Oldham County CES

County Emphasis:

Sustainability, Natural Resources, and Environment

Concentration 1:

Plant Production and Management

Concentration 2:

Animal Production and Management

Concentration 3:

Sustainability, Natural Resources and Wildlife Management, and Environment

Situation:

Optimizing plant, crop and forage production is paramount as Kentucky producers navigate the challenges of economics, climate variability, and evolving consumer demands. Key challenges and strategies to enhance sustainable practices across various agricultural domains include:  rising input costs (seeds, fertilizers, machinery), crop price fluctuations, knowledge of soil health, and water management to produce high yielding crops for long-term productivity.

Producers use data-driven approaches for efficient resource utilization while exploring new crop varieties for pest resistance and yield improvement. As technology advances, producers will need to adopt remote sensing technologies to monitor soil health, moisture, and other parameters to increase efficiency. Implementing conservation practices that protect soil and water resources will ensure the long-term sustainability of Kentucky farmland and improve resilience to climate variability.

Current and continuing practices involve cover crops to reduce erosion resulting in enhanced soil health as well as rotating crops to break pest cycles, improve soil fertility, and reduce disease pressure. Extension programming will encourage diverse crops and horticulture species to reduce risk and explore specialty crops, such as berries, herbs, and ornamental plants. Extension Specialists continue to educate farmers on forage species selection for hay production and livestock nutrition, advise on implementing integrated pest management and organic production practices (to minimize chemical inputs while still effectively managing pests), select climate-adapted crop varieties, and prepare for extreme weather events through adaptation and disaster readiness programs.

To meet the needs of producers, agents and specialists will continue to disseminate research-based information, offer workshops, field days, online resources, support local farmer’s markets, community gardens, community supported agriculture, and urban horticulture initiatives.

Youth Focus

Educating youth about plant production and soil science is crucial for the future of agriculture, empowering them to innovate and address current and future agricultural challenges. The National 4-H Council’s 2024 Index Survey revealed that 83% of youth enjoy science, 66% view it as a tool for problem-solving, and 62% are interested in science-related careers. The 2022 U.S. Census of Agriculture highlights trends in Kentucky, such as a decrease in the number of farms, reduced agricultural land, an aging producer population, and larger farm sizes. Key priority issues identified by the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension System Community Needs Assessment (2023) include youth life skill training opportunities, youth workforce readiness, access to affordable, nutritious food, support for the local agriculture industry, and promoting youth agriculture literacy. 4-H projects in plant production and soil science can help young people develop life skills, learn responsibility, and gain knowledge about these fields through horticulture, plant science, and soil science projects and programs.

Kentucky’s animal production and management strategies encompass sustainable practices, health-focused care, and economic viability across all species thus contributing significantly to the state’s agricultural landscape. Beef cattle play a crucial role in converting Kentucky’s vast 7 million acres of pasture and forage into valuable products. CES focuses on sustainable grazing practices and ensuring optimal use of natural resources like land and water.

Kentucky is renowned as the Horse Capital of the World and is home to a diverse equine population, including thoroughbreds, stock horses, standardbreds, and other breeds. Kentucky’s horse industry focuses on breeding excellence. Kentucky’s small ruminant producers raise various sheep and goat breeds for meat, fiber, and dairy purposes. Small ruminants thrive on pasture-based systems, utilizing natural forage with a priority on health management, including vaccinations, parasite control, and nutrition.

Poultry is the number one agricultural industry in the state, contributing significantly to the economy. Many small flock owners raise chickens for personal consumption or local markets. Implementing conservation practices that protect soil and water resources will ensure the long-term sustainability of Kentucky farmland and improve resilience to climate variability.

To meet the needs of Kentucky animal producers CES Extension will create or expand its efforts to offer need-based education and producer-focused programming for all species. Current/future activities include introducing programs to address and improve specific management systems and introduce new and emerging techniques, technology, and production systems for increased efficiency and profitability.

