Production and Economic Challenges Facing Crop ProducersPlan of Work

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Montgomery County CES

Title:
Production and Economic Challenges Facing Crop Producers
MAP:
Crop Production Sustainability
Agents Involved:
Hamilton & Comer
MAJOR PROGRAM 1:
Grains
MAJOR PROGRAM 2:
Tobacco
MAJOR PROGRAM 3:
Hemp
MAJOR PROGRAM 4:
Volunteer Development
Situation:

Crop Production is vital to Montgomery County's Agricultural economy. As traditional crop production margins tighten, management strategies that enhance productivity and marketing opportunities will improve long-term viability of traditional crop systems in the county. Horticulture production and marketing opportunities are growing in interest as well.

Long-Term Outcomes:

Enhance profit margins for crop producers 
Minimize environmental impact of air, soil, or living area
Improve sustainability of crop production systems
Improved soil health and reduced erosion

Intermediate Outcomes:

Implement routine soil sampling and follow soil fertility recommendations
Use diagnostic services to identify weeds, Insects and diseases
Implementation of on-farm demonstrations 

Initial Outcomes:

Increased soil testing numbers

Increase awareness of Extension resources

Increase awareness of land use capabilities.


Evaluation:

Initial Outcome: Awareness of current land grant research concerning crop production
Awareness of variety trial information
Enhance knowledge of crop production practices

Indicator: Increased activity in crop production

Method: Promotion of economics and benefits

Timeline: 2021-22

Intermediate Outcome: Implement routine soil sampling and follow soil fertility recommendations
Use diagnostic services to identify weeds, insects and diseases
Increased openness to try alternative/improved crop production methods
Implementation of on-farm demonstrations 

Indicator: Farm Income, Changes in Farm Practices, Adoption of modern research 

Method: Surveys, Farm Visits, Consultations 

Timeline: 2021-22


Long-term Outcome: Enhance profit margins for crop producers 
Minimize environmental impact of air, soil, or living area
Improve sustainability of crop production systems
Improved soil health and reduced erosion

Indicator: Farm Income, Changes in Farm Practices, Adoption of modern research 

Method: Surveys, Farm Visits, Consultations 

Timeline: 2021-2024

Learning Opportunities:

Audience: Farmers, Agribusinesses, Managers 

Project or Activity: Traditional and Horticulture Crop Production Curriculum 

Content or Curriculum: Multiple timely sessions on crop and horticulture production 

Inputs: UK specialists, co-workers, ag agencies, successful producers 

Date: 2021-22


Audience:  4-H youth and Ag education students

Project or Activity:  4-H Land Judging

Content or Curriculum: 4-H Land Judging resources; Natural Resource Conservation Service resources

Inputs:  Volunteer coach for team; travel funds to compete in state contest

Date:  2021-22


Audience:

Project or Activity:

Content or Curriculum:

Inputs:

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Success Stories

Buttercup Spray Program

Author: Gary Hamilton

Major Program: Forages

Pasture forages provide the majority of the nutrients for Montgomery County beef cattle & other livestock. Due to weather conditions, winter feeding areas & in some cases over grazing, weeds such as Buttercup have become a major problem in many pastures. These weeds compete with & reduce the availability of our desired grazing forages. The Montgomery County Extension District Board purchased a special sprayer for the ANR Agent to make available to Montgomery County farmers to help co

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