The Mississippi State University Extension Service has officially opened its new office at 835 Highway 26 West in Poplarville, replacing the former building lost to a fire in April 2021.

The facility, covering approximately 6,000 square feet, features an auditorium with a fully functional kitchen, a smaller classroom, and office spaces for extension services. Adjacent offices house Pearl River Valley Opportunity and youth services, bringing the total building space to 8,000 square feet.

Eddie Smith, Pearl River County coordinator, and extension agent played a central role in the design process. “After the fire, we immediately began planning with the county to design a new facility that would meet our needs,” Smith said. The auditorium and kitchen allow us to host various educational workshops, cooking classes, and community programs. They can accommodate up to 60 people and are available to local organizations.

County Administrator Adrian Lumpkin emphasized the importance of the project, particularly for 4-H programs. “We have one of the largest 4-H programs in the state, covering everything from robotics to shooting sports and horse clubs. This new facility supports those programs and the community,” Lumpkin said.

The MSU Extension Service offers resources and programs in agriculture, family and consumer sciences, youth development, and community resource development. According to Smith, outreach efforts extend beyond registered 4-H participants to schools and community events, impacting thousands of children annually.

“One of our goals is to ensure the community knows what we offer,” Smith said. “From gardening and cooking classes to STEM and arts programs, we provide opportunities for all ages.”

Residents can stay informed through the Pearl River County Extension Service’s Facebook page, a monthly newsletter, and the MSU Extension website.

The new building near the county fairgrounds was praised for its functionality and accessibility. A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked its opening, and Smith and Lumpkin expressed gratitude to the county Board of Supervisors for prioritizing the project.

“The building is a significant improvement over the old one and supports our mission to improve the lives of those in our community,” Smith said.