OSU Extension office continues to help farmers despite pandemic

NORWALK — The Huron County Commissioners received an update from the Huron County OSU Extension Office. Haley Evans, 4-H educator, introduced herself to the commissioners. Evans started in the position in early February, replacing Bonnie Malone, who retired after 30 years on the job. Mike Gastier, OSU extension educator, said Evans is a "shining star." "When you interview a person like Haley, you better jump on board because they don't come along every day," he said. "We're really thrilled to have Haley." Evans is from Shelby, Ohio, and participated in 4-H throughout school. She graduated in May from Ohio State University with her bachelor's degree in agriscience, education and a minor in production agriculture. "Upon graduation, I knew that I wanted to come back to this area and really make a difference with the youth involved in agriculture," Evans said. "I ended up here in my dream job and I'm really happy to be here." Gastier said this year has been difficult due to COVID-19 but things are getting back on track. He said he's been offering advice concerning farm billing issues and has contacted over 200 people. Pesticide training has also kept Gastier busy, he said. He said many trainings are online, as there are 900 signed up for the training in 10 different counties. "We'll go back to in-person when we can. This year, we're doing a mix of both," he said. "We can only have 45 in a room right now. Online we've been averaging right around 60 people." In other news, the county commissioners approved $50,000 of unappropriated funds in the Landfill Equipment Reserve Fund for a new bailer cylinder.