Production and Economic Challenges Facing Crop ProducersPlan of Work
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
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 practicesIndicator: Increased activity in crop production
Method: Promotion of economics and benefits
Timeline: 2022-24
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 demonstrationsIndicator: Farm Income, Changes in Farm Practices, Adoption of modern research
Method: Surveys, Farm Visits, Consultations
Timeline: 2022-24
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 erosionIndicator: Farm Income, Changes in Farm Practices, Adoption of modern research
Method: Surveys, Farm Visits, Consultations
Timeline: 2024-25
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: 2024-25
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: 2024-25
Success Stories
Soil Testing - Now A Free Service for Montgomery County Residents
Author: Gary Hamilton
Major Program: Soil testing
Soil testing is the foundation of effective nutrient management to produce any crop. Different crops have varying nutrient requirements, and it is important to tailor fertilizer applications accordingly. Following fertilizer recommendations based on a soil test not only enhances crop yields and soil health but also promotes sustainable farming practices by saving money and the environment from over application. For the past two years, thanks to the Montgomery County Extension District Board, Soi
Full Story
- Acting Associate Dean & Director — Craig Wood, Ph.D.
- S107 Ag. Science Center North
- Lexington, KY 40546-0091
- +1 (859) 257-4302
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