Crooks is named state AgriLife Extension sheep and goat assistant
Writer: Steve Byrns, 325-653-4576, [email protected]
Contact: Dr. Reid Redden, 325-653-4576, [email protected]
SAN ANGELO – Sterling “Ty” Crooks became the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service state sheep and goat assistant effective Oct. 12.
Crooks is headquartered at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center at San Angelo. His primary duties will involve working with the state’s 4-H sheep and goat youth programs, said Dr. Reid Redden, AgriLife Extension state sheep and goat specialist at San Angelo and Crooks’ supervisor.
“I am very pleased to have Ty assisting me with our agency’s extensive youth and adult educational programs across the state,” Redden said. “He has a strong 4-H background, exhibits a genuine willingness to work with our clientele and has an excellent working knowledge of both our agency and the industry.
“The Texas youth sheep and goat projects typically involve some 20,000 animals annually. It’s no small endeavor, in fact, it’s one of the most popular project areas within our agency’s youth component and that of FFA.
“Ty’s well-rounded interest and positive attitude are ideal to assist not only with the youth component, but also with adult industry educational programs as well.”
Redden said Crook’s duties will include playing an important role in assisting with the state 4-H wool and mohair judging program.
Crooks holds a bachelor’s degree in animal science from Angelo State University and is currently working toward earning a master’s degree in sheep and goat nutrition at the university. He has served as the university’s assistant wool judging coach since 2013.
While attending ASU, the San Angelo native was a member of the school’s Delta Tau Alpha Honor Society, served as treasurer for the Block and Bridle Club and was a member of the Meat and Food Science Association. He was also part of the 2013 Reserve National Champion Angelo State University Intercollegiate Meats Judging Team and the 2012 Angelo State Intercollegiate Wool Judging Team.
Crooks previously was involved in ranch work and is co-owner of Crooks Club Lambs.
He fills the position formerly held by Joshua Smartt who accepted a post with the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Farm Service Agency in the Bryan-College Station area.
“This state sheep and goat assistant position has developed numerous sheep and goat industry leaders in the past and we expect more of the same with Ty Crooks,” Redden said.
