Washington County
Welcome to Washington County,
the Birthplace of Texas.
The mission of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service is to improve the lives of people, businesses, and communities across Texas and beyond through high quality, relevant education. We hope that you will find our services beneficial if you want to learn more about agriculture and natural resources, family and community health, and/or 4-H and youth development. County Extension Agents are available in Washington County with expertise in these program areas to assist you.
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service utilizes local program area committees to gain knowledge of issues or challenges facing residents of Washington County. Volunteer members of these committees help county agents identify, plan, implement, and evaluate educational programs for the residents of Washington County. Master volunteers are also being trained by Extension as Master Naturalists and Master Gardeners offering the opportunity for these volunteers to receive more intense training. Once certified, these master volunteers are able to offer their expertise to clientele. Many different volunteer opportunities are always available through Extension. Program area committees, Extension Education Clubs, Master Volunteer Programs, and 4-H Clubs are always in need of new volunteers.
Washington County Newsletter Sign Up
Use the link below to sign up to receive electronic newsletters from the Washington County Extension Office.
Washington County Resources, Publications, and Links
AgriLife Extension offers key programs across the state that are organized and supported at the county level. Click the links below for more information about local programming or contact our county office at [email protected] or (979) 277-6212.
Upcoming Washington County Extension Programs
Click the links below to register for upcoming Washington County Extension events.
Complete the intent form by June 30, 2026 to receive information regarding the 2027 HLSR Junior Commercial Steer Contest entries!
This form is for exhibitor families who hope to exhibit commercial steers (pen of steers) at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo in March of 2027. This is not for exhibitors who would like to show halter/market steers.- Please complete this form if you are a new or returning exhibitor planning to enter the JCS Contest!
- When entry forms are released (announced 6/23/26 that the expected timeline is end of June), we can get you the appropriate information!
- Please contact Kailyn Capps with any questions at 979-277-6212 (ext 1) or [email protected]
The “Texas Food Establishment Rules (TFER)” was revised and updated and will be effective October 11, 2015. A major change in the revision now requires all food employees to complete an accredited food handlers training program within 60 days of employment, effective September 16, 2016.
A food handlers course accredited by the Texas Department of State Health Services is being offered by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Washington County. Food Safety: It’s In Your Hands is scheduled for Tuesday, June 30, 2026, starting at 2:45pm at the Washington County Extension Office at 1305 East Blue Bell Road, Brenham, Texas 77833.
This 2-hour course will now be required for all food service employees to help promote the service of safe food. The certificate is good for 2 years and is valid anywhere in the State of Texas. The course is a basic overview of food safety practices that are necessary to ensure that safe food is served at your establishment. Practices discussed include good personal hygiene, cross contamination, and time and temperature abuse.
To register for the course, call the Extension Office at 979-277-6212 or register online. Registration can also be done in-person the day of the course. The cost is $20.00 per person and must be paid in full before the course begins. The class is taught in English but Spanish handouts are available if requested in advance.
Individuals with disabilities who require auxiliary aide service or accommodation in order to participate in the event are encouraged to contact our office within 5 working days prior to the program. Educational programs of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service are open to all people without regard to race, color, sex, disability, religion, age, national origin or genetic information or veteran status.
Young chefs are invited to roll up their sleeves and explore the flavors of Germany at Kids in the Kitchen: Sizzle and Schnitzel, an interactive culinary experience hosted at the Washington County Expo Event Center.
This hands-on program offers participants the opportunity to “travel to Germany without leaving the kitchen” by learning to prepare traditional German dishes while building essential cooking skills in a fun, educational environment.
Event Details:
Washington County Expo Event Center
1305 East Blue Bell Road
Brenham, Texas 77833Two Sessions Available (same program offered twice):
- July 7, 2026 | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- July 8, 2026 | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Space is limited to the first 20 participants per session, so early registration is encouraged.
Registration Fees:
- 4-H Members: $25.00
- Non-Members: $40.00
Registration Deadline: Tuesday, June 30, 2026
What’s Cooking?
Participants will dive into German culinary traditions through engaging, hands-on activities, including:- Schnitzel Fun: Learn to prepare a crispy, classic German favorite from start to finish.
- Applesauce Adventure: Create a sweet and simple homemade side dish.
- Fermentation Station: Discover the process behind sauerkraut and its cultural significance.
- Sausage Skewers: Build and cook colorful skewers while practicing safe kitchen techniques.
This program is designed to inspire creativity, teach practical life skills, and introduce youth to global cuisine in an exciting and approachable way.
