Jason Jones
MSU Extension – Adams County
Years of Service to MSU: 18
Extension service is in Jason Jones’ DNA.
Jones is a second-generation Extension agent with the Mississippi State University Extension Service, following in the footsteps of his father, Roger, and his uncle, Daniel, both retired Extension agents. As a child, he attended horse shows, field days and community programs alongside them, watching firsthand as they shared research-based knowledge that improved lives and strengthened communities.
“Seeing how they positively impacted people with knowledge was the biggest motivator for me to pursue this career,” Jones said.
Growing up on a 40-acre farm in Perry County, Jones was immersed in agriculture. His family raised crossbred cattle and horses and maintained vegetable gardens, teaching him the value of hard work, responsibility and perseverance. As a member of 4-H, he developed leadership skills and gained the confidence to step outside his comfort zone.
Now in his 18th year of service, Jones serves as an Extension Agent III and County Coordinator in Adams County. His responsibilities span 4-H youth development, community resource development, and agriculture and natural resources.
Through 4-H, Jones assists with shooting sports, awards programs, recruitment initiatives and the county fair exhibit showcase. He was also one of the first community leaders to help launch Youth Leadership Natchez, a program focused on preparing students to take on meaningful leadership roles in Natchez and Adams County. His dedication continues to help young people discover their potential and build lifelong skills.
In agriculture and natural resources, Jones conducts farm and home visits to address pond management, gardening and soil concerns. He also leads private applicator pesticide certification classes, equipping producers with the training they need to operate safely and effectively.
“The best part of what I do is meeting amazing people and helping those in need,” Jones said.
One particularly rewarding experience involved working with a community member who wanted to establish a goat farming operation. By assessing the client’s goals and connecting him with Extension and USDA resources, Jones helped set the foundation for long-term success.
“He now runs a successful meat goat farm and has hosted numerous field days and tours at his farm as a prototype operation,” Jones said. “Seeing that growth and knowing you played a small part in it—that’s what makes this job meaningful.”
Among his favorite professional memories is the 2014 Extension Centennial Celebration, when former and current Adams County Extension agents gathered alongside hundreds of community members who came to express their appreciation.
Outside of his professional role, Jones enjoys spending time with his wife of 10 years, Ashanta, and their 8-year-old daughter, Zoey. Whether fishing, exercising, traveling, attending concerts or enjoying time with friends and family, he remains grounded in the same sense of service and connection that defines his career.
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