Rodney Leech

Unit Coordinator
Extension Agent, Agriculture and Natural Resources
Animal Science
(540) 468-2225
rleech@vt.edu

The profile for the position of Agriculture Extension Agent for Highland and Bath Counties includes general agriculture and natural resource information and animal science specialty work. Serving in two of the smallest localities in Virginia creates a broader expectation of community leadership and involvement. I find this expectation of duty as a perk and welcome the challenge of serving local government and clientele. My extended duties with Animal Science Specialty within Planning District Six, has broadened my collaborators base and kept me on the cutting edge of Agriculture for the Region.

A short term goal is to continue to support efforts in the development of a regional multipurpose livestock Agricultural Center by working with the established steering committee. This should provide needed infrastructure to enable the small family farmer to sustain their livestock enterprises and the Allegheny Highlands Agricultural Center to become the center for marketing agriculture products and live animals. Providing information and resources for citizens in the area to better their life and improve their standard of living.

Education:
1982 Virginia Tech B.S. Agricultural Education
1980 Ferrum College A.S. Agriculture

Positions:
1992-Present Extension Agent, Agriculture, Bath and Highland Counties
1985-1992 Extension Agent, Agriculture, Highland County
1982-1985 Vocation Agriculture Teacher, Highland County Public School

Honors and Awards:
2008: 3rd Place in Virginia Cooperative Extension Poster Contest
2000: Highland FFA Chapter Appreciation Award
1996: State Winner, Livestock Production Program, NACAA
1993: State Winner, Livestock Production Program, NACAA
1993: Livestock Hedging Seminar, CME and NACAA
1990: Epsilon Sigma Phi - Outstanding Achievement
1990: West Central District Outstanding Unit Award
1984: State Young Farmers Membership Award, Highland Chapter
1982: Aged Society Leadership Award, Virginia Tech
1982: Alfa Tau Alpha Honorary Fraternity, Virginia Tech
1978: Virginia 4-H All Star, Rockbridge County
1978: FFA State Farmer Degree