Growth, Education, and Volunteer Impact Across Denton County AgriLife Extension Programs
In 2024 Denton County AgriLife Extension made a significant impact on the community, showing impressive growth, success in program delivery, and exceptional volunteer support. Serving over one million residents, the program reached youth, families, and agricultural producers, delivering educational services that enriched lives and strengthened communities.
4-H Program: Empowering Future Leaders
Denton County 4-H grew to 372 members and 82 volunteers across 10 active clubs. 4-H youth excelled in livestock competitions and developed skills in Food & Nutrition, STEM, and more. Partnerships with local schools and volunteers enabled the program to impact nearly 14,000 students, teaching them about agriculture, food preparation, and nutrition. The dedication of staff, members, and volunteers reflected the 4-H motto: To Make the Best Better.
Agriculture and Natural Resources: Supporting Producers
The Agriculture and Natural Resources Department engaged diverse groups, from seasoned producers to new landowners. The 2024 Small and New Landowner Conference, with 87 participants, covered topics like government partnerships, cottage food law, and North Texas land trends. Record attendance at the Hay Clinic and other CEU programs—such as Feral Hog Control, Wheat Field Day, and pesticide safety training—further supported the region’s agricultural community.
Better Living for Texans (BLT): Promoting Health and Nutrition
The BLT program, which targets SNAP-eligible families, helped participants make healthier choices while maximizing resources:
• The Walk N Talk program at Flower Mound and Pilot Point Libraries graduated 38 participants in physical activity and nutrition.
• Learn, Grow, Eat, and Go taught 38 students at Lake Dallas and W.S. Ryan Elementary about gardening and healthy eating.
• The Growing and Nourishing Healthy Communities course reached 55 participants, teaching gardening skills at local libraries.
Family and Community Health: Supporting Wellness
In 2024 the Family and Community Health unit welcomed three new Master Wellness volunteers, bringing the total to six, who contributed 110 hours and 34 nutrition programs to 375 residents. Highlights included:
• Walk Across Texas!: 192 Denton County employees walked 30,417 miles in eight weeks.
• A Matter of Balance: Three series were held to help 30 seniors improve balance and prevent falls.
• Two Home Food Preservation Workshops focused on canning techniques for 16 participants, with plans to expand in 2025.
Master Gardeners and Master Naturalists: Volunteers at the Core
Master Gardener and Master Naturalist programs achieved milestones in 2024. Volunteers contributed over 59,000 hours—31,000 by Master Gardeners and 28,000 by Master Naturalists—reaching nearly 20,000 residents. A new group of 80 volunteers completed 12-week intern training, strengthening community outreach.
Volunteer Contributions: A Powerful Force
In 2024 Denton County AgriLife volunteers logged 76,707 service hours, valued at $2.57 million. Volunteer groups included Master Gardeners, Master Naturalists, 4-H leaders, and more. These volunteers helped deliver programs and identified community needs, making a lasting impact.
A Small Team, Big Impact
With just nine AgriLife Extension staff members, volunteer support is vital. To honor their contributions, Denton County AgriLife Extension presented a ceremonial check to Judge Eads and the County Commissioners, symbolizing the $2.5 million value of volunteer service.
Looking Ahead
As Denton County grows, AgriLife Extension remains committed to education, outreach, and collaboration. The contributions of staff, volunteers, and participants ensure a healthier, more vibrant future for the community.
Thank you for supporting Denton County AgriLife Extension!