer

Camp.



Survey Response Rate: 47.6%

Pre/post survey included:

2015 Excellent Level of Understanding

Meaning and understanding of 4-H Set Abilities

(Excellent Rating)

# of

Participants

Before

Program

After

Program

My understanding of the scientific method concept 10 0% 50%

My understanding of the 4-H SET Abilities to Compare

and/or Observe

10

0%

40%

My understanding of the 4-H SET Abilities to Question

and/or State a Problem

10

0%

40%

My understanding of the 4-H SET Abilities to Predict

and/or Test

10

0%

50%


I am more comfortable working in a team

because I have participated in the 4-H Science

activity

10

100.0%

-

-

Results indicate participants of the 4-H Robotics Camp educational program met the objective of increased

knowledge in science, technology, math and agriculture. The greatest level of understanding and behavior

changes were for the topics in critical thinking, public speaking and teamwork in conducting science

experiments. The research also demonstrates a significant amount of youth who participated are interested in a

career in Science

Future Program The future plans for the CEP 4-H program are to continue to grow the program, and provide visibility to new

areas of the 4-H program. This upcoming year, our focus will be on Robotics, and Food & Nutrition projects,

Club Development, and creating more opportunities for adult volunteers to lead. We also anticipate recruiting

more youth to participate in County, District, and State Roundup Contests.

Behavior Change

# of

Participants

Yes No Not Sure

I will be able to question things using the

scientific method.

10

100.0%

-

-

I will be able to develop a hypothesis to test a

theory or an idea.

10

80.0%

-

20.0%

I will be able to implement a research concept

using the scientific method.

10

80.0%

-

20.0%

I am interested in a career in science. 10 50.0% - 50.0%

I am more comfortable with speaking with

others because I have participated in the 4-H

Science activity.

10

100.0%

-

-


2015 Brazos County Community & Economic Development Outreach Summary

Developed by Cullen D. Tittle, Brazos County Extension Agent – Agriculture and Natural Resources with

support from Flora Williams, Brazos County Extension Agent – Family & Consumer Sciences, Jerod Meurer,

Brazos County Extension Agent – 4-H & Youth Development

Relevance: According to Census data, Brazos County is the 23rd

fastest growing county in Texas with a 27%

growth rate from 2000-2010. Brazos County is located in the Golden Triangle of Texas and is home to Texas

A&M University, Scott and White Health Center, Sanderson Farms, and several other industries. Along with its

business friendly culture, the county also boasts an excellent school system. As population increases, it is vital

that there are programs and activities to promote the local communities.

Response: Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Agents in Brazos County serve on many local boards and civic

groups to help play a role in bringing events and programs to the residents of Brazos County. These activities

include:

• Brazos Valley Fair and Rodeo – This event is open to exhibitors and fairgoers from across the State of Texas.

Brazos County Extension Agents serve on the Brazos Valley Fair and Expo Executive Committee and also as

co-superintendents for the competitive livestock events.

• Bryan/College Station Chamber of Commerce – Agents serve on the Chamber of Commerce Ag Council. In

conjunction with the Tri-County Crops Committee, the Ag Council hosts the annual Taste of the Brazos Valley

Breakfast

• Southern Classic Youth Livestock Experience – The Brazos County Office is instrumental in hosting the

Southern Classic Youth Livestock Experience for Southeast District 9. Agents recruit participants and secure

sponsorships for this event.

• Brazos County Youth Livestock Show – The Brazos County Office is instrumental in assisting the BCYLS

board plan and conduct the annual county livestock show. The hosting the Southern Classic Youth Livestock

Experience for Southeast District 9. Agents recruit participants and secure sponsorships for this event.

Results: The Brazos Valley Fair was highly successful in its fourth year with a total attendance exceeding

20,000. The livestock show continues to grow. The fair awarded over $33,000 in prize monies to contestants in

all competitive events.

The Taste of The Brazos Valley was attended by over 300 chamber of commerce members from across the

Brazos Valley. The program showcased food grown locally that was prepared and served by local farmers and

agricultural producers.

The Southern Classic Youth Livestock Experience was attended by over 300 participants from 15 counties.

Future Plans: Continue assisting community leaders in developing fun educational activities that will provide

safe learning opportunities for Brazos County residents and the surrounding Brazos Valley.


Extension Education in Brazos County

Personnel Cullen “Dusty” Tittle County Extension Agent – Agriculture & Natural Resources Flora Williams County Extension Agent – Family & Consumer Sciences Jerod Meurer County Extension Agent – 4-H & Youth Development Arvitta Scott County Extension Agent (CEP) –4-H & Youth Development Charla Anthony Program Assistant – Horticulture Priscilla Hammond Extension Assistant–BLT Ashley Skinner Program Assistant–4-H & Youth Development Emily Besser Administrative Secretary Gina Hoyt Administrative Secretary Janice Anderson Administrative Secretary Charlotte Hold Administrative Secretary e-mail: [email protected] http://brazos.agrilife.org http://www.facebook.com/brazosagnr http://www.facebook.com/brazosfcs http://www.facebook.com/brazos4h https://www.facebook.com/pvamucep4h

Contact Us Texas AgriLife Extension Service Brazos County 2619 Hwy 21 West Bryan, Texas 77803 Tel. (979) 823-0129 Fax 9979) 775-3768

mailto:[email protected]

http://brazos.agrilife.org/

http://www.facebook.com/brazosagnr

http://www.facebook.com/brazosfcs

http://www.facebook.com/brazos4h

https://www.facebook.com/pvamucep4h

extension education in brazos county...

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