John Benner

The Augusta County Animal Science Extension Agent provides animal science programming and support to livestock producers in Augusta, Rockingham, and Rockbridge Counties. The agent also supports 4-H and youth development in the areas of youth livestock programs and projects throughout Augusta and surrounding areas. Additional duties of the agent include but are not limited to:  support of pesticide recertification programs, soil testing and fertility recommendations, forage testing and nutritional program recommendations for livestock operations, administration of Shenandoah Valley Beef Quality Assurance programs, development of educational programs to assist livestock producers improve income, efficiency and sustainability, and support of forage crop utilization and education. The Augusta Animal Science Extension Agent serves and provides advice to various county, civic, youth program and producer organizations.

Education

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University:

• B.S. Animal and Poultry Sciences: 2012
• B.S. Agribusiness: 2012

Experience

• 2014 – Present:  Extension Agent, Agriculture and Natural Resources, Animal Science, Augusta County, VA
• 2013-2014:  Extension Agent, Agriculture and Natural Resources, Animal Science, Amherst County, VA
• 2012-2013:  Agricultural Technician, Southern Piedmont Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Blackstone, VA
• 2012: Sire Production Intern, Genex/Cooperative Resources International, Shawano, WI

"Farming looks mighty easy when your plow is a pencil, and you're a thousand miles from the corn field." – Dwight D Eisenhower