Grant County CES

County Emphasis:

Regenerative Agriculture & Smart Market Strategies

Concentration 1:

Animal Production and Management

Concentration 2:

Plant Production and Management

Concentration 3:

Sustainability, Natural Resources and Wildlife Management, and Environment

Concentration 4:

Small Farm Development

Situation:

Kentucky’s agriculture is a vital part of the state’s economy, with strong sectors in animal production, crop management, and natural resource utilization. Beef cattle convert over 7 million acres of pasture and forage into valuable products, while the state’s globally recognized equine industry drives breeding excellence. Poultry is Kentucky’s top agricultural commodity, with both large-scale broiler and egg production. Swine and small ruminants contribute through efficient, health-focused systems for meat, fiber, and dairy.

Crop producers face rising input costs, price volatility, and climate variability. To remain productive and profitable, many are adopting conservation practices like crop rotation, cover cropping, and integrated pest management. There is growing use of data-driven technologies, new crop varieties, and soil and water management strategies to boost yields and long-term sustainability.

Kentucky is rich in natural resources, with forests covering 50% of the state and supporting $13 billion in annual economic activity and over 28,000 jobs. Woodlands provide habitat, recreation, and ecosystem services across all 120 counties. However, maintaining these resources faces major challenges. Many landowners struggle with economic barriers, limited technology access, and labor shortages. Development pressures and rising food demand contribute to land overuse, soil degradation, deforestation, and water scarcity.

The impacts of climate change—such as more frequent extreme weather events and long-term warming—pose serious threats to agriculture and forests. Kentucky ranks among the most climate-vulnerable states. Additionally, invasive species further stress woodlands and natural ecosystems, complicating sustainable management.

Ensuring the long-term sustainability of Kentucky’s agricultural and natural resource base will require ongoing adaptation to environmental, economic, and ecological pressures, with a focus on responsible land use, conservation, and resilience.

County Situation:

Grant County, Kentucky, reflects the state’s agricultural and natural resource strengths and challenges, with a strong focus on beef cattle, forage production, and diversified livestock including poultry, small ruminants, and equine. Producers face rising input costs, market volatility, and increasing climate variability, leading to greater adoption of sustainable practices such as crop rotation, cover cropping, and integrated pest management. The county’s natural resources, including private woodlands and waterways, contribute to both the economy and ecosystem health but face growing threats from development, invasive species, and extreme weather. Landowners often struggle with economic and technological barriers to implementing long-term sustainability practices. As part of one of the most climate-vulnerable states, Grant County must continue balancing agricultural productivity with conservation to protect its land, water, and forest resources for future generations.

Long-Term Outcomes:

• Adoption of sustainable agricultural and forestry practices enhances soil productivity, conserves water, and increases long-term farm and forest resilience to economic and environmental fluctuations.
• Improved livestock quality and production efficiency (beef cattle, small ruminants, poultry, and horses) strengthens the financial stability of local producers and supports sustainable animal care and management.
• Expanded local food systems through increased production, marketing opportunities, and use of food benefits at farmers’ markets and local retailers strengthens food access and the local economy.
• Increased use of best management practices by horse owners and small ruminant producers helps control ownership costs and improves animal health and productivity.
• Support for generational farm transitions and beginning farmers ensures long-term agricultural viability and strengthens farm family continuity in Grant County.
• Improved dietary habits and health outcomes through education, increased consumption of locally grown produce, and support for community gardens and home-prepared meals.
• Implementation of climate adaptation strategies and disaster readiness plans prepares farms and communities for extreme weather events and climate variability.
• Reduction in pesticide use and crop losses through improved disease and pest management increases crop quality and competitiveness, while protecting human and environmental health.
• Youth will make informed decisions regarding agricultural products and services.
• Youth will advocate for agriculture and sustainable fiber and food production in their communities.?? 
• Youth will be life and work ready, contributing to the agricultural community as consumers, leaders, and innovators.?? 
• Youth will advocate for natural resources in their communities.??? 
• Youth will be life and work ready, contributing to the natural resources community as consumers, leaders, and innovators.?? 
• Youth actively adopt and apply advanced natural resources practices, demonstrating a growing commitment to the natural resources community.? 
• Youth report reduced risk for poor health, developmental delays, obesity, and malnutrition.    
• Youth increase educational outcomes.  
• Youth decrease poor overall health. 

