Improved Efficiencies in Livestock, Tobacco, Forages and Grain Production
Agriculture and Natural Resources
Gary Hamilton
Beef
Forages
Grain Crops
Forages
The Bath County Agricultural Development Council and other Agricultural Commodity Groups have identified that the dramatic increases in energy and input prices have placed a heavy burden on producers and agribusinesses. These higher inputs continue to lower the farm family’s annual net income.
A productive, profitable, competitive, and sustainable agriculture production and market system will be viable in Bath County.
Producers will begin to employ efficiency practices in all aspects of their farming operations. Farmers will assess new income generating practices for their farms and proceed with those that reflect the potential for profitability.
Farmers will acquire new knowledge and skills from Extension sponsored programs. Management of farms will improve in the areas of production efficiencies, energy conservation, marketing, and adding value to their commodities.
Initial Outcome:
Indicator:
Method:
Timeline:
Intermediate Outcome: Increase production & management of crops and livestock
Indicator: Yield data, extended grazing vs. feeding hay , livestock numbers and animal condition
Method: Producer meetings, demonstrations, & mass media
Timeline: Throughout year
Long-term Outcome: Stability of net farm income.
Indicator:Net farm income
Method: Survey, interview, NASS data, and an assessment of the total farm income.
Timeline: Fall, 2016; assess the production year to see where efficiencies have been utilized; conduct educational program throughout the winter months on new enterprise opportunities and marketing strategies
Audience: Farm Families
Project or Activity: County Agricultural Field Day
Content or Curriculum: Forage, Grain and Livestock Production
Inputs: Producer, Volunteers, Farm Organizations, Commodity Groups and UK Specialists
Date: August
Audience: Beef Cattle Producers
Project or Activity: Beef Production Meetings
Content or Curriculum: Health, Nutrition, Handling Facilities, Legislation, Environmental, Financial
Inputs: UK Specialists and Ag Business
Date: August, October, January, April, June
Audience: Tobacco, Grain and Forage Producers
Project or Activity: Agricultural Commodity Night
Content or Curriculum: Production Update
Inputs: UK and USDA, MSU, Private Industry
Date: January
Author: Robert Amburgey
Major Program: Beef
A major emphasis this year has been on improving livestock management within the county. The goal this year has been focused on improved grazing strategies and pasture utilization. To accomplish ths, the Bath County Extension office participated in a number of educational programs focused on grazing and promoted a number of statewide efforts on the subject. The All About Beef program was conducted early on to act as a mini master cattlemen with limited sessions focused on