Decatur County has a new Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent, and he is excited to tackle the challenges ahead and do whatever it takes to help the farmers in the community.

Kyle Brown, born in Maryland and raised in Cairo, graduated with a master’s of science in plant pathology from the University of Georgia. Now the 25-year-old has returned to Southwest Georgia to continue in a career he loves.

“I grew up on a pecan farm,” Brown said. “So I kind of knew I liked agriculture growing up on the farm. I was going into physical therapy and started doing internship hours and stuff like that, and I realized I wasn’t going to be happy unless I did the agriculture thing.”

Brown grew up on a pecan farm started by his granddad in Cairo. It was his granddad that encouraged him to pursue a career in agriculture.

He started work in Decatur County on Sept. 1. The biggest challenge Brown has encountered over the first month? Getting questions he doesn’t know the answers to.

“You learn every day, and I think that’s what I enjoy the most,” Brown said. “I think UGA got me pretty well-prepared, and I have a pretty good background in (agriculture). But there’s a lot I have to learn too, there’s no doubt about it. But I’m willing to do whatever it takes to be the best I can be so I can help farmers.”

Decatur County Extension Coordinator Lindsey B. Hayes said that Brown has already proved to be a great asset in his first month as ag agent and she couldn’t be more excited to have him on the team.

“He brings such enthusiasm and a positive outlook to every situation,” Hayes said. “He truly strives to help others, whether it is homeowners, growers or producers. His dedication to Decatur County is already evident and he has hit the ground running during a very busy season. As he continues to become more familiar with the county and clients of our area, I know he will be looked upon as a fountain of knowledge and passion for carrying out the University of Georgia land-grant mission.”

Brown replaces former Decatur County extension agent Justin Ballew, who left the position late last year.

In his spare time, Brown loves to hunt, fish and play golf.

To meet Brown, visit the Decatur County Agriculture Extension Office at 101 Ag Ln. in Bainbridge or call (229) 248, 3033.