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After a career spanning 46 years, Steve Niemeyer is retiring from Nebraska Extension in Garfield, Loup and Wheeler County office.

Niemeyer began as an extension assistant in Boone and Nance counties before working his way up to extension educator and unit leader in Garfield, Loup and Wheeler counties in 1993.

In a career that included more than 120 county fairs, Niemeyer has steadily created opportunities for 4-H members to grow their love for animal agriculture. His primary focus in his final decade as an extension educator has been helping beef producers to manage costs and bring high quality product to market through programs on unit cost of production, forages, pesticides and invasive species.

"After a career like that, not many remember the GLW extension office before him," extension officials said. "He has helped shape a generation of GLW exhibitors. He has been a source of wisdom and provider of program history for volunteers and staff in the GLW 4-H program. Even though his direct responsibilities had not included 4-H for some time, it remained a passion and priority in his career."

Garfield, Loup and Wheeler counties expressed gratitude to Niemeyer for his years of service to its 4-H youth and proud ranching traditions.