UGA Extension Carroll County Agricultural Agent, Paula Burke received the Georgia Fruit Industry Education and Research Award in November at the Georgia Association of County Agricultural Agents annual meeting and conference in Columbus, Georgia.  The award was given by the members of the Georgia Wine Producers Association, Georgia Peach Council, Georgia Strawberry Growers Association, and the Georgia Blueberry Growers Association to recognize an a Extension Agent for the efforts in aiding to strengthen the fruit industry in Georgia.  Ms. Burke works closely with the Vineyard and Winery Association of West Georgia and area winegrape growers and is key team member who has received $57,793 in grants to do trellis research for hybrid winegrapes.

Ms. Burke also received the Georgia Beef Education for Excellence – Georgia Cattlemen’s Association Outstanding County Agent of the Year Award.  This award recognizes an Extension Agent for their efforts promoting and educating about beef production.  Ms. Burke is the Carroll County Cattlemen’s Association secretary since 2015 and focuses on providing educational opportunities in the areas of beef cattle production, pasture and weed management, soil and hay testing and imported fire ant management.