Illinois Extension, serving Edwards, Lawrence, Richland, Wabash, and Wayne counties, proudly congratulates Local Food Systems and Small Farms Educator Katie Bell for receiving the Individual Extension Excellence Award. Bell was honored at the Illinois Extension annual conference in Champaign for her outstanding contributions to the local food systems and small farms program.
Bell began her journey with Extension in 2020 and transitioned to the five-county unit in 2023, bringing the local food systems and small farms program to the region. Since her arrival, Bell has launched a variety of innovative programs and forged valuable partnerships to strengthen the connection between the program and local communities. She has quickly become a trusted resource and expert for agricultural needs across the area. Bell’s professionalism, leadership, and readiness to support other program areas when needed have significantly contributed to the unit’s achievements.
“Katie is an incredibly smart and dedicated educator who consistently goes above and beyond for her colleagues and our communities,” said Tara Buerster, Extension county director. “She is always eager to lend a hand, share her expertise, and find new ways to improve the lives of those we serve. We are fortunate to have her on our team, and this recognition is truly well-deserved.”
Bell is recognized as Extension’s local authority on small and medium-scale farm management, specialty crop production, backyard gardening, pasture management, and more. She provides expert technical assistance to commercial farmers, specialty growers, and homeowners throughout the region. Bell holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in agribusiness economics from Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
For more information about the local food systems and small farms program in the five-county unit, visit extension.illinois.edu/elrww or contact Katie Bell at the Richland County Extension Office at 618-395-2191.