Member Spotlight – McPherson Extension Office
Located at 600 W. Woodside, the McPherson County K-State Research & Extension Office is a dynamic and invaluable resource for the local community. Whether you’re looking for guidance on food safety, health and wellness, agriculture, financial planning, or youth development, the office offers hands-on classes and expert advice backed by research from Kansas State University. Chuck Laughlin, the County Extension Agent for Family and Community Wellness, shared the mission behind their popular Teach & Taste classes: “We try and take comfort foods, things that you enjoy, things that you’re familiar with, and then we try to give them a healthier twist.” These free monthly cooking classes not only teach healthier eating habits but also help residents make the most of what’s already in their pantry.
In the world of agriculture and landscaping, County Extension Agent Shad Marston is the go-to expert. “McPherson is a tree town and tree city,” he noted, “and I get a lot of tree questions this time of year.” From diagnosing tree health to offering lawn and garden advice, Shad provides support using research-based knowledge from K-State specialists. Whether you’re a homeowner, gardener, or landowner, he’s committed to helping you find the best solutions. “If I don’t know it, then I call my specialist… all of this is done with research-based information,” he added, emphasizing the value of Extension-backed science in everyday life.
Youth education is also a major focus at the Extension Office. Laura Savage, the 4-H Youth Development Agent, organizes creative and engaging monthly classes for both 4-H and non-4-H members. “We just went out to Maxwell this past weekend, and it was really fun. I had about 10 to 15 kids who went out and enjoyed that for the first time,” she said. Coming up in November is a photography exploration program where K-State provides cameras and students only need to pay for an SD card – which even comes with a custom handmade holder. December’s STEAM Workshop will introduce kids to science and engineering through Lego-based learning. With a wide range of programming for all ages and interests — from strength training and hand-washing education to cake pan rentals and houseplant care classes — the McPherson County Extension Office truly lives up to its mission of building strong, healthy communities through education and outreach. For more info, call 620-241-1523 or visit mcpherson.k-state-edu. The photos from Chamber Connections hosted by the McPherson County Extension Office can be seen here.