Intermediate Outcomes:

• Participants adopt Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and/or organic practices, leading to reduced chemical input use, improved disease monitoring, and responsible pesticide application to maintain crop health and productivity.
• Producers implement emerging agricultural technologies, such as GPS mapping, UAVs, soil health sensors, and data-driven tools to increase crop productivity, efficiency, and resource management.
• Producers utilize Extension resources to adapt grain, forage, tobacco, hemp, and horticultural crop production to changing climate and soil conditions, resulting in more resilient and profitable operations.
• Participants improve pesticide safety practices, demonstrate compliance with state regulations, and apply pesticides more judiciously to protect human health and the environment.
• Livestock producers increase use of biosecurity protocols and adopt sustainable management strategies, resulting in healthier herds, improved productivity, and enhanced financial viability.
• Horse owners apply best management and cost-effective care practices, including proper biosecurity measures, to maintain equine health and reduce ownership costs.
• Participants increase production and marketing of Kentucky-grown foods, expand local market participation (e.g., farmers’ markets), and help make healthy, local foods more accessible to all income levels.
• Families and individuals improve dietary habits by consuming more fruits, vegetables, and locally raised proteins, preparing more meals at home, and reducing risk of chronic health conditions.
• Youth will practice skills gained from 4-H agricultural projects and clubs.?? 
• Youth will communicate agricultural ideas and concepts more effectively.?? 
• Youth actively adopt and apply advanced agricultural practices, demonstrating a growing commitment to the agricultural community.?? 
• Youth will take responsible action in natural resources conservation.?? 
• Youth will aspire to explore careers in natural resources and environmental sciences.?? 
• Youth will practice skills gained from 4-H natural resources projects and clubs.??? 
• Youth will communicate natural resources ideas and concepts more effectively.
• Youth will practice making wise nutrition choices.  
• Youth will practice food safety.  
• Youth will access nutritious foods.  
• Youth will prepare nutritious foods.  
• Youth will eat a variety of healthy foods daily. 

Initial Outcomes:

• Participants increase awareness and use of local food system resources, including Value Chain Coordinators, The Food Connection, Cultivate KY, farmers’ markets, and community-based food access programs.
• Home cooks and food entrepreneurs gain skills in safe food preparation, preservation, and microprocessing, leading to increased participation in homebased business opportunities and improved access to nutritious, local foods.
• Woodland owners and agricultural producers improve knowledge of sustainable forest management, biodiversity, and wildlife damage control, enabling better land stewardship and disaster preparedness.
• Producers adopt data-driven technologies and sustainable soil and water management practices, improving resource efficiency, crop yield, and resilience to changing climate conditions.
• Farmers increase knowledge of current and emerging plant diseases, utilize timely diagnostics, and implement best practices for disease and pest management to protect crop productivity.
• Livestock and equine owners enhance their management strategies, leading to better animal health, reduced costs, and adoption of sustainable, economically viable care practices across all species.
• Horse owners evaluate and improve their care practices, whether they are new, experienced, or longtime owners, through the application of best management practices and new technologies.
• Producers meet regulatory and market standards by fulfilling GAP training, pesticide applicator certification, and documenting climate-smart practices, improving compliance, marketability, and farm viability.

• Youth will explore their spark in agriculture.??? 
• Youth will gain knowledge and develop skills in agriculture.? 
• Youth will develop a greater awareness and appreciation for the impact of agriculture in their daily life.?? 
• Youth will expand life and work readiness skills in agriculture, gaining awareness of the diverse opportunities within the field of agriculture.
• Youth will explore their spark in natural resources.??? 
• Youth will gain knowledge and develop skills in natural resources and environmental sciences.???? 
• Youth will understand how their actions and choices impact natural resources and the environment.??? 
• Youth will set goals to become good stewards of natural resources.?? 
• Youth will expand life and work readiness skills, gaining awareness of the diverse opportunities within the field of natural resources.? 
• Youth will learn how to make wise nutrition choices.  
• Youth will learn the importance of food safety.  
• Youth learn how to access nutritious foods.  
• Youth will learn how to prepare nutritious foods.  
• Youth will aspire to eat a variety of healthy foods daily.

Evaluation:

Outcome: Increased awareness of wildlife, forestry, and natural resources issues 

Indicator: 

• Number of participants who reported that they gained knowledge of wildlife. 
• Number of participants who reported they gained their awareness of forestry. 
• Number of participants who reported they gained their awareness of natural resources.   

Method: Survey (Self-Assessment of Learning Gains) 

Timeline: At program 

Outcome: Increased awareness of and use of safe/effective pesticide application methods 

Indicator: 

• Number of certified applicators attending continuing education credit Extension events (both private and commercial) 
• Number of people self-reporting knowledge gain on integrated pest management techniques  
• Number of people self-reporting behavioral changes regarding risk mitigation strategies for pesticide application 

Method: Surveys at CEU events 

Timeline: At program

Outcome: Medium

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.  
• Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to conserve natural resources.  
• Number of youth who reported that they have used their skills and/or knowledge gained to complete a natural resources project.  

