Darrin Parmenter
Position: La Plata County Extension Office

Poinsettias can be saved, if you put the work in

As you are reading this, Beth may be taking down the Christmas tree. She is no Scrooge, by any means. Our house has been full of lights and fir boughs, and our mantle is scattere...

4-H launches new year with many opportunities ahead

October is exciting as it kicks off our new 4-H year! We are working hard on planning new virtual and in-person events for our 4-H members and community members. In November, we ...

Much has changed, but safe produce washing has not

I don’t imagine this place of social isolation, accompanied by major life disruptions is exactly what we envisioned spring would bring. But alas, here we are. Rather than packing...

How to prevent the stomach flu: A recipe for success

The emergence of flip-flops, wind and milk chocolate-colored rivers are sure signs of spring in Southwest Colorado. With Memorial Day weekend on the horizon, we’ll soon break fre...

Prebiotics, probiotics in natural foods can benefit your gut health

Many of us spend time carefully perusing grocery shelves looking for healthier foods, particularly items advertising prebiotics and probiotics. New research is showing how import...

Nutrient-dense asparagus can be prepared in many ways

Oh yes, spring is my favorite season. Calves, lambs, fawns appearing across the fields and, best of all, the asparagus! It starts appearing mid-April and ends in June. As one of the few pere...

Green chile season is here, but they aren’t the hottest peppers

There are times during the year when your senses get the best of you: the sight of the first snow, the sound of coyotes while camping or the taste of fruit picked right from the tree. ...

Randy, thank you for making the county fair our prize event

Each summer, the La Plata County 4-H program celebrates the traditions and pride of our community at the annual county fair. 4-H members bring in animals, food, heritage arts pro...

From the Extension Small choices can lead to big savings

Are you leaving money on the table? Recently, the blog DoughRoller grabbed my attention with an item about compounding. The premise was that long-term reduced spending increases ...