Montgomery County was the third county created by the Republic of Texas on December 14, 1837. It is located just north of the Harris County area. It is the 32nd fastest growing county in the United States according to recent census documents with a population of almost 300,000 residents. In 1970, there were only about 48,500 persons living in the county. This is a vibrant progressive county that has something distinctive to offer everyone: fishing, camping, golfing, water sports, cultural events, civic/service opportunities, quality education, atmosphere for good health, and unique dining and shopping. It is the 15th largest of the counties in Texas covering over 1,000 square miles.

At one time, the economy was driven by farming, timber, and oil. After the Civil War, agriculture developed with cotton and tobacco being grown with a strong timer industry. A number of territorial changes, the development of the railroad, and finally an election in May, 1899 moved the county seat from Montgomery to Conroe, where it remains today.

Completed in 1973, Lake Conroe was designed to meet future industrial, agricultural, and municipal water needs as well as a recreational haven. In 1995, Montgomery College, located between The Woodlands and Conroe, opened to boast more than 30 career programs and corporate and continuing education. The University Center offers bachelor?s and master?s degrees from six area universities in more than 40 different majors.

On May 27, 1997, Montgomery County was officially named the "Birthplace of the Lone Star Flag" by the state legislature. The western city of Montgomery was the residence of Dr. Charles B. Stewart who designed the flag in 1839 for the Republic of Texas.

Other major communities in the county include The Woodlands and Shenandoah to the south, Willis to the north, Magnolia to the southwest, Splendora, Porter, and New Caney to the east. Each of these areas have unique qualities making them appealing to all who choose to visit and live here. Each of the major areas have experienced significant growth during the last decade and have made Montgomery County what it is today.

The goal of the Texas Cooperative Extension in Montgomery County is to provide quality relevant outreach and continuing educational programs and services to it residents. Educational programs are developed and targeted by a diverse volunteer base that gives leadership through our Extension Program Council and Program Area Committees.

The Texas Cooperative Extension staff consists of five professional county extension agents and one program assistant trained in the agriculture/natural resources, horticulture, family and consumer sciences, and youth development, as well as support staff who are available to meet your educational needs and requests. Specific areas of program emphasis includes: Water Quality and Conservation, Quality of Life, Resource and Emergency Management, Urban Youth Development, Youth Education, and Nutrition and Wellness.