Writer: Kay Ledbetter, 806-677-5608, skledbetter@ag.tamu.edu
Contact: Dustin Sanders, 806-226-3021, dustin.sanders@ag.tamu.edu
CLAUDE – Dustin Sanders, a native of Claude, has been hired as the new Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service agriculture and natural resources agent for Armstrong County, effective Jan. 6, according Brandon Dukes, AgriLife Extension district administrator in Amarillo.
Sanders will spend January participating in the First Step training program and then begin in the Armstrong County office on Feb. 3, Dukes said.
“I am excited about Dustin beginning his career with AgriLife Extension in Armstrong County,” Dukes said. “Dustin is very passionate about the 4-H program, and has many years of 4-H experience. As a former Gold Star winner in 4-H, he knows what young people must do to be successful.
“Dustin also brings a great deal of practical production agriculture experience to the position,” Dukes said. “I know he will be able to effectively communicate research-based best management practices to farmers and ranchers alike.”
Sanders has owned and operated his family farm and ranch for the past six years. He earned his bachelor’s degree from West Texas A&M University.
He said he is anxious to get started at his new job and looks forward to working both with the youth and the agriculture producers of the county.
“I was raised on a family farm and ranch and have seen many things that are good and bad in operating an agricultural business,” Sanders said. “I know how AgriLife Extension can help local farmers and ranchers, because they have helped our operation in the past. After taking over the family operation, I know what local producers are needing and facing in our county.”
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