Edmonson County CES

County Emphasis:

Support small farm infrastructure Animal production, Plant production, Small Farm Development

Concentration 1:

Animal Production and Management

Concentration 2:

Plant Production and Management

Concentration 3:

Small Farm Development

Situation:

Animal Production

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. Many commercial swine farms operate in the state, focusing on efficient growth and high-quality pork. Swine farmers implement strict biosecurity protocols to prevent disease transmission and minimize stress. 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. The poultry sector contains thriving broiler industry for meat production and laying hens for egg production. 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.

Plant Production

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.

Small Farm Development

Small farm development is a crucial aspect of the Kentucky agricultural sector, especially in the context of supporting rural economies and ensuring food security. The National

