Two new University of Nevada, Reno Extension educators are connecting with their communities to assess county needs and build programs in Lyon County and White Pine County.
Hiren Bhavsar
Hiren Bhavsar, Extension educator for Lyon County, previously worked for the Tennessee State University Cooperative Extension Program, where he specialized in working with farmers, offering workshops on budgeting and other financial tools, and providing other expertise to help them be successful in their counties. He is excited to be in Nevada and have the support of the University to help him provide education in Lyon County.
“Working at UNR is a unique opportunity, where you have the support of the University while you’re helping people in your own counties,” Bhavsar said. “It’s especially important in the Lyon office, where we’re trying to establish ourselves in the community and be out there doing good things.”
Once Bhavsar completes a county needs assessment, he plans to focus on connecting community members with local resources, such as those to help with education, financial and economic guidance, and agricultural development.
Brianna Randow
Brianna Randow, Extension educator for White Pine County, previously worked at an agriculture-based private company, where she conducted training for manufacturers, and was able to interact with the local growers in her area. She’s excited to use her experience to help educate farmers and producers in White Pine County, while setting up educational opportunities for other community members as well. She, like Bhavsar, will also be assessing needs in her county.
While there is a 4-H Youth Development Program already in place in White Pine County, Randow is working to expand the program by recruiting more volunteers and youth participants. She is also hoping to set up new programs for farmers and ranchers, such as programs that explore alternative crops and feed sources.
“My main goal initially is to be present in the community, whether that be at meetings or other events,” Randow said. “I want to make sure everyone knows that Extension is here and that we have resources and services available.”
