QI: January, February, & March
We’re Back with We Grow Union County! After a brief pause, we’re excited to bring you the latest updates from UC Extension once again. With each season comes new growth and opportunities, and as we step into spring, we take a moment to reflect on the achievements of the past season.
From educational programs to hands-on engagement, there’s a lot happening—and we can’t wait to keep you informed! Thank you for growing with us. Let’s make this season a great one!
Cultivating a Sustainable Future: Tree Initiatives Take Hold
Urban Forester Keith O'Herrin is promoting environmental stewardship through two tree-focused programs. In January and February, 1,000 tree seedlings were distributed to 100 county residents through a free giveaway. This March, over 1,000 UCPS 4th graders will participate in Arbor Day programs. Learning about the benefits of urban trees, planting trees on their playgrounds, and taking home a pine seedling to share with their families
Hands-On Learning with AgTech & Nutrition!
4-H Agent Crystal Starkes launched AgTech programming for K-5 students, covering aerial robotics, autonomous tractors, and wind energy. Meanwhile, FCS Agent Judith Hernandez (pictured) wrapped up a food and nutrition series for grades 3-5, where students learned about local food origins, nutrition, and the benefits of eating locally—even trying fresh foods from their school garden!
Spotlight on Ag Innovation: Morgan Menaker
Discover how Morgan Menaker plays a key role in shaping the future of North Carolina's agriculture through the NC Plant Sciences Initiative. From building connections to supporting innovation, his work is helping bring research to life — with a real impact on our farmers and communities.
Cloverbud Club is Growing with 4-H Fun!
Our new Cloverbud Club is off to an amazing start, giving our youngest 4-H’ers a chance to explore arts, robotics, science, healthy living, and more! Each meeting is filled with hands-on activities, sparking curiosity and building skills in a fun, supportive environment. Cloverbuds get to try new things, discover interests, and make friends—setting the stage for future 4-H success! 🍀
4-H in the Schools: Expanding Learning Beyond the Classroom
Union County 4-H is expanding hands-on learning beyond the classroom! From launching the first-ever Farm to Table Professional Development Training for educators to engaging students with robotics and agriculture, 4-H is bridging the gap between technology and real-world problem-solving. See how these innovative programs are shaping the future of AgTech education!
Big News for the NC State Apiculture Program
At the March spring Meeting hosted by Union County Cooperative Extension, the North Carolina State Beekeepers Association (NCSBA) reached a significant milestone by securing the $1 million needed to establish an endowed professorship in apiculture at NC State. This historic achievement ensures a permanent faculty position dedicated to honey bee research, strengthening the NC State Apiculture program and providing lasting support for academic and beekeeping communities. As the only endowed apiculture professorship in the U.S., this position will be crucial in advancing pollinator health and agricultural sustainability.
Union County Cattlemen’s Association
The Union County Cattlemen’s Association meets monthly to bring speakers and relevant educational topics to benefit cattle producers for the area. The topics for 2025 have included Avian Influenza’s Influence on the Cattle Industry, Recovering from Fall Armyworm Damage, and EPD’s and Genomics for the Commercial Cattle Producer.
Hatching Curiosity: 4-H Embryology Brings Learning to Life
Union County 4-H's Embryology Program brings the excitement of hatching chicks into classrooms and libraries across Union County, giving students a hands-on lesson in life cycles. With over 100 incubator requests this year, visitors can also observe chick displays at each library location and enjoy “Chicken Talk” presentations by Livestock Agent Rachel Owens.
A Blooming Success: Master Gardener Events Kick Off 2025
The NC Extension Master Gardener℠ Volunteer program of Union County started the year strong with two successful events. On February 8th, the Garden Design Symposium welcomed 221 attendees and 12 exhibitors, featuring Preston Montague, Jay Sifford, and Mary Roberts's expert talks. Guests also explored the Teaching Garden and connected with Master Gardener℠ Volunteers. Later, on February 22nd, the first plant sale of 2025 at the Simpson Events Center drew over 70 eager shoppers, selling out most fruits and seedlings by 11 a.m.
Upcoming Events:
4-H Livestock Club: The 4-H Union County Ranchers Livestock Club meets monthly on the second Tuesday for members to learn about livestock and agriculture.
Growing Stronger with Essential Nutrients: An update on our innovative research trial on four county-based studies aimed at advancing agricultural practices and supporting local farmers with science-driven solutions.
Wake Up to Ag Week: Our Annual Wake Up to Agriculture Experience, where we teach over 3,000 3rd grade students where their food comes from, the role of technology in farming, and potential career paths in agriculture.
Spring Plant Sale: On April 26, the Master Gardeners have a plant sale from 9 a.m. to Noon at the Agricultural & Event Center Complex greenhouse. Featuring a wide selection of annuals, perennials, fruits, vegetables, and herbs!