Cherokee County

AgriLife Extension Service Office

Cherokee County is centrally located in the Pineywoods of East Texas and was established as a county on April 11, 1846. It is bordered by the Neches River on the west and the Angelina River approximately 30 miles on the east. The county spans about 50 miles from north to south and 30 miles from east to west, encompassing a total area of 1,061 square miles and is home to an estimated population of 53,000 residents.

The Cherokee County AgriLife Extension Office, part of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, serves as a vital local resource center in Rusk, Texas. Through its dedicated personnel and diverse programs, the Cherokee County AgriLife Extension Office uplifts local agriculture, horticulture, youth development, and community wellness—translating university research into practical solutions that enrich lives across the county.

4‑H & Youth Development: Offers opportunities in leadership, agriculture, and life skills—supporting Cherokee County 4‑H Clubs.

Horticulture & Master Gardeners: Facilitates local gardening initiatives such as the Cherokee County Master Gardeners program, demonstration gardens, seasonal workshops, and the annual spring gardening conference.

Agriculture & Natural Resources: Delivers field days, publications, and personalized guidance on livestock management, forage production, aquaponics, water and pond stewardship, pest control, and crop management.

Family & Community Health: Provides nutrition education, cooking safety programs, car seat safety, and wellness outreach for individuals and families.

We are available for you. Come in, email, or call us today to attend an Extension opportunity or get more information on programming.


Through its dedicated personnel and diverse programs, the Cherokee County Extension Office uplifts local agriculture, horticulture, youth development, and community wellness—translating university research into practical solutions that enrich lives across the county. We are available for you. Come in, email, or call us today to attend an Extension opportunity or get more information on programming.

Visit the County Office Website

Cherokee County Staff

Kimberly Benton

  • County Extension Agent
  • Horticulture
Fax: (903) 683-1827

Aaron Low

  • County Extension Agent
  • Agriculture and Natural Resources
  • County Coordinator
Fax: (903) 683-1827

Kaitlyn Slover

  • County Extension Agent - 4-H and Youth Development
  • 4-H and Youth Development
  • 4-H Coordinator
Fax: (903) 683-1827

Stephanie Walley

  • County Extension Agent - FCH
  • Family and Community Health
Fax: (903) 683-1827

Jennifer Crowley

  • Cherokee County Secretary
  • Support Staff
Fax: (903) 683-1827

Resources Available in Cherokee County

AgriLife Extension offers key programs across the state that are organized and supported at the county level. Click the links below for more information about local programming or contact your county office.

Upcoming Cherokee County Events

Every Tuesday starting July 22nd

Back to the Basics: Homesteading Series

Cherokee County

Contact Us

Address: 165 East 6th Street, Suite 104
Rusk, TX 75785-0504
Phone: (903) 683-5416
Fax: (903) 683-1827