May 2021 Director's Message
Colleagues,
I’ve had several chances to visit with our agents and specialists in the past few weeks, at a 4-H event in D9, the Spring Board meeting in Brownwood, two District program planning meetings, and other activities. During those discussions, I can’t help but feel the tangible energy emanating from this agency. As we reflect on the rollout and implementation of the Helping Texans Thrive strategic plan, engaging with steering committees and in the many conversations we’ve had across the agency, I am very excited for our future. The steering committees that have begun are going very well, and we look forward to announcing more opportunities to engage with these groups moving forward.
In line with Texas A&M University and The Texas A&M University System, and with the expectation that vaccines will be widespread and serious cases of COVID-19 will be at low levels, we expect to be operating fully in person in the fall. I look forward to seeing everyone as AgriLife Extension continues to return to levels of normalcy.
What shone through for me in the past year is your unwavering support and commitment to the agency and the people we serve, displaying the values of excellence and selfless service. You’ve been here for Texas, and you’ve been here for each other through a difficult year, and I thank you.
I look forward to the close of the legislative session and sharing a budget update with you very soon. As we return to “normal” — I know life is anything but normal from this point on — we’ve grown, and we’ve learned a great deal together. Here’s to the future of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.
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Stay safe,
Jeffrey Hyde
Director, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension
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Many of you have seen or heard about the Governor Abbot’s latest Executive Order No. GA 36 issued on May 18. The order applies to our agency and facilities across the state. This communication serves as a follow-up and reinforcement to the message that you also received from Vice Chancellor Patrick Stover on May 19.
The safety of our employees, volunteers, clientele and communities has been our priority since day one. Decision-making regarding external programming should continue to be made at the local level, led by Extension employees working with local health authorities and county emergency management leadership. These decisions should be grounded in the guidance provided by the Governor’s office in consultation with CDC guidance and data from DSHS. We encourage you to always consider the health and safety of those populations that may be more at risk due to age or health status.
The following serve as clarification for EXTERNAL Extension events:
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1) All programs should have an attendance or registration list with at least a name and contact phone number for all participants. These will be used for contact tracing as needed.
2) For ALL overnight events, the Extension COVID Screening form will be required in addition to daily temperature checks.
3) Those planning overnight events will be required to submit a preparedness plan at least two weeks prior to the event.
4) For external agency face-to-face group events, please follow the appropriate protocols identified by the Governor’s office:
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Other Notes:
There shall be NO EFFORT (including casual comments made publicly or privately) to DISCOURAGE the use of face coverings or any COVID related safety precaution in office settings or program sites by any employee. Similarly, efforts of this nature on the part of clientele should be discouraged as well. Those who wish to wear masks and practice COVID protocols should be respected and their wishes supported.
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Renchie receives Pesticide Stewardship Alliance Award |
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AgriLife Photoshelter is live! |
Photoshelter is the new home to AgriLife's digital media repository. This curated collection of high quality photography is constantly growing — so check back often! Images are searchable and available for download and immediate use for all AgriLife employees.
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This popular research- and evidence-based curriculum project of the International Junior Master Gardener® Program introduces elementary aged children to gardening, nutrient-dense food experiences, and physical activity, and encourages school and family engagement.
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This course introduces homeowners, DIY hobbyists, and future commercial farm operators to the world of aquaponics.
Attendees will become familiar with:
- The general concept of aquaponics.
- The different types of aquaponic systems.
- What you will need to get started.
- What you can grow.
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