Purdue Extension highlights growth in 4-H, farm education and food-as-medicine program

Purdue Extension staff presented their annual report to the Clinton County Board of Commissioners on March 17, outlining outreach across agriculture, youth and health programs and thanking the board for yearly funding.

Amy Webster opened with a summary of agricultural programming, saying the extension ran four pesticide-applicator programs in 2025 and "helped over 400 farmers get their pesticide credits," and described local field days and an agricultural artificial insemination class for producers.

Hannah Daniels, the 4-H educator, highlighted youth engagement: "We had 82 mini 4-H members from 2024. That was an increase of 138.2%." She said there is no deadline to enroll except for livestock exhibitors and encouraged families to sign up.

Karen Jenkins, HHS educator, described health and nutrition programming including ServSafe food-management classes with a 93% pass rate and a Food as Medicine 12-week class funded by a $4,600 Health First Indiana grant that combined lessons, demonstrations and ingredient bags for participants.

Rachel Milburn, a library youth services manager and Purdue Extension board member, shared how 4-H skills translate into later success and local philanthropy. Commissioners and staff invited the public to an Extension open house after the meeting.