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 practices

Indicator: 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 demonstrations 

Indicator: 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 erosion

Indicator: 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