About 1,000 donations are needed daily to help save lives in the Texas Gulf Coast region. That is why we encourage individuals to Commit for Life to help ensure a strong blood supply is always available.
The Washington County Extension Office is working with the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center to host a Blood Drive at the Washington County Expo Event Center on July 21, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 3:30 PM. We invite community members to roll up their sleeves and help save lives by donating blood.
Location:
Washington County Expo Event Center
1305 East Blue Bell Road
Brenham, Texas 77833Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are always welcome. To ensure a smooth donation process, we encourage scheduling ahead of time.
Every donation counts, and your support is crucial in saving lives. Together, we can make a difference in our community!
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit
https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/counties/washington-county/
Discover the magic of sourdough baking at an upcoming hands-on Sourdough Making Class hosted at the Washington County Expo. The class will take place on Friday, July 24, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Participants will learn the full sourdough process — from starter to bake — in an engaging, instructional setting. Each attendee will leave with their own sourdough starter and dough ready for the oven, making it easy to continue baking at home.
The class will be held at the Washington County Expo, VIP Building, located at 1305 East Blue Bell Road, Brenham, Texas 77833.
The registration fee is $35 per person, and space is limited. The registration deadline is Tuesday, July 21, 2026.
This is a BYOB event — Bring Your Own Bowl(approximately 4-quart size).
Young aspiring cooks are invited to roll up their sleeves and step into the kitchen at Little Chefs in Action, a hands-on culinary event designed especially for children ages 4–8. The event will take place on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Washington County Expo VIP Building in Brenham.
For just $20 per child, participants will enjoy an engaging and creative cooking experience packed with fun activities. Each child will design their own apron to wear during class and take home as a keepsake, prepare a fresh and colorful fruit parfait, create a personal tortilla pizza with a variety of fun toppings, and decorate cupcakes to enjoy and share.
This interactive event encourages creativity, builds basic kitchen skills, and promotes healthy eating habits—all in a safe, supportive environment.
Important: A parent or guardian must remain present with each child throughout the event. This ensures safety, provides hands-on guidance, and enhances the shared experience.
Space is limited to the first 15 participants, so early registration is encouraged.
Event Details:
What: Little Chefs in Action
When: Saturday, July 25, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Where: Washington County Expo – VIP Building
1305 East Blue Bell Road
Brenham, Texas 77833
Cost: $20 per child (ages 4–8)To register or learn more, visit: https://fch-program-fund.square.site
Or call: 979-277-6212Come join us for a deliciously fun morning where kids can learn, create, and share their culinary creations!
Upcoming Washington County Extension Programs
Click the links below to register for upcoming Washington County Extension events.
Complete the intent form by June 30, 2026 to receive information regarding the 2027 HLSR Junior Commercial Steer Contest entries!
This form is for exhibitor families who hope to exhibit commercial steers (pen of steers) at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo in March of 2027. This is not for exhibitors who would like to show halter/market steers.- Please complete this form if you are a new or returning exhibitor planning to enter the JCS Contest!
- When entry forms are released (announced 6/23/26 that the expected timeline is end of June), we can get you the appropriate information!
- Please contact Kailyn Capps with any questions at 979-277-6212 (ext 1) or [email protected]
The “Texas Food Establishment Rules (TFER)” was revised and updated and will be effective October 11, 2015. A major change in the revision now requires all food employees to complete an accredited food handlers training program within 60 days of employment, effective September 16, 2016.
A food handlers course accredited by the Texas Department of State Health Services is being offered by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Washington County. Food Safety: It’s In Your Hands is scheduled for Tuesday, June 30, 2026, starting at 2:45pm at the Washington County Extension Office at 1305 East Blue Bell Road, Brenham, Texas 77833.
This 2-hour course will now be required for all food service employees to help promote the service of safe food. The certificate is good for 2 years and is valid anywhere in the State of Texas. The course is a basic overview of food safety practices that are necessary to ensure that safe food is served at your establishment. Practices discussed include good personal hygiene, cross contamination, and time and temperature abuse.
To register for the course, call the Extension Office at 979-277-6212 or register online. Registration can also be done in-person the day of the course. The cost is $20.00 per person and must be paid in full before the course begins. The class is taught in English but Spanish handouts are available if requested in advance.
Individuals with disabilities who require auxiliary aide service or accommodation in order to participate in the event are encouraged to contact our office within 5 working days prior to the program. Educational programs of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service are open to all people without regard to race, color, sex, disability, religion, age, national origin or genetic information or veteran status.
Young chefs are invited to roll up their sleeves and explore the flavors of Germany at Kids in the Kitchen: Sizzle and Schnitzel, an interactive culinary experience hosted at the Washington County Expo Event Center.
