Agriculture

Brookshier departs extension

for governor’s ag policy board

Tammy Brookshier has left her role as ag programs coordinator/CAIP administrator for Shelby County to join the Governor’s Office of Ag Policy in Frankfort as a programs coordinator.

Brookshier had worked at the Shelby County Extension Office for the past 5-plus years and oversaw the distribution of ag development funds to enterprises in the county, and her interaction with the governor’s ag office led to the new position.

We have a beautiful prickly pear cactus in bloom right now that is flaunting yellow and orange blooms like a peacock does feathers. It is tucked in a garden on the south side of the house so it thrives. In fact this cactus is native to Kentucky even if most people only associate it with the desert Southwest.

When it comes to prickly plants most of us automatically think of cacti in the desert; there are others with a more subtle prick to consider for the mixed border. Look into adding some texture with Acanthus, Echinops and Eryngium.

KFB seeks to honor

best ag educators

Kentucky Farm Bureau is searching for 2012 Excellence in Ag Literacy Award nominees. The award, bestowed annually by KFB during its annual meeting, was established to recognize and reward teachers who excel in their efforts to incorporate agricultural concepts throughout their core academic studies.

Alpaca show hits

Louisville next week

Alpacas from across the country will be featured in the show ring competition next week at the Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association National Show at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville.

The show, which features class competition in conformation and fleece quality in many categories for both Suri and Huacaya alpacas, is 8 a.m. daily May 26-28.