Youth Focus

Kentucky’s youth should have access to education and life-skills in animal production and management. According to the 2022 U.S. Census of Agriculture, Kentucky has seen a decline in the number of farms and agricultural land, alongside a slight increase in the average age of producers and farm size. Successful operation of farms and ranches requires business skills, ongoing training and education, and safety awareness (USDA, 2024). The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service Community Needs Assessment (2023) highlights key agricultural priorities, including youth life skill training, workforce readiness, access to affordable and nutritious food, support for the local agriculture industry, and promoting agricultural literacy among youth. 4-H projects in animal production and management can help young people develop life skills, learn about responsibility, and gain content knowledge about animals through breeding or market projects.

Ensuring the sustainability of Kentucky woodlands and natural resources, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, faces many challenges. Many landowners struggle to implement sustainable practices due to economic pressures, lack of access to technology, and workforce. The situation is exacerbated by development and the increasing demand for food, which often leads to the overuse of land and water resources, contributing to soil degradation, deforestation, and water scarcity.

Kentucky is blessed with a rich array of natural resources, including vast forests, abundant waterways, and wildlife. With woodlands in each of the 120 counties and forest industries in 110 counties, Kentuckians in both rural and urban areas all derive benefits from woodlands. Hardwood forests cover 50% of Kentucky and 473,000 individuals own 88% of the 12.4 million forested acres in the state. Forests stimulate the Kentucky economy through employment and production to the tune of $13 billion annually and there are over 28,000 jobs in Kentucky’s forest sector. Forests provide recreational opportunities and are a powerful tool in efforts to promote sustainability and support native diversity. Wildlife management programs assist landowners through both urban and rural wildlife management and damage control initiatives.

However, Kentucky’s forests and natural areas face growing risks. Threats from climate change are increasing as evidenced by some of the warmest and wettest years on record during the past decade and Kentucky is ranked as the ninth most vulnerable state in the country by long-term climate change impacts. Extreme weather events, such as the December 2021 tornado in Western Kentucky and the 2022 flooding in Eastern Kentucky are becoming more frequent and severe. In addition, a wide range of invasive species (including insects, pathogens, animals, and plants) can cause problems in woodlands, forests and other natural areas, threatening management and long-term sustainability.

Kentucky’s Extension remains committed to developing adaptive management strategies for the critical issues facing the sustainability of farms, natural areas, and forests for today and in the future. Implementing soil and water conservation practices in both urban and rural watersheds is critical to the long-term sustainability of Kentucky’s natural resources.

Youth Focus

Educating youth about natural resources and environmental sciences is crucial for our future, as it empowers them to become proactive stewards of our planet. The Kentucky 4-H Youth Development Program aims to boost environmental literacy among youth, addressing a significant gap in environmental knowledge revealed by surveys from the Kentucky Environmental Education Council. America’s prosperity is inseparably linked to the health of our environment. A healthy environment is an essential component of the quality of life of humans and all living organisms (USDA, 2024). Optimistically, the National 4-H Council’s 2024 Index Survey found that 83% of youth enjoy science, 66% see it as a problem-solving tool, and 62% are interested in science-related careers. The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension System’s 2023 assessment identified key priorities such as youth life skill training, workforce readiness, and promoting natural resource literacy. Through 4-H projects in natural resources and environmental sciences, young people develop life skills, learn responsibility, and gain knowledge about sustaining our natural resources through various projects and programs.

Copy and paste state situations that correspond to concentrations

County Situation:

The Oldham County Extension Community Assessment highlighted a powerful desire among residents to preserve the county's agricultural heritage and bolster its local food system. Preserving agricultural land, ensuring the sustainability of family farms, and strengthening the local food/agriculture industry emerged as the top three agricultural needs. This desire extends beyond just farming, with residents expressing concerns about land use planning and zoning regulations, the need for land and historic preservation. Furthermore, the assessment revealed interest in enhancing the community's aesthetic appeal through beautification of public facilities, expanding access to parks, open spaces, and conservation areas, and improving existing public amenities like sports and recreation centers.

