USU Extension highlights youth livestock programming, master gardener impacts and community classes

Tom Bettis and Corianne Mangelson Topham of USU Extension presented new programming and impact numbers to the commission. Topham, the county livestock coordinator, described a youth 'Learn About Livestock' series and said Utah County’s market value of agricultural products sold exceeds $122 million, underscoring the county’s agricultural footprint and the importance of youth engagement in 4‑H and FFA.

Bettis and other extension staff summarized horticulture volunteer work: master gardener volunteers contributed thousands of hours valued at roughly $234,000 in county services, and a sprinkler-installation class had an 88 percent reported implementation rate among attendees. Cindy Jenkins described a micro-entrepreneurship class (funded by a USU mini-grant and run in partnership with United Way) and a cooking-with-diabetes program that will be marketed in coordination with the Utah County Health Department.

Presenters noted some staff were sick and that portions of the presentation were abbreviated, but said they would return with additional program details in coming months. Commissioners and attendees asked follow-up questions about program reach and continuity; presenters said they plan further reporting and potential program expansion to the county’s south end.

No formal commission action was required.