This hands-on program offers participants the opportunity to “travel to Germany without leaving the kitchen” by learning to prepare traditional German dishes while building essential cooking skills in a fun, educational environment.
Event Details:
Washington County Expo Event Center
1305 East Blue Bell Road
Brenham, Texas 77833Two Sessions Available (same program offered twice):
- July 7, 2026 | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- July 8, 2026 | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Space is limited to the first 20 participants per session, so early registration is encouraged.
Registration Fees:
- 4-H Members: $25.00
- Non-Members: $40.00
Registration Deadline: Tuesday, June 30, 2026
What’s Cooking?
Participants will dive into German culinary traditions through engaging, hands-on activities, including:- Schnitzel Fun: Learn to prepare a crispy, classic German favorite from start to finish.
- Applesauce Adventure: Create a sweet and simple homemade side dish.
- Fermentation Station: Discover the process behind sauerkraut and its cultural significance.
- Sausage Skewers: Build and cook colorful skewers while practicing safe kitchen techniques.
This program is designed to inspire creativity, teach practical life skills, and introduce youth to global cuisine in an exciting and approachable way.
About 1,000 donations are needed daily to help save lives in the Texas Gulf Coast region. That is why we encourage individuals to Commit for Life to help ensure a strong blood supply is always available.
The Washington County Extension Office is working with the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center to host a Blood Drive at the Washington County Expo Event Center on July 21, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 3:30 PM. We invite community members to roll up their sleeves and help save lives by donating blood.
Location:
Washington County Expo Event Center
1305 East Blue Bell Road
Brenham, Texas 77833Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are always welcome. To ensure a smooth donation process, we encourage scheduling ahead of time.
Every donation counts, and your support is crucial in saving lives. Together, we can make a difference in our community!
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit
https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/counties/washington-county/Discover the magic of sourdough baking at an upcoming hands-on Sourdough Making Class hosted at the Washington County Expo. The class will take place on Friday, July 24, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Participants will learn the full sourdough process — from starter to bake — in an engaging, instructional setting. Each attendee will leave with their own sourdough starter and dough ready for the oven, making it easy to continue baking at home.
The class will be held at the Washington County Expo, VIP Building, located at 1305 East Blue Bell Road, Brenham, Texas 77833.
The registration fee is $35 per person, and space is limited. The registration deadline is Tuesday, July 21, 2026.
This is a BYOB event — Bring Your Own Bowl(approximately 4-quart size).
Young aspiring cooks are invited to roll up their sleeves and step into the kitchen at Little Chefs in Action, a hands-on culinary event designed especially for children ages 4–8. The event will take place on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Washington County Expo VIP Building in Brenham.
For just $20 per child, participants will enjoy an engaging and creative cooking experience packed with fun activities. Each child will design their own apron to wear during class and take home as a keepsake, prepare a fresh and colorful fruit parfait, create a personal tortilla pizza with a variety of fun toppings, and decorate cupcakes to enjoy and share.
This interactive event encourages creativity, builds basic kitchen skills, and promotes healthy eating habits—all in a safe, supportive environment.
Important: A parent or guardian must remain present with each child throughout the event. This ensures safety, provides hands-on guidance, and enhances the shared experience.
Space is limited to the first 15 participants, so early registration is encouraged.
Event Details:
What: Little Chefs in Action
When: Saturday, July 25, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Where: Washington County Expo – VIP Building
1305 East Blue Bell Road
Brenham, Texas 77833
Cost: $20 per child (ages 4–8)To register or learn more, visit: https://fch-program-fund.square.site
Or call: 979-277-6212Come join us for a deliciously fun morning where kids can learn, create, and share their culinary creations!
Upcoming Events
Extension Topics for Washington County
Texas 4-H Youth Development
Life & Health
Plants & Crops
Environment & Natural Resources
Animals & Livestock
Business & Community
Insects, Pests & Diseases
News from Across the State
Washington County
Contact Us
Brenham, TX 77833-2436
Staff Directory
- County Extension Agent - FCHCounty Coordinator
- County Extension Agent - 4-H and Youth Development4-H and Youth Development4-H Coordinator
- County Extension Agent - Agriculture and Natural ResourcesAgriculture and Natural Resources
- Extension AgentFamily and Community HealthCooperative Extension Program (CEP)
- County Office ManagerOffice Manager
- County Administrative Assistant
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- County Extension Agent - CEDCommunity/Economic DevelopmentCooperative Extension Program (CEP)Extension Agent