For J. W. “Bill” McKie (pronounced Mackey), working for the Mississippi State University Extension Service was more than just a job—solving agricultural problems for Mississippians was McKie’s calling.
John McKie, Madison County retiree and philanthropist
Brad Parsley partners with Ginger Cook, local agent with the Mississippi State University Extension Service in Panola County, to deliver the 4-H Shooting Sports program to local youth.
When 10-year-old Hasib of Starkville trots his horse during therapeutic riding, he experiences a lingering calmness that his mother attributes to the experience he shares with his horse.
Hasib, equine-assisted therapy participant
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/meet-the-ninth-grader-whos-helping-restore-mississippis-oyster-reefsMedia Chronicles Demi’s SuccessDemi Johnson is just 15 years old, but she is already impacting her community through 4-H and Girl Scouts.
Demi Johnson, Harrison County 4-H’er
Welcome to Taking the Reins, where we dive deep into the world of equids, and today, we’re spicing things up with a truly unique episode. Meet our guest, Dr. Amy McLean—a world-renowned expert whose name is practically synonymous with equine excellence.
In this special episode, Dr. McLean, known for her groundbreaking work in teaching, research, and the equine industry, joins us to unravel the mysteries of one of the most intriguing hybrids in the animal kingdom: the mule. Yes, that’s right—the half donkey, half horse! Mules are not just a quirky mix of horse and donkey; they’re fascinating creatures with unique traits, remarkable strength, and a dash of stubborn charm.
Amy will take us on a journey through her extensive career, shedding light on how mules and donkeys are managed across the globe, from lush pastures to rugged terrains. We’ll delve into the quirks of mules—like their incredible endurance and their surprising intelligence—and discover why these half-horse, half-donkey hybrids are used in many countries.
So buckle up as we explore the world of mules with Dr. Amy McLean. This episode of Taking the Reins promises to be a good time!
Amy McLean, Ph.D. | UC Davis Department of Animal Science
Full interview can be watched on YouTube at Taking the Reins Mississippi State University
Closed captioning available on YouTube also
Lincoln County Master Gardeners have been bringing gardening to nursing home residents in Brookhaven since 2018.
Bill Perkins, Lincoln County Master Gardener
Halloween spending is expected to reach $11.6 billion this year, and many of those purchases will become waste. Check out these tips for ways to have a more sustainable holiday.
Empty household containers can turn into fun Halloween decorations with a little imagination. Photo by AnnRomb/stock.adobe.com
More than 80 grade-school students from Choctaw Tribal Schools visited Mississippi State University in March to participate in Choctaw Preview Day.
Leaders at Choctaw Preview Day included, from left, Ra’Sheda Forbes, Mississippi State University vice president for access, opportunity and success; Tia Grisham, Misissippi Band of Choctaw Indians representative of the Youth Opportunity Program; and Mariah Morgan, interim department head of the MSU Extension Center for 4-H Youth Development.
Whether it’s related to his work or his sons, Iuka logger Jonathan Cutshall’s path often intersects with the Mississippi State University Extension Service.
Rural water systems in Mississippi face some daunting challenges when it comes to upgrades and improvements. Funding ranks at the top of those challenges.