Surveys from the Oldham County ANR/Hort Program Council and Oldham County Conservation District highlighted a strong desire to conserve water quality in Oldham County’s Currys Fork Watershed. This watershed includes half of Oldham County and is considered a high priority in water quality management. This refers to the prominent levels of pollutants from residential, agricultural, and wildlands that have been found in the watershed. Discussions with the ANR/Hort Program Council have also highlighted the want for sustainability programs. Programs that focus on grazing management, integrated pest management, and soil health were primarily suggested. Oldham County Extension  continues to work with the Conservation District,  ANR/Hort Program Council, and the  Agriculture Development Council in representing the wants of farmers, landowners, and residents of Oldham County. This paints a picture of a community deeply invested in balancing growth with the preservation of its rural character and agricultural identity.

 

 

Long-Term Outcomes:

Economic, social, physical, or environmental situations that will change because individuals or communities adopted new (or improved existing) actions, practices, and behaviors (these also take time to mature)). 

Increase confidence in implementing new and emerging techniques, technology, and production systems.

Horse owners will be encouraged to apply best management practices for the care and management of their horses to help control cost of ownership.  

Increase the quality of small ruminants annually contributing to increased and more stable financial position of small ruminant operations. 

Youth will be life and work ready, contributing to the agricultural community as consumers, leaders, and innovators.

Forests ecosystem and economic values are enhanced, resulting in healthier forests, improved water quality, and increased revenue. 

Intermediate Outcomes:

Increase confidence in implementing new and emerging techniques, technology, and production systems.

Youth will develop a greater awareness and appreciation for the impact of agriculture in their daily life.

Implement climate resilience strategies to withstand the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, sustainable water management, and adapting wildlife management to preserve biodiversity under changing climate conditions.

Initial Outcomes:

Increase confidence in implementing new and emerging techniques, technology, and production systems.

Horse owners will evaluate current practices and see where changes might be of benefit. 

Increase confidence in implementing new and emerging techniques, technology, and production systems.

Youth will gain knowledge and develop skills in agriculture.

Youth will explore their spark in natural resources.

Increase the awareness of sustainable forest management practices, economic pressures and technological barriers facing woodland owners and other interested individuals.  

Increase knowledge and skills of individuals in both urban and rural settings to address immediate wildlife-related challenges and enhance biodiversity.  

Evaluation:

Initial Outcome: Youth

Indicator: Number of youth who reported that they understand how their actions and choices impact natural resources and the environment. 

Method: Survey

Timeline: Administered immediately following program/activity

Intermediate Outcome: Youth

Indicator: Number of youth who reported that have applied the skills they learned in natural resources to other areas of their life, including at home, school and other programs.  

Method:  Survey 

Timeline: Administered at end of program year/club year

Long-term Outcome: Youth

Indicator: Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study.

Method: Survey 

Timeline: Administered at end of program year/club year 

Initial Outcome: Farmers, Landowners, Residents

Indicator: Number of participants who reported that they gained knowledge of wildlife, forestry, or natural resources. 

Method: Survey

Timeline: Administered immediately following the end of program

Intermediate Outcome: Farmers, Landowners, Residents

Indicator: Number of people who have began implementing sustainable practices in forestry, wildlife management, crop management, grazing management, or natural resources management

Method: Survey

Timeline: Administered at the end of the program year

Long-term Outcome: Farmers, Landowners, Residents

Indicator: Number of people who have reported instances of healthier ecosystems, pastures, and livestock as a result of sustainable practices. 

Method: Survey

Timeline: Administered at the end of the program year 

Learning Opportunities:

Audience: Farmers, Landowners, Residents

Project or Activity: Pond and Lake Management Workshop

Content or Curriculum: UK/KSU Extension Materials, KY Department of Agriculture Materials

Inputs: UK/KSU Extension Specialists, KY Department of Agriculture, KY Department of Fish and Wildlife, Local Partner Agencies and Vendors

Date: Spring/Summer 2025-2026

Audience: Farmers and Landowners

Project or Activity: Pasture Walk Field Day

Content or Curriculum: UK Extension Materials

Inputs: UK Extension Specialists, Agriculture Agent, Local Partners

Date: Spring/Summer 2025-2026

Audience: Farmers, Landowners, Residents

Project or Activity: Crop and Garden Pests

Content or Curriculum: UK Extension Materials

Inputs: UK Extension Specialists, Agriculture Agent, Horticulture Assistant

Date: Spring/Summer 2025-2026

Audience: Farmers, Landowners, Residents

Project or Activity: Forest & Pond Restoration

Content or Curriculum: UK Extension Materials

Inputs: Agriculture Agent, Horticulture Assistant, UK Extension Specialists, USDA, KY Department of Agriculture