Method: Survey 

Timeline: Administered at end of program year/club year 

Outcome: Increased knowledge and/or awareness of management practices to improve cattle production efficiency 

Indicator: Number of participants who reported an increase in their knowledge and/or awareness of management practices for improving cattle production efficiency. 

Method: Survey  

Timeline: At the program 

Outcome: Increased Horse Management Knowledge 

Indicator: 

• Number of horse owners using Body Condition scoring to manage their horses. 
• Number of horse owners changing practices to reduce feed waste. 
• Number of horse owners using hay selection and use based on forage testing evaluation 

Method: Evaluation results and/or records from individual consultations 

Timeline: ongoing 

Outcome: Increased livestock marketing knowledge 

Indicator: 

• Number of participants who report increasing their knowledge of livestock marketing. 
• Number of individuals who implemented small ruminant financial management programs.

Method: Program evaluation tools/ surveys 

Timeline: Ongoing 

Outcome: Increased livestock management knowledge 

Indicator: Number of livestock producers indicating increased understanding of farm management. 

Method: Program evaluation tools / surveys 

Timeline: Ongoing 

Outcome: Stakeholders have knowledge and tools needed to better protect crops from weeds and understand the benefits of adopting best management practices for weed and resistance mitigation. Stakeholders are more aware of UK weed science research

Indicator: Number of stakeholders who reported increased knowledge of research-based weed identification and/or weed management practices for crops grown in Kentucky.

Method: Primarily surveys, consultations

Timeline: Annual

Outcome: Improving forage and livestock management

Indicator: Number of participants that indicate high likelihood of implementation of improved forage and livestock management practices.

Method: Schools, workshops, conferences, and field days.  Information from these events will also be pushed out through KY Forages YouTube Channel and Master Grazer Facebook page.

Timeline: Programs are provided one or more times annually at multiple locations throughout Kentucky

Outcome: Short-term

Indicator:

• Number of youth who reported that they have realized the impact animal production has in daily life. 
• Number of youth who reported that they have an interest in animal production. 
• Number of youth who reported that they have identified at least one job/career in animal production and management that fits their interest.   
• Number of youth who reported that they understand animal production concepts and ideas.
• Number of adults in the county 4-H country ham program.

Method: Survey

Timeline: Immediate Post Program

Outcome: Medium-term

Indicator:

• Number of youth who reported that they have used the knowledge and/or skills gained in agriculture to make informed decisions. 
• Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to pursue gaining more knowledge for a job in animal production based on their interests.  
• Number of youth who reported that they used knowledge and/or skills gained in animal production to complete a project. 
• Number of youth who reported that they adopted/applied one or more animal production practices.  

Method: 

Timeline:

Outcome: Long-term

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

Method: Survey

Timeline: 1+ years

Outcome: Short-Term

Indicator: 

• Number of youth who reported increased understanding of the impact (or role) of plant production in their daily lives.
• Number of youth who reported an increased interest in plant production and management. 
• Number of youth who reported that they understand plant production concepts and ideas.
• Number of youth who reported that they have identified at least one job/career in plant production and management that fits their interest

Method: Survey

Timeline: Administered immediately following program/activity

Outcome: Medium-Term

Indicator: 

• Number of youth who reported that they have used the knowledge and skills gained in plant production to make informed decisions. 
• Number of youth who reported that they have used the knowledge and/or skills gained in plant production to complete a  project.
• Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to pursue gaining more knowledge for a job in plant production based on their interests.

Method: Survey

Timeline: Administered at end of program year/club year

Outcome: Long Term

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

Method: Survey

Timeline: End of program year or several years.

Outcome: Short? 

Indicator: 

• Number of youth who reported that they have identified their interest in natural resources.? 
• Number of youth who reported that they understand how their actions and choices impact natural resources and the environment.??? 
• Number of youth who reported that they understand natural resources concepts and ideas. 
• Number of youth who reported that have set goals to become a good steward of natural resources.? 

Method: Survey 

Timeline: Administered immediately following program/activity 

Outcome: Medium

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.  
• Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to conserve natural resources.  
• Number of youth who reported that they have used their skills and/or knowledge gained to complete a natural resources project.  

