Bob Hamblen Receives Distinguished Service Award from Colorado State Cooperative Extension Professional Fraternity

Bob Hamblen, director of the Boulder County office of Colorado State University Cooperative Extension, has received the Distinguished Service Award from Epsilon Sigma Phi, Cooperative Extension’s professional fraternity. The award, which recognizes outstanding contributions to the organization, was presented at an awards ceremony in Fort Collins on Thursday, Sept. 22.

Hamblen’s focus as an agricultural agent and then as county director has been to address educational needs for people living on small acreages. His efforts have included providing information to businesses involved in small acreages such as real estate companies, as well as to owners.   

Hamblen has been instrumental in educating Boulder County and local residents about how to manage their small acreage, and he started a volunteer program within the county to address various small acreage issues. He implemented training programs for realtors to educate them about rural and small acreage issues. Hamblen also coordinated the first waste oil recovery program in the area, with more than 5,000 gallons collected in Larimer County alone. He also coordinated collecting pesticides, including more than 3,000 containers of old and unused chemicals that were gathered from residences and rural homes for proper disposal.  

He has also helped to address the needs of local farmers who are forced to move off their land because of financial issues.

Hamblen has served Cooperative Extension in other capacities as well. He has been a member of local, state and national committees and professional organizations. He also has been recognized with various awards from Colorado State Cooperative Extension and outside organizations.

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