What is K-State Research and Extension?

Our Impact on Meade County

Senior Health Insurance Counseling of Kansas (SHICK)

Every day 10,000 baby boomers turn 65, and many do not understand Medicare. In 2017, during Medicare Enrollment, Meade County Extension reached COUNTLESS individuals and saved local citizens OVER A MILLION dollars in health care costs.

Agriculture

Agriculture is a mainstay in our County. Well over half of our county's land is in agriculture production today. Meade County K-State Research and Extension provides non-bias research based information to help producers be more efficient, profitable, and better stewards of the land. We provide in county research for producers through replicated wheat variety plots, as well as many other in field test plots. We offer soil testing and fertility recommendations based on the test results. Extension played a key role in providing information to producers when a new pest, the sugarcane aphid, threatened our state's sorghum crop.

Family Life and Resource Management

Parents and caregivers who are facing many struggles may lack the resources to cope with the normal transitions and stresses that accompany caregiving. Children and adults with stable and satisfying family relationships experience greater emotional stability. Research results indicate that the first three years of life are critical in children's brain development and that effective and positive parenting and caregiving -- along with quality child care and early education -- can greatly enhance children's lives. According to recent Census, many of our children in Meade County who are under the age of five are living in poverty. School Enrichment Programming as well as Nutritional Support for School age Children provide all families with the knowledge, skills and decision-making strategies to make a difference in their lives, especially those in disadvantaged situations.

4-H Youth Program

4-H is committed to providing positive experiences for as many young people as possible, helping them "Learn By Doing" in a variety of ways. So many of our Meade County youth were served by 4-H programs, such as school enrichment lessons that offer hands-on learning opportunities in local schools. Some families choose to join a 4-H club in their local community while others enjoy focusing on special interests like rabbits, shooting sports or horsemanship.