[AMARILLO, TX] The Texas Wheat Producers Board has named Kristie Keys as the 2026 Texas Wheat Agent of the Year. Keys, the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Agent for Agronomy in Castro, Hale and Lamb counties, was recognized at the annual Texas County Agricultural Agents Association meeting on July 27 in Abilene. The award recognizes Extension agents who demonstrate exceptional dedication and service to Texas wheat producers in their regions. Keys has become a trusted resource for the latest agronomic research and practical production recommendations for wheat farmers in Castro, Hale and Lamb counties. Her commitment to translating research into real-world solutions has helped producers make informed decisions on their farms. By coordinating multiple wheat variety trials each year, Keys provides producers with local performance data to help guide variety selection and management decisions. She shares those results through field days, producer meetings, email updates and direct communication with farmers throughout her counties. “Extension agents are often one of the first people farmers call when they need trusted advice or research-based recommendations,” said Scott Born, farmer from Ferris and chairman of the Texas Wheat Producers Board. “Keys has earned that trust through her commitment to local research, farmer education and being a reliable resource for farmers throughout the year.” One of her most impactful outreach efforts is her newsletter, Keys to Agronomy, which delivers the latest research findings, agronomic recommendations and upcoming Extension events to farmers across the region. Her consistent communication ensures growers have access to the information they need through every stage of the production cycle. “Our industry depends on strong partnerships between farmers, researchers and Extension,” said Steelee Fischbacher, executive director of the Texas Wheat Producers Board. “Kristie’s ability to connect with farmers, build out educational programming and provide local research insights makes her a very deserving recipient of this award.” | 