Method: Survey 

Timeline: Administered at end of program year/club year 

Outcome: Long-Term 

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 

Learning Opportunities:

Audience: Families and Youth

Project or Activity: Farm to Table

Content or Curriculum: KDA and UK 

Inputs: Farmer's Market, FFA, FCCLA, and UK 

Date: Sept 2025

Audience:  Farm Families

Project or Activity: Marketing Opportunities for Livestock Producers

Content or Curriculum: Value Added and Direct Sales

Inputs: Agents and Staff

Date: ongoing

Audience: Retiring Landowners

Project or Activity: Farm and Hunting Leases

Content or Curriculum: expanding farm opportunities

Inputs: specialists, agents and attorneys

Date: May 2026

Audience: 4-H Youth and Families

Project of Activity: Thinking outside the Grocery Cart

Content or Curriculum: UK/KSU Publications

Inputs: UK publications and specialists, Farmers Market

Date: Spring 2026

Audience: Communities

Project or Activity: Farmers’ Market Toolkit

Content or Curriculum: Farmers’ Market Toolkit

Inputs: Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, facilities, health department, non-profits, schools, faith-based organizations, Homemakers, community centers, farmers, farmers’ markets, etc.

Dates: Ongoing

Audience: Communities

Project or Activity: School, Community or Recovery Gardens

Content or Curriculum: NEP “Grow your own” publications, Hort. Dept. publications, youth gardening curriculum, Recovery Garden Toolkit

Inputs: Gardening materials, paid staff, community partners, 4-H, volunteers, grant funds, local organizations and community partners, schools, recovery centers, Nutrition Education Program

Dates: Ongoing

Audience: Adults 

Project or Activity: IPM and Pesticide Programs 

Content or Curriculum: Educational materials and program delivery 

Inputs: UK and subject matter Specialists 

Dates:

Audience: General public 

Project or Activity: Pest and disease identification 

Content or Curriculum: Clinical diagnoses and trainings  

Inputs: Diagnostic labs and services 

Dates:

Audience: Landowners 

Project or Activity: Woodland Owners Short Course 

Content or Curriculum: Range of speakers representing different topics and important agencies, webinar and field components 

Inputs: Developed in partnership with Billy Thomas, meeting local community needs and partners. 

Dates:

Audience: 4-H Members 

Project or Activity: Kentucky 4-H Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences Academy and Teen Ambassador Program?? 

Content or Curriculum: Water, Entomology, Forestry, Wildlife; Curriculum - National and State-Level Research-Based, Vetted Publications, Curricula, and Educational Resources (e.g., Project WET, Project WILD, Project Learning Tree, Project Underground, Leopold Education Project)? 

Inputs: 

4-H programs in natural resources in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful to them.??? 

Accredited volunteers in natural resources.??? 

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.??? 

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.??? 

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.??? 

Engagement of staff, volunteers, and youth in delivering the program.

Dates: 4-H Program Year (September 1 – August 31) 

Audience: Agricultural producers and the public

Project or Activity: Pest and disease identification

Content or Curriculum: Clinical diagnoses and trainings

Inputs: Diagnostic labs and services

Date: 

Audience: Specialty crop growers

Project or Activity: Programming for specialty crop production and management

Content or Curriculum: Publications, Fact Sheets, Workshops, Field Days, County Meetings, Regional Meetings, Field Visits, emails and phone calls

Inputs: Extension Specialists, Kentucky Horticulture Council, USDA funding, Dept of Labor funding, county agents, KDA, professional member organizations

Date: 

Audience: Home owners and consumers

Project or Activity: Programming for home gardening and landscape management

Content or Curriculum: Publications, Fact Sheets, Workshops, County Meetings, Regional Meetings, emails and phone calls

Inputs: Extension Specialists, USDA funding, county agents, KDA, Kentucky Extension Master Gardener Progam

Date: 

Audience: Agricultural stakeholders (farmers, certified crop advisors, industry, others)

Project or Activity: Identification and management of diseases that affect grain, forage crops and tobacco. Grain crops include corn, sorghum, soybean, small grains, canola.  

Content or Curriculum: Publications, Live and virtual trainings, online videos, workshops, field days, county meetings, regional and national meetings, field visits, emails and phone calls

Inputs: UK Plant Pathology Extension Specialists, research and extension funding

Date: Annual

Audience: Agricultural stakeholders (producers, industry, others)

Project or Activity: Disease identification and management of horticulture and specialty crops. Crops include tree and berry fruits, hemp, field and high tunnel vegetables, greenhouse floriculture, landscapes and urban forests, and home horticulture

Content or Curriculum: Publications, Live and virtual trainings, online videos, workshops, field days, county meetings, regional and national meetings, field visits, emails and phone calls

Inputs: UK Plant Pathology Extension Specialists, research and extension funding

Date: Annual

Audience: Adult Horse Owners  

Project or Activity: Horses and Horsemen  

Content or Curriculum: Seminars on Best management practices   

Inputs: UK Specialist, ANR Agents Industry Professionals   

Dates: Fall 2025

Audience: Adult Horse Owners and Farm Managers  

Project or Activity: Horses and Horsemen / Pastures Please  

Content or Curriculum: Pasture Management practices  

Inputs: Extension Specialists ANR Agents and Industry professionals  

Dates: Fall 2025

Audience: Adult Horse Owners  

Project or Activity: Horses and Horsemen /Farm and Facility Expo 

Content or Curriculum: Farm related management practices  

Inputs: Extension Horse Specialist, ANR Agents and industry support   

Dates: Spring 2025

• Audience: Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents 

Project or Activity: BQCA trainings 

Content or Curriculum: State BQCA videos and chute-side trainings 

Inputs: 

