SARE recognizes Franklin County agricultural agent

Martha Mobley, Franklin County agricultural agent with N.C. Cooperative Extension has been named the North Carolina Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Extension Educator of the Year.  Mobley was honored at the 2013 Carolina Farm Stewardship Association’s Sustainable Agriculture Conference held Nov. 15-17 in Durham.

Mobley is described as, “a passionate and forward-thinking Extension agent who has helped to spread the word about sustainable and direct market agriculture in her region of the state.” She has hosted numerous trainings, farm tours and events to further the knowledge about sustainable practices.

She was selected for her focus in broad areas of sustainability, her support of the agriculture producers in her area and her innovative and well-attended programs over a substantial period of time.

Mobley has worked for Cooperative Extension in Franklin County for more than 25 years, and prior to that, she worked five years as a REINS coordinating agent in eight counties, supporting the equine industry. In addition, she owns and operates Meadow Lane Farm where organic practices are used, and sells her products at the Durham Farmers Market.

The award was presented by Dr. Steve Washburn, NC SARE state coordinator and Extension dairy specialist, based at N.C. State University, and Roland McReynolds, CFSA executive director.