New agent in town

After months of searching, Eddy County finally has a new extension agent.

In a press release sent on July 3, the North Dakota State University Extension Eddy County Office announced that Michelle Gilley has been hired as the county's agricultural and natural resources agent.

Gilley, who received a Bachelor of Science degree in agronomy from Virginia Tech and a Master of Science in plant pathology from NDSU, begins her new role on Monday, July 17.

"Michelle developed strong relationships and an understanding of current agricultural practices within the agricultural community in North Dakota during her time working at USDA-ARS in the Sunflower and plant Biology Unit with the Extension Pathology team," states the press release.

"Her combination of education and professional experience, along with her connections to North Dakota, make her a welcome addition to the NDSU Extension team in Eddy County."

Gilley takes over as the county's extension agent after Chandy Howard resigned from the position earlier this year, leaving the office vacant for a number of months.

Donna Anderson, the county's part-time Family and Community Wellness Agent, has had to make do in the meantime, and was happy to see the position finally filled.

Anderson gave Eddy County commissioners the good news during their regular meeting on July 5, and she spoke very highly of the county's newest extension agent.

"I'm really excited," said Anderson. "With this new extension agent I'm very excited for all the programming."

Anderson added that Gilley has tons of experience and has done work for the Carrington Research Extension Center in the past, "So she understands this area."

Though her job doesn't start until July 17, Anderson said Gilley volunteered her time to be at the Eddy County 4-H Achievement Days on July 13-14, where she was able to meet the local 4-H'ers and see for herself the good work they've been doing.

Of course, Anderson explained that Gilley will be hard at work getting up to speed for her first few days and weeks as the county's extension agent.

"I liken coming in as a new extension agent to drinking from a fire hose," said Anderson, "there's so much information that is coming at you from the different programs that we do."

Mentoring Gilley throughout the learning process will be Rachel Wald, the McHenry County Extension Agent.

The Eddy County Commissioners were happy to hear that the position has been filled.

Commissioner Glenda Collier, who was part of the interviewing and hiring process, said Gilley was very impressive and that she "did her research" before she interviewed for the position.

"She's going to be good for our county," said Collier.

Gilley's email is [email protected] and she can be reached via phone at (701) 947-2454.

The Eddy County Extension office is located at 205 3rd Street S.E. in New Rockford, and is open from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.