Dates:

Audience: Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents 

Project or Activity: Backgrounding Short Course 

Content or Curriculum: Backgrounding short course presentations & materials 

Inputs: UK beef facilities, Beef IRM coordinators and specialists, Industry sponsorships and External grant funds 

Dates: Every other year with date TBD 

Audience: Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents 

Project or Activity: Master Cattleman 

Content or Curriculum: Master Cattleman curriculum 

Inputs: Coordination with Beef IRM coordinators & specialists 

Dates: TBD

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: Kentucky 4-H Dog Program 

Content or Curriculum: Kentucky Dog Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Ohio State University (OSU) Dog Resource Handbook, Ohio State University (OSU) Dog Project and Record Book, Ohio State University (OSU) Dog Learning Lab Kit, National 4-H Dog Curriculum Levels 1-3 and Helper’s Guide, American Kennel Club Website, Kentucky 4-H Dog Program Rule Book, Kentucky 4-H Dog Program Overview 

Inputs: 

4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.?? 

Certified volunteers in animal sciences (livestock, horse, poultry, rabbit, and dog).? 

Accredited volunteers in agriculture.? 

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.? 

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.? 

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.? 

Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.? 

Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.?? 

External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.??? 

Dates: 

Kentucky 4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31) 

Kentucky 4-H Dog Skillathon (offered each August) 

Kentucky 4-H Dog Show (offered each August) 

Kentucky 4-H Dog Bowl (offered each August) 

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: Equine

Content or Curriculum: Ohio State University (OSU) Horse Learning Lab Kit, Kentucky Horse Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Horse Reference Manual (Alberta 4-H), 4-H Horse Academy, Kentucky 4-H Horse Website 

Inputs:

4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.?? 

Certified volunteers in animal sciences (livestock, horse, poultry, rabbit, and dog).? 

Accredited volunteers in agriculture.? 

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.? 

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.? 

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.? 

Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.? 

Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.?? 

External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.?? 

Dates: 

Kentucky 4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31) 

Kentucky 4-H Horse Contest (offered June each year) 

Kentucky 4-H Horse Show (offered August each year) 

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: Kentucky 4-H Livestock Program 

Content or Curriculum: Kentucky Animal Science Livestock Discovery Website, Kentucky Livestock Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Ohio State University (OSU) Livestock Resource Handbook, Ohio State University (OSU) Livestock Project and Record Book, Ohio State University (OSU) Learning Lab Kits, National 4-H Project Books and Helper’s Guide, Kentucky 4-H Livestock Program Overview, Kentucky 4-H Livestock Rules and Guidelines 

Inputs:

4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.?? 

Certified volunteers in animal sciences (livestock, horse, poultry, rabbit, and dog).? 

Accredited volunteers in agriculture.? 

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.? 

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.? 

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.? 

Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.? 

Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.?? 

External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.?? 

Dates: 

Kentucky 4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31) 

Kentucky 4-H Livestock Judging Contest (offered June each year) 

Kentucky 4-H Livestock Skillathon and Quiz Bowl Contest (offered each year) 

Kentucky 4-H Livestock Shows (offered each year) 

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: Kentucky 4-H Poultry Program 

Content or Curriculum: Pullet Project Guide (university of Kentucky), National 4-H Poultry Judging Manual published by Nebraska Cooperative Extension Service, Evaluating Egg Laying Hens (University of Kentucky), Standards for Scoring Placing Classes (University of Kentucky), Kentucky 4-H Poultry: Giving Oral Reasons (University of Kentucky), Notesheet for Poultry Reasons (University of Kentucky), Criteria for Evaluating Oral Reasons (University of Kentucky), Kentucky 4-H Poultry: Grading RTC Poultry (University of Kentucky), Kentucky 4-H Poultry: Grading Eggs (University of Kentucky), Examples of Different Grades of Broken Out Eggs (University of Kentucky) 

Inputs: 

4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.?? 

Certified volunteers in animal sciences (livestock, horse, poultry, rabbit, and dog).? 

Accredited volunteers in agriculture.? 

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.? 

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.? 

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.? 

Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.? 

Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.?? 

External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.?? 

