Wolfe County CES

Title:

Agriculture Diversification

MAP:

Agriculture Profitability & Marketing

Agents Involved:

Heather Graham

MAJOR PROGRAM 1:

Beef

MAJOR PROGRAM 2:

Home & Consumer Horticulture

MAJOR PROGRAM 3:

Kentucky Extension Homemaker Association

MAJOR PROGRAM 4:

Ag Marketing

Situation:

Wolfe County is not known for large scale production agriculture but it has great potential to diversify agriculture production through niche markets. With the drive for local food and products on the rise, resident of Wolfe County can enter these niche markets and opportunities. There has been an increased interest in our area for fruit/veggie production, honey and honeybees, local soaps/lotions/etc., as well as other products.

There are local artisan fairs that are held in Wolfe County and surrounding areas where products could be showcased and sold.

(Reviewed 06/2019; 04/2017, HG, JM)

Long-Term Outcomes:

Wolfe Countians will gain and utilize new skills needed to move and expand into niche markets while increasing their profits.

(Reviewed 06/2019; 04/2017, HG, JM)

Intermediate Outcomes:

Residents will start new ventures to diversify their existing operations.

(Reviewed 06/2019; 04/2017, HG, JM)

Initial Outcomes:

Residents will gain knowledge about niche market opportunities and how they can succeed.

(Reviewed 06/2019; 04/2017, HG, JM)

Evaluation:

Classes have been offered in: marketing; sheep/goat; honeybees; high tunnel production; gardening; bread & butter making

Initial Outcome: Residents will gain knowledge and interest and look into new (diversified) endeavors

Indicator: Number of residents indicating they will start an new endeavor

Method: Pre & post surveys

Timeline: January 2018

Intermediate Outcome: Residents will seek out opportunities to start new ventures

Indicator: Number of residents making/selling/marketing their products

Method: Observation

Timeline: 2017-2018

Long-term Outcome: Residents will see increased profitability through their niche markets

Indicator: Number of residents indicating that they have increased profits

Method: Pre & post surveys

Timeline: 2017-2020

(Reviewed 06/2019; 04/2017, HG, JM)

Learning Opportunities:

Audience: Wolfe County residents and farmers

Date: 2017-2020

Project or Activity:

- Ag. Diversification classes (ie- grape/wine production, honey and honey bees, sheep/goat production, etc.).

- Classes on how to turn something into a marketable/sellable product (ie- making soap out of goat milk)

- Marketing classes (how to market your final product)

(Reviewed 06/2019; 04/2017, HG, JM)

Success Stories