Sidney native appointed extension educator for beef systems in northern Panhandle

Jack Arterburn has been appointed Extension Educator for beef systems for the northern Panhandle.

His appointment was announced by Dr. Jack Whittier, Director of Research and Extension for the Panhandle. He began his duties Aug. 29, based at the Nebraska Extension Office in Rushville.

Arterburn will be responsible for Extension beef systems programming primarily in the northern Panhandle counties of Sioux, Dawes, Box Butte, and Sheridan. He also will design, develop, deliver and evaluate programs for statewide Extension education programs in beef systems. He will work in a multi-disciplinary team of Extension professionals and other partners.

Extension's program for beef and grassland systems focuses on improved profitability and sustainability; animal care to improve health, well-being and product quality; enhanced resiliency of beef businesses; and expanded consumer and youth awareness.

"We are very pleased to welcome Jack to the Panhandle District," Whittier said. "He brings a great deal of talent in range and livestock management. This is very important to the western Sandhills area where he is located. We are delighted that we can maintain a strong Nebraska Extension emphasis in this part of the state."

Arterburn received a master of science degree in natural resources sciences from UNL in August, with a specialization in applied ecology. His research focused on rangeland ecology and management. His bachelor's degree also is from UNL, in fisheries and wildlife in 2014. He has been working as a graduate research assistance since 2014, directing research, collecting data, and teaching. He also has experience as a conservation technician with Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and as a farm employee; at the Cow-Calf Unit at UNL's Agricultural Research and Development Center near Mead; and as a bank specialist. He is a Sidney native and graduate of Sidney High School.

He will collaborate with educators in Sioux, Dawes and Box Butte counties, as well as with Extension personnel throughout the Panhandle District and statewide.