Katie Bell, a native of Neoga Illinois, recently started as Local Foods and Small Farms Educator serving the counties of Edwards, Lawrence, Richland, Wabash, and Wayne. Bell, previously worked as a Local Foods and Small Farms Educator in Franklin, Jackson, Perry, Randolph, and Williamson counties. “We are very excited to welcome Katie Bell to our five-county unit and bring agricultural programming to our communities”, stated Tara Buerster, Extension County Director.

Bell earned her master’s degree in Agribusiness Economics, from Southern Illinois University. She has a passion for education and learning in agricultural systems and strives to reach diverse audiences at different skill levels. She works on multiple teams to develop and provide relevant education to community members. Bell is part of the Embarras Grazing Partnership (EGP), a multi organization team of professionals from U of I Extension, Pasture Project, The Land Connection, Illinois Soybean Association, and Champaign County Soil and Water District. The EGP provides education, outreach, and technical resources to producers interested in regenerative grazing. Bell also serves women in agriculture as a facilitator of Annie’s Project: Education for Farm Women. Annie’s Project is a national organization, that empowers women in agriculture through education and support.

Bell’s past experiences include conducting vegetable research shared locally and statewide, teaching hands-on workshops, and serving on state-wide committees to organize and host hands-on educational events. She offers educational programs on topics including agribusiness, agronomic and horticultural crops, small-scale livestock management, and backyard gardening. Bell provides researched based education and outreach on topics related to local food systems and small-scale agriculture. Ms. Bell can be reached at 618-395-2191, and looks forward to serving the residents of Edwards, Lawrence, Richland, Wabash, and Wayne counties.