Kaufman County agents report $138.2 million in agricultural income, highlight 4‑H successes

Kaufman County extension agents reported strong agricultural income for 2024 and highlighted recent 4‑H accomplishments during the commissioners court’s quarterly agents’ report.

Tommy Phillips, a county agriculture agent, told the court the county’s agricultural income totaled about $138,179,000 last year — "almost a $43,000,000 increase over 2023," he said. Phillips attributed part of the rise to active programming and outreach, including a large turnout at the East Region AgriLife Conference and local events his office supported.

Carrie Sharp, who presented the 4‑H report, summarized youth achievements: county 4‑H members returned more than $25,000 in premiums, auction money and scholarships from stock shows and contests. Sharp said the county produced 21 division champions and nine who advanced to breed or overall championships. She also noted that two local students — Ross Heizer and Katie Jewett — advanced to the second round of 4‑H Foundation scholarship interviews for a $20,000 Houston scholarship, and that more scholarship results are expected in May or June.

Agents described other ongoing programs: Master Gardeners graduating an intern class, horticulture events, district 4‑H contests and renewed county involvement with horse and livestock programs. Phillips said staff are working on fall cattlemen’s conference planning and improvements at the county poor farm site.

Commissioners praised the agents and asked staff to provide names for a recognition ceremony; the judge’s court coordinator was asked to prepare certificates for students advancing to state competitions.