West Virginia University Extension is happy to welcome Garrett Vaughan as the new agriculture and natural resources agent for Pocahontas County. Through his background with livestock and education, Vaughan says he’s excited to expand activities and learning opportunities available to youth in Pocahontas County.
A Greenbrier County native, Vaughan said growing up in Lewisburg “was a great experience.”
“I was very blessed to be raised in a community that is both unique and supportive, with a strong agricultural heritage and a deep sense of community,” Vaughan said. “Those experiences helped me develop an appreciation for the importance of agriculture and natural resources, and showed me the impact that education and outreach can have on a community. Looking back, those influences undoubtedly helped guide me toward my current role as an ANR agent.”
In 2021, Vaughan earned his associate degree from Redlands Community College before moving on to Oklahoma State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in animal science. In May 2025, he earned his master’s degree in animal physiology at WVU.
Between 2019 and 2022, Vaughan also competed in several livestock judging competitions and won a national championship in 2022 with his team at OSU.
Vaughan described livestock judging as highly competitive events for many FFA, 4-H and college-level participants from across the country. During these competitions, teams evaluate different livestock based on current industry standards and desirable traits. At higher levels, teams will also defend their analysis to a panel of judges.
“What makes livestock judging unique is that you compete both as an individual and as part of a team at the same time,” Vaughan said. “Beyond learning about animal evaluation, these competitions help develop decision-making, public speaking and communication skills that are valuable in many aspects of life.”
As an ANR agent, Vaughan said he hopes to use his livestock and crop experience to become a trusted resource for both producers and youth. After working with cattle, pigs, sheep and goats, Vaughan said he wants to help other community members find practical solutions to everyday problems.
Because of the role that livestock judging competitions played in his own life, Vaughan also hopes to bring back youth livestock judging and quiz bowl teams in Pocahontas County.
“Those programs provide valuable opportunities for young people to develop knowledge, leadership, communication and critical-thinking skills while building their interest in agriculture. Livestock judging had a significant impact on my own development, and I'm excited to help create similar opportunities for the next generation,” Vaughan said.
If you want to learn more about WVU Extension, visit extension.wvu.edu or follow @WVUExtension on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram.
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sg/06/25/26
CONTACT: Sam Gorski
Content Strategist
WVU Division for Land-Grant Engagement