Holmes County OSU Extension Reviews 2025 Successes, Plans 2026 Growth

Ohio State University Extension educators in Holmes County wrapped up a review of 2025 programming and set modest expansion goals for 2026, focusing on youth development, agricultural outreach, and community driven partnerships. The staff cited a year of broad engagement across key initiatives, from the State Cow Calf School at Paint Valley Farms to Coffee & Conservation events, LifeSkills Camp, an equine series, and the Tom Graham 5th Grade Farm Tours.

Program statistics underscore the scale of local participation. Extension records show 982 projects carried out by 458 youth, an average of about 2.1 projects per participant, reflecting intensive involvement in hands on learning and leadership. The county also reported 142 pressure canners tested, a robust level of food safety activity that helps reduce home canning related illness and supports household food preservation. Educators noted significant growth in the 4 H dog program after purchase of new equipment funded by a grant, alongside expanded food preservation and family consumer programming.

The Extension team emphasized maintaining core services while seeking community driven partnerships to guide future growth. Educators Janessa Hill, Sarah Neel, Kate Shumaker and their colleagues signaled continuity in outreach methods, including continued production of newspaper columns and on air segments to promote programming and reach residents across the county.

The local implications are practical and economic. Strong youth programming strengthens the pipeline of agricultural knowledge and civic skills that support farm family succession and local business operations. Increased home food preservation capacity can reduce household food costs and food waste, while widespread pressure canner testing addresses public health risks and preserves consumer confidence in local food systems. The SNAP ED transition noted by staff will require careful coordination to ensure continued nutrition education for low income households as administrative frameworks evolve.

Looking ahead to 2026, Extension leaders intend to keep core offerings steady and pursue modest expansion where community demand and partnership resources allow. For Holmes County residents, that means continued access to hands on agriculture and family consumer education that supports local livelihoods, home safety and long term community resilience.