Okaloosa County to Break Ground on new Agriculture Learning Center

Disclaimer: We are promoting this event on behalf of a local chamber member. This event is not managed or sponsored by the Destin Chamber.

Okaloosa County will be holding a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at 7:30 a.m. for a new Agriculture Extension Office near Miss Ruth’s Farmers Market at the Northwest Florida Fairgrounds, located at 1954 Lewis Turner Blvd., Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547.   

“The staff at our Extension Office does an outstanding job of educating and providing agricultural services to the public,” said Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon. “This new south Okaloosa facility will allow them to expand on their existing reputation as leaders in research-based education. I am thankful for the work my fellow Commissioners have done to advocate for this new facility.”

The new building is replacing a storm-damaged building in south Okaloosa County. It will allow the professional staff within Okaloosa County’s University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Services (UF IFAS) Extension to offer a variety of courses, programs, workshops, and meetings. These courses will feature agriculture, family and consumer sciences, commercial and residential horticulture, natural resources, and 4-H Youth Development program areas.

“This project is a much-needed resource for the community,” said Okaloosa County District 2 Commissioner Carolyn Ketchel, who is also the liaison to the UF ISAS Extension Office. “The north Okaloosa Extension Office is such an incredible asset and we are fortunate to be able to build an equally appropriate building to serve south Okaloosa County residents and the Extension’s programs.” 

The 3,000-square-foot building will feature accommodation for large groups, a full teaching kitchen, a small laboratory, storage, and office space. Construction is expected to be completed in the summer of 2025.