Dates: 

Kentucky 4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31) 

Kentucky 4-H Poultry Showmanship (offered Kentucky State Fair - August each year) 

Kentucky 4-H Avian Bowl (offered Kentucky State Fair - August each year) 

Kentucky 4-H Poultry Judging (offered Kentucky State Fair - August each year) 

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: Kentucky 4-H Rabbit Program 

Content or Curriculum: Ohio State University (OSU) Rabbit Resource Handbook, Ohio State University (OSU) Rabbit Project Record Book, Ohio State University (OSU) Rabbit Learning Lab Kit, National 4-H Rabbit Curriculum Levels 1-3 and Helper’s Guide, American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) Standard of Perfection, Kentucky 4-H Rabbit Program Guide and Rule Book, 4-H Rabbit Program Overview 

Inputs:

4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.?? 

Certified volunteers in animal sciences (livestock, horse, poultry, rabbit, and dog).? 

Accredited volunteers in agriculture.? 

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.? 

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.? 

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.? 

Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.? 

Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.?? 

External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.??? 

Dates: 

Kentucky 4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31) 

Kentucky 4-H Rabbit Show (offered Kentucky State Fair - August each year) 

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: 4-H Clubwork (Livestock, Dairy, Horse, Poultry, Rabbit, Dog, and Vet Science) 

Content or Curriculum: 

Livestock: Kentucky Animal Science Livestock Discovery Website, Kentucky Livestock Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Ohio State University (OSU) Livestock Resource Handbook, Ohio State University (OSU) Livestock Project and Record Book, Ohio State University (OSU) Learning Lab Kits, National 4-H Project Books and Helper’s Guide, Kentucky 4-H Livestock Program Overview, Kentucky 4-H Livestock Rules and Guidelines 

Dairy: 4-H Livestock Discovery, Kentucky Livestock Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Holstein Foundation Study Questions 

Horse: Ohio State University (OSU) Horse Learning Lab Kit, Kentucky Horse Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Horse Reference Manual (Alberta 4-H), 4-H Horse Academy, Kentucky 4-H Horse Website 

Poultry: Kentucky 4-H Avian Bowl Manual, National 4-H Poultry Judging Manual published by Nebraska Cooperative Extension Service, Evaluating Egg Laying Hens (University of Kentucky), Standards for Scoring Placing Classes (University of Kentucky), Kentucky 4-H Poultry: Giving Oral Reasons (University of Kentucky), Notesheet for Poultry Reasons (University of Kentucky), Criteria for Evaluating Oral Reasons (University of Kentucky), Kentucky 4-H Poultry: Grading RTC Poultry (University of Kentucky), Kentucky 4-H Poultry: Grading Eggs (University of Kentucky), Examples of Different Grades of Broken Out Eggs (University of Kentucky), The Egg and I, Chick Incubation 

Rabbit: Ohio State University (OSU) Rabbit Resource Handbook, Ohio State University (OSU) Rabbit Project Record Book, Ohio State University (OSU) Rabbit Learning Lab Kit, National 4-H Rabbit Curriculum Levels 1-3 and Helper’s Guide, American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) Standard of Perfection, Kentucky 4-H Rabbit Program Guide and Rule Book, 4-H Rabbit Program Overview 

Dog: Kentucky Dog Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Ohio State University (OSU) Dog Resource Handbook, Ohio State University (OSU) Dog Project and Record Book, Ohio State University (OSU) Dog Learning Lab Kit, National 4-H Dog Curriculum Levels 1-3 and Helper’s Guide, American Kennel Club Website, Kentucky 4-H Dog Program Rule Book, Kentucky 4-H Dog Program Overview 

Inputs:

4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.?? 

Certified volunteers in animal sciences (livestock, horse, poultry, rabbit, and dog).? 

Accredited volunteers in agriculture.? 

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.? 

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.? 

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.? 

Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.? 

Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.?? 

External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.??? 

Dates: 4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31) 

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: Kentucky 4-H Country Ham Program 

Content or Curriculum: Kentucky Animal Science Livestock Discovery Website, Kentucky Livestock Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Ohio State University (OSU) Livestock Resource Handbook, Ohio State University (OSU) Livestock Project and Record Book, Ohio State University (OSU) Learning Lab Kits, National 4-H Project Books and Helper’s Guide, Country Ham Meat Lesson Kit (University of Kentucky)

Inputs: 

4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.?? 

Certified volunteers in animal sciences (livestock, horse, poultry, rabbit, and dog).? 

Accredited volunteers in agriculture.? 

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.? 

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.? 

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.? 

Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.? 

Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.?? 

External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.??

Dates: 

4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31) 

Kentucky 4-H Country Ham Contest (offered Kentucky State Fair - August each year) 

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: General Agricultural Short Term Programs (School Enrichment, 4-H Camp, etc.) 

