New agent joins 4-H program

By JoAn Bjarko
North Forty News

A volunteer with Larimer County Extension is the county's new 4-H youth development agent in charge of livestock projects, general projects and shooting sports.

Wendy Woerner, who moved to Colorado in 2005, was working as a research scientist with Swift & Co. in Greeley when the Colorado State University Cooperative Extension position opened. "I always thought a job in extension would be great," she said.

Woerner has bachelor's and master's degrees in animal science from Texas Tech University in Lubbock. She grew up in a strong FFA program in Texas, while her husband, Dale, was a 10-year 4-Her. "We both have a strong passion for helping young people and training young people," she said, so they volunteered with Texas 4-H and continued that commitment in Larimer County.

Woerner started her new job April 23, joining 4-H agent Kathy Wolfe in the youth program. Larimer County has 51 4-H clubs, 1,080 members and 398 volunteer leaders. As first a volunteer leader and then professional staff, Woerner guided the county's 4-H Meat Judging Team to top honors at the state contest in April.

The extension agent exudes enthusiasm for helping young people develop life skills and contribute to the community.

Woerner grew up on a Texas farm and ranch, working with all kinds of livestock and winning numerous FFA competitions. During her college years, she coached teams, leading them to 12 national championships. She admits to being "very much a competitor."

She also served as president of student membership for the all-volunteer American Meat Science Association. "I learned how to appreciate volunteers and get the best out of them," she said.

In addition to praising the 4-H leaders, Woerner said, "We have great kids. They're involved, they're smart, they're respectful."