Date: Spring/Summer 2025-2026

Audience:  4th Grade 4-H members

Project or Activity: Native Bees

Content or Curriculum: Bee Ambassadors, Nature Watch

Inputs: 4-H Staff, Nature Watch

Date: February and March 2026

Audience: Mudballs - 4th Grade 4-H Members

Project or Activity: Soil and Erosion

Content or Curriculum: 4-H Natural Resource Curriculum

Inputs: 4-H Staff, CVES Funding, Oldham County Schools

Date: October 2025 - April 2026

Audience: 5th Grade 4-H Members 

Project or Activity:  Entomology

Content or Curriculum: Hissing Cockroaches

Inputs: 4-H Staff, UK Entomology Department

Date: October 2025- April 2026

Audience: 5th Grade 4-H members

Project or Activity:   Soils Samples, Terrariums

Content or Curriculum: Project Food, Land and People

Inputs: 4-H Staff, Project Food, Land and People

Date: October 2025 - April 2026

Audience: 4-H Youth

Project or Activity: Shooting Sports

Content or Curriculum: 4-H Shooting Sports Curriculum

Inputs: 4-H Staff, Shooting Sports Certified Coaches, 4-H Parents, Community volunteers and Donors

Date: April 2025 - October 2026

Audience: 4-H Members age 9 -18

Project or Activity: Horse Club Educational Sessions

Content or Curriculum: Horse Educational Kit, Content Identified by Club

Inputs: 4-H Staff, 4-H Horse Certified Leaders

Date: July 2025 - June 2026

Audience: 4-H Members age 9 - 18

Project or Activity: Dog Club Educational Sessions

Content or Curriculum: Dog Educational Kit, Content Identified by Club

Inputs: 4-H Staff, 4-H Certified Dog Volunteers

Date: July 2025- June 2026

Audience: 4th Grade 4-H members

Project or Activity: Chick Incubation

Content or Curriculum: Poultry UK Educational Kit

Inputs: 4-H Staff, Oldham County Schools

Date: July 2025- June 2026

Audience: Youth age 9 to 18

Project or Activity: Woodworking Workshop

Content or Curriculum: 4-H Curriculum

Inputs: 4-H Council, Extension Staff, 4-H Volunteers

Date: July- September 2025

Audience: 4th Grade 4-H Members

Project or Activity: Animal Adaptations

Content or Curriculum: Project WET, Food, Land and People

Inputs: 4-H staff, Oldham County Schools

Date: October 2025- April 2026

Audience: Youth age 9 - 18

Project or Activity: Adventure Club

Content or Curriculum: Project WET, Food, Land and People

Inputs: 4-H Staff, 4-H Volunteers

Date: October 2025- April 2026

Evaluation:

Initial Outcome: Youth

Indicator: Number of youth who reported that they understand how their actions and choices impact natural resources and the environment. 

Method: Survey

Timeline: Administered immediately following program/activity

Intermediate Outcome: Youth

Indicator: Number of youth who reported that have applied the skills they learned in natural resources to other areas of their life, including at home, school and other programs.  

Method:  Survey 

Timeline: Administered at end of program year/club year

Long-term Outcome: Youth

Indicator: Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study.

Method: Survey 

Timeline: Administered at end of program year/club year 

Initial Outcome: Farmers, Landowners, Residents

Indicator: Number of participants who reported that they gained knowledge of wildlife, forestry, or natural resources. 

Method: Survey

Timeline: Administered immediately following the end of program

Intermediate Outcome: Farmers, Landowners, Residents

Indicator: Number of people who have began implementing sustainable practices in forestry, wildlife management, crop management, grazing management, or natural resources management

Method: Survey

Timeline: Administered at the end of the program year

Long-term Outcome: Farmers, Landowners, Residents

Indicator: Number of people who have reported instances of healthier ecosystems, pastures, and livestock as a result of sustainable practices. 

Method: Survey

Timeline: Administered at the end of the program year