Content or Curriculum: 

Any 4-H Curriculum 

Kentucky Ag and Environment in the Classroom, Inc. (KyAEC) https://www.teachkyag.org/ 

Kentucky Food and Farm Facts https://www.kyfoodandfarm.info/  

Kids Sonder: Agriculture Unboxed https://www.mommassonder.com/  

National Ag Day https://www.agday.org/  

National Ag and Environment in the Classroom https://agclassroom.org/ 

Inputs:

4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.?? 

Certified volunteers in animal sciences (livestock, horse, poultry, rabbit, and dog).? 

Accredited volunteers in agriculture.? 

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.? 

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.? 

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.? 

Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.? 

Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.?? 

External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.?? 

Dates: 4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31) 

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: 4-H Plant and Soil Science Programs (e.g., 4-H Land Judging Contest, 4-H Homesite Evaluation Contest, 4-H Horticulture Contest)

Content or Curriculum: National and State-Level Research-Based, Vetted Publications, Curricula, and Educational Resources (e.g., Land Judging and Homesite Evaluation Publication, National Junior Horticulture Association Contest Manual)?

Inputs: 

4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.???

Accredited volunteers in agriculture.??

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.??

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.??

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.??

Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.??

Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.???

External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.?

Date: 4-H Program Year (September 1 – August 31)

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: 4-H Plant and Soil Science Projects?(e.g., fair displays and exhibit entries)

Content or Curriculum: National and State-Level Research-Based, Vetted Publications, Curricula, and Educational Resources (e.g., Junior Master Gardener, National 4-H Gardening Series, 4-H State Fair Exhibit Factsheets, Extension Publications)?

Inputs: 

4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.???

Accredited volunteers in agriculture.??

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.??

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.??

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.??

Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.??

Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.???

External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.

Date: 4-H Program Year (September 1 – August 31)

 

Audience: 4-H Members 

Project or Activity: Kentucky 4-H Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences Academy and Teen Ambassador Program?? 

Content or Curriculum: Water, Entomology, Forestry, Wildlife; Curriculum - National and State-Level Research-Based, Vetted Publications, Curricula, and Educational Resources (e.g., Project WET, Project WILD, Project Learning Tree, Project Underground, Leopold Education Project)? 

Inputs: 

4-H programs in natural resources in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful to them.??? 

Accredited volunteers in natural resources.??? 

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.??? 

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.??? 

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.??? 

Engagement of staff, volunteers, and youth in delivering the program.

Dates: 4-H Program Year (September 1 – August 31) 

Audience: 4-H Members 

Project or Activity: 4-H Natural Resources Projects?(e.g., insect collections, leaf collections, leaf print collections, wood science projects, rock, mineral, and/or fossil collections)

Content or Curriculum: Entomology, Forestry, Wood Science, Geology; Curriculum - National and State-Level Research-Based, Vetted Publications, Curricula, and Educational Resources? 

Inputs: 

4-H programs in natural resources in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful to them.??? 

Accredited volunteers in natural resources.??? 

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.??? 

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.??? 

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.??? 

Engagement of staff, volunteers and youth in delivering the program. 

Dates: 4-H Program Year (September 1 – August 31) 

Audience: 4-H Members 

Project or Activity: 4-H Natural Resources Programs (e.g., 4-H Forestry Field Days, 4-H Senior 4-H Forestry Judging Contest, 4-H Wildlife Challenge) 

Content or Curriculum: Forestry, Wildlife, Entomology, Water; Curriculum - National and State-Level Research-Based, Vetted Publications, Curricula, and Educational Resources? 

Inputs: 

4-H programs in natural resources in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful to them.??? 

Accredited volunteers in natural resources.??? 

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.??? 

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.??? 

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.??? 

Engagement of staff, volunteers and youth in delivering the program.? 

Dates: 4-H Program Year (September 1 – August 31)

Audience: 4-H Members 

Project or Activity: 4-H Shooting Sports Program 

Content or Curriculum: National 4-H Shooting Sports Training Curriculum? 

Inputs: 

4-H programs in natural resources in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful to them.??? 

Accredited volunteers in 4-H Shooting Sports.??? 

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.??? 

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.??? 

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.??? 

Engagement of staff, volunteers and youth in delivering the program.

Dates: 4-H Program Year (September 1 – August 31)?

Evaluation:

Outcome: Increased awareness of wildlife, forestry, and natural resources issues 

Indicator: 

• Number of participants who reported that they gained knowledge of wildlife. 
• Number of participants who reported they gained their awareness of forestry. 
• Number of participants who reported they gained their awareness of natural resources.   

Method: Survey (Self-Assessment of Learning Gains) 

Timeline: At program 

Outcome: Increased awareness of and use of safe/effective pesticide application methods 

Indicator: 

• Number of certified applicators attending continuing education credit Extension events (both private and commercial) 
• Number of people self-reporting knowledge gain on integrated pest management techniques  
• Number of people self-reporting behavioral changes regarding risk mitigation strategies for pesticide application 

Method: Surveys at CEU events 

Timeline: At program

Outcome: Medium

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.  
• Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to conserve natural resources.  
• Number of youth who reported that they have used their skills and/or knowledge gained to complete a natural resources project.  

Method: Survey 

Timeline: Administered at end of program year/club year 

Outcome: Increased knowledge and/or awareness of management practices to improve cattle production efficiency 

Indicator: Number of participants who reported an increase in their knowledge and/or awareness of management practices for improving cattle production efficiency. 

Method: Survey  

Timeline: At the program 

Outcome: Increased Horse Management Knowledge 

Indicator: 

• Number of horse owners using Body Condition scoring to manage their horses. 
• Number of horse owners changing practices to reduce feed waste. 
• Number of horse owners using hay selection and use based on forage testing evaluation 

Method: Evaluation results and/or records from individual consultations 

Timeline: ongoing 

Outcome: Increased livestock marketing knowledge 

Indicator: 

• Number of participants who report increasing their knowledge of livestock marketing. 
• Number of individuals who implemented small ruminant financial management programs.

Method: Program evaluation tools/ surveys 

Timeline: Ongoing 

Outcome: Increased livestock management knowledge 

Indicator: Number of livestock producers indicating increased understanding of farm management. 

Method: Program evaluation tools / surveys 

Timeline: Ongoing 

Outcome: Stakeholders have knowledge and tools needed to better protect crops from weeds and understand the benefits of adopting best management practices for weed and resistance mitigation. Stakeholders are more aware of UK weed science research

Indicator: Number of stakeholders who reported increased knowledge of research-based weed identification and/or weed management practices for crops grown in Kentucky.

Method: Primarily surveys, consultations

Timeline: Annual

Outcome: Improving forage and livestock management

Indicator: Number of participants that indicate high likelihood of implementation of improved forage and livestock management practices.

Method: Schools, workshops, conferences, and field days.  Information from these events will also be pushed out through KY Forages YouTube Channel and Master Grazer Facebook page.

Timeline: Programs are provided one or more times annually at multiple locations throughout Kentucky

Outcome: Short-term

Indicator:

• Number of youth who reported that they have realized the impact animal production has in daily life. 
• Number of youth who reported that they have an interest in animal production. 
• Number of youth who reported that they have identified at least one job/career in animal production and management that fits their interest.   
• Number of youth who reported that they understand animal production concepts and ideas.
• Number of adults in the county 4-H country ham program.

Method: Survey

Timeline: Immediate Post Program

Outcome: Medium-term

Indicator:

• Number of youth who reported that they have used the knowledge and/or skills gained in agriculture to make informed decisions. 
• Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to pursue gaining more knowledge for a job in animal production based on their interests.  
• Number of youth who reported that they used knowledge and/or skills gained in animal production to complete a project. 
• Number of youth who reported that they adopted/applied one or more animal production practices.  

Method: 

Timeline:

Outcome: Long-term

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

Method: Survey

Timeline: 1+ years

Outcome: Short-Term

Indicator: 

• Number of youth who reported increased understanding of the impact (or role) of plant production in their daily lives.
• Number of youth who reported an increased interest in plant production and management. 
• Number of youth who reported that they understand plant production concepts and ideas.
• Number of youth who reported that they have identified at least one job/career in plant production and management that fits their interest

Method: Survey

Timeline: Administered immediately following program/activity

Outcome: Medium-Term

Indicator: 

• Number of youth who reported that they have used the knowledge and skills gained in plant production to make informed decisions. 
• Number of youth who reported that they have used the knowledge and/or skills gained in plant production to complete a  project.
• Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to pursue gaining more knowledge for a job in plant production based on their interests.

Method: Survey

Timeline: Administered at end of program year/club year

Outcome: Long Term

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

Method: Survey

Timeline: End of program year or several years.

Outcome: Short? 

Indicator: 

• Number of youth who reported that they have identified their interest in natural resources.? 
• Number of youth who reported that they understand how their actions and choices impact natural resources and the environment.??? 
• Number of youth who reported that they understand natural resources concepts and ideas. 
• Number of youth who reported that have set goals to become a good steward of natural resources.? 

Method: Survey 

Timeline: Administered immediately following program/activity 

Outcome: Medium

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.  
• Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to conserve natural resources.  
• Number of youth who reported that they have used their skills and/or knowledge gained to complete a natural resources project.  

Method: Survey 

Timeline: Administered at end of program year/club year 

Outcome: Long-Term 

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