The 2023 Discover Alabama Extension lecture features a lineup of experts who will shed light on vital aspects of Alabama’s growth and sustainability.
“This series of topics offers a unique platform to reflect on our century-old commitment to providing science-based information to the people of Alabama,” said Mike Phillips, director of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. “We’re excited to share our journey from our agrarian roots to our current role addressing the diverse needs of our communities.”
Phillips will lead off the lecture with a look back into Alabama Extension’s origins, growth and evolving role in serving the people of the state. He will be followed by Extension specialists who will cover three critical issues, including the following:
H2O Horizons: Alabama’s Abundant Water Resources
Speaker: Eve Brantley, Auburn professor and Extension specialist
Alabama is a water-rich state, where the rivers and reservoirs are home to species found only in Alabama. They supply drinking water, power, irrigation, navigation and recreational opportunities. The Gulf Coast has a long tradition of tourism and prosperous seafood industries. New demands from increasing population in the Southeast, climate uncertainty and changes in land use underscore the importance of science-based management of our water resources.
A Changing Landscape: Exploring the Evolution of Crop Production
Speaker: Eros Francisco, Auburn assistant professor and Extension specialist
Crop production has been significantly impacted over the recent decades by new genetic traits, management practices and breeding. These impacts have allowed farmers to successfully grow profitable and sustainable crops. This talk will highlight recent changes in crop production and what to expect in the near future.
Live Well Alabama: Empowering Communities to Make the Healthy Choice the Easy Choice
Speaker: Katie Funderburk, SNAP-Ed program coordinator and Extension specialist
Extension has long been a trusted source of nutrition and health information. As obesity and diet-related chronic diseases are better understood, the need for community-driven approaches to improve access to healthy food and physical activity for all has come to the forefront. Learn about the innovative approaches Live Well Alabama has taken to help communities create change from within toward a future where all people have access to nutritious food to fuel active lives.
Extension Week activities run Oct. 23-28 at Auburn University. This lecture is just one of the many ways Alabama Extension delivers solutions for life’s everyday challenges. Extension educators are strong community partners, bringing practical ways to support homes, farms, people and communities. There is more to discover at www.aces.edu/discover.
