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Sandoval County Cooperative Extension outlines program growth, mobile services and upcoming fair
Summary
County Extension staff reported a nearly 40% increase in 4‑H enrollment, described mobile programs including diabetes-focused Kitchen Creations and Master Gardener outreach, and reminded commissioners about the county fair and an upcoming university visit.
Sandoval County Cooperative Extension presented an update to the Board of County Commissioners highlighting program growth, community outreach and plans for the county fair.
Brittney Johnson, county program director and 4‑H agriculture agent, told the board her office—staffed since November 2024—has expanded outreach and program delivery. She said 4‑H enrollment has grown by nearly 40% year over year. Johnson introduced staff and described several programs, including Kitchen Creations (a grant-funded diabetes prevention and management cooking series), a food preservation program and Mindfulness Mondays, a wellness program focusing on mental health.
Johnson said agriculture agent Bethany Abramson, previously with the New Mexico Department of Agriculture, is working with Master Gardeners, small producers and venues across Sandoval County. Extension staff described the Master Gardener corps as "very active," providing site visits, tabling at farmers markets, and assisting at community events. Johnson said the Master Gardeners do not currently have a dedicated office; resources and support are available through the county extension office.
Johnson said Kitchen Creations is statewide and national, grant funded, and delivered as a series; the county program staff take the classes to towns and pueblos "anywhere that she can have access to a kitchen," and will bring portable equipment when needed. The extension office also noted the Sandoval County Fair in July, where 4‑H exhibits and livestock will be on display. Johnson invited commissioners to meet the new president of New Mexico State University during a county visit scheduled for June 30.
Commissioners asked for clarification about Master Gardener office space and the queening process at the fair; staff said details about queening are managed by the fair board and recommended the county fair website for schedules and contest rules.
