The Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center at Weslaco is the administrative office for the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service’s District 12. For general inquiries and assistance from AgriLife Extension Service experts, please contact your county office.
Looking for AgriLife Extension services? Contact your county office
About AgriLife Extension District 12
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension District 12 – South
The Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center at Weslaco serves as the district office for AgriLife Extension’s District 12 – South, supporting Extension professionals and communities across South Texas.
District 12 serves a diverse and rapidly growing population, characterized by strong agricultural traditions, vibrant rural and urban communities, and unique social, economic, and environmental challenges. The district includes counties that range from highly urbanized to predominantly rural, with wide variation in population size, resources, and local needs.
District 12 4-H Youth, Volunteers, and Community Engagement
District 12 plays a critical role in delivering positive youth development opportunities through 4‑H. Extension programs support thousands of youth annually through:
- Organized 4‑H clubs
- School‑based enrichment programs
- Special interest activities, leadership development, and competitive events
County Extension programs rely heavily on a strong volunteer base. Extension agents train and support thousands of volunteers each year, who amplify AgriLife Extension’s reach by assisting with educational programming, youth development, and community initiatives throughout the District.
County Extension and Research Solutions for Texans
County Extension agents in District 12 deliver research‑based education and conduct result demonstrations and applied research, which are among the most effective tools for sharing proven practices in agriculture, natural resources, family and community health, and youth development.
Extension specialists and agents collaborate with producers, community organizations, and development groups to:
- Plan and implement applied research and demonstrations
- Evaluate and analyze results
- Publish and distribute findings that support informed decision‑making
These efforts ensure that science‑based solutions reach producers, families, and communities in practical and relevant ways.
Historical Extension in South Texas
Extension programming in South Texas has deep roots, grounded in the land‑grant mission of neighbors helping neighbors. Since the establishment of the Cooperative Extension Service following the Smith‑Lever Act, Extension professionals in what is now District 12 have worked alongside producers, families, and communities to adapt to change and meet emerging challenges.
District 12 faculty and staff continue this tradition today, combining innovation with trusted relationships to support the people of South Texas in the 21st century.
Dr. Andrea A. Valdez
District Extension Administrator
Jason Ott
Regional Program Leader, Agriculture & Natural Resources
Shea Nebgen
Regional Program Leader, Family & Community Health
