Marissa Alexander, the Hardee County 4‑H youth development agent with the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), presented an overview of extension services and youth programming during the Nov. 6 meeting.

Alexander said the county 4‑H program currently lists 287 registered members, 28 volunteers and 12 community clubs, plus four special‑interest clubs (two archery clubs, one shotgun club and a sewing club). She described youth summer camps and natural‑resources activities, including a water‑explorer soil experiment used to teach water permeability.

Staff noted that pesticide certification exams are no longer administered at the local extension office; the exams have been consolidated to select locations such as the College of South Florida. The office continues to sell pesticide study guides and to assist residents in preparing for the exams.

Commissioners thanked extension staff and emphasized agriculture’s ongoing role in Hardee County’s economy and community life.