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New MSU beef specialist plans educational focuses
STARKVILLE, Miss. -- Cobie Rutherford, the new beef cattle associate with the Mississippi State University Extension Service, plans to deliver educational programs to producers and students across the state.
A native of Town Creek, Alabama, Rutherford grew up on an Angus farm in the northwestern part of the Alabama. He showed cattle in 4-H and FFA for almost a decade.
“Youth programs like 4-H lay a strong foundation for future cattle producers,” he said. “We want to help producers raise healthy cattle with the best management practices.”
Rutherford received his bachelor’s degree in animal science in 2006 and his master’s degree in breeding and genetics in 2010, both from Auburn University. He served the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association as the marketing coordinator for the Beef Network from 2009 to 2012. Most recently, he worked for the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association as director of industry relations and youth programs.
John Blanton, head of the MSU Department of Animal and Dairy Science, said filling this position has been a priority in 2015.
“Mississippi has a very strong youth livestock program in 4-H and FFA, and we have some of the best cattle producers in the country,” Blanton said. “These groups will benefit from the educational programs and networking opportunities that Cobie is ready to deliver.”
Rutherford can be reached through county Extension offices or by email at cobie.rutherford@msstate.edu.
