Growth, Education, and Volunteer Impact Shine Across Programs

In 2024, Denton County AgriLife Extension continued to make a profound impact on the community, showcasing remarkable growth, successful programs, and exceptional volunteer contributions. With over one million residents in the county, AgriLife Extension's dedicated staff and volunteers worked tirelessly to reach as many individuals as possible, leaving a lasting mark on the lives of youth, families, and agricultural producers.

4-H Program: Empowering the Leaders of Tomorrow

Denton County 4-H grew to 372 members and 82 volunteers across 10 active clubs this year. Representing the county year-round, 4-H youth excelled in livestock competitions and developed skills in Food & Nutrition, STEM, and more. Through strong partnerships with local schools and volunteers, nearly 14,000 students were impacted, learning essential skills in agriculture, horticulture, food preparation, and nutrition.

The dedication of 4-H members, staff, and volunteers exemplifies the organization’s motto: To Make the Best Better.

Agriculture and Natural Resources: Educating Traditional and New Producers

The Agriculture and Natural Resources department engaged a diverse audience this year, from seasoned agricultural producers to first-time landowners. A key highlight was the 2024 Small and New Landowner Conference, which attracted 87 participants eager to learn about government agency partnerships, cottage food law, and North Texas land trends.

The department also achieved record participation at the 2024 Hay Clinic, where more hay samples were tested than ever before. Additional Continuing Education Unit (CEU) programs included Feral Hog Control, Wheat Field Day, quarterly private applicator training, and the annual CEU Recertification event—helping landowners safely and effectively use pesticides.

Better Living for Texans (BLT): Promoting Health and Nutrition

The BLT program, designed for SNAP-eligible adults and children, empowered participants to make healthier choices while maximizing resources.

• The Walk N Talk program, hosted at Flower Mound and Pilot Point Libraries, graduated 38 participants who learned about physical activity and better eating habits.
• The Learn, Grow, Eat, and Go program, in partnership with Lake Dallas and W.S. Ryan Elementary, taught 38 students gardening skills and healthy eating practices.
• The Growing and Nourishing Healthy Communities Garden Course, hosted with Emily Fowler and Little Elm Libraries, trained 55 participants on essential gardening techniques.

Family and Community Health: Supporting Wellness Across Denton County

The Family and Community Health unit welcomed 3 new Master Wellness Volunteers in 2024, bringing the active total to 6. Together, these volunteers logged 110 hours, delivering 34 nutrition education programs to 375 residents—a contribution valued at $3,684.

Key achievements include:

• Walk Across Texas!: In partnership with Denton County HR, 192 employees collectively walked 30,417 miles in just 8 weeks.
• A Matter of Balance: Three series were held at THRIVE and Flower Mound Senior Center, helping 30 seniors improve balance, flexibility, and prevent falls.
• Two Home Food Preservation Workshops focused on water bath canning for 16 participants, with plans to expand into pressure canning in 2025.

Master Gardeners and Master Naturalists: Volunteers Drive Impact

The Denton County Master Gardener and Master Naturalist programs reached incredible milestones in 2024. Combined, volunteers contributed over 59,000 hours of service—with Master Gardeners logging 31,000 hours and Master Naturalists 28,000. These programs reached 19,866 residents, including 6,880 contacts by Master Gardeners and 12,986 by Master Naturalists.

Recruiting and training new volunteers remains central to both organizations. Nearly 80 citizens completed rigorous 12-week intern training to become Master Volunteers, strengthening outreach and education across Denton County.

Recognizing Volunteer Contributions

In total, Denton County AgriLife volunteers contributed 76,707 hours of service in 2024. When valued at the Independent Sector's rate of $33.49 per hour, this equates to an astounding $2,568,917.43 given back to the community.

Volunteer groups included:

• Master Gardeners
• Master Naturalists
• Master Wellness Volunteers
• Denton County Ag Committee
• Family and Community Health Committee
• 4-H Leaders
• Leadership Advisory Board
• Other program area committees

A Small Team with a Big Impact

With just 9 AgriLife Extension staff members, volunteer support is essential to the success of educational programs across Denton County. Volunteers not only deliver impactful programs but also help identify the community’s evolving needs.

To recognize these efforts, Denton County AgriLife Extension presented Judge Eads and Denton County Commissioners with a ceremonial check symbolizing the $2.5 million value of volunteer service.

Looking Ahead

Denton County AgriLife Extension remains committed to serving the community through education, outreach, and partnerships. As the county continues to grow, the contributions of staff, volunteers, and participants ensure a brighter, healthier future for all.

Thank you for supporting Denton County AgriLife Extension!