History

Auburn University led initiatives in Alabama's Black Belt extend over many years beginning with the development of agricultural extension offices and experiment stations throughout the region. Following the development of the agricultural extension offices, Cooperative Extension begin to offer community development programs.

These programs, created in 1980, were provided by extension agents and are considered as early attempts to engage residents throughout this region in development strategies. As a result of many of the development programs, in 1982 the Fish Farming Center was established in Greensboro, Alabama. This center provides statewide educational and technical assistance in all aspects of fish farming.

As a result of this center, the number of fish farmers in this region has approximately doubled. Since the development of the Fish Farming Center, Auburn University has continued to work on projects with residents, governmental agencies, school systems and grassroots organizations to advance this region.

For Additional Information Contact

Dr. Royrickers Cook
Assistant Vice President of University Outreach
213 Samford Hall
Auburn University, AL 36849
phone: 334-844-5700; fax: 334-844-4780
cookroy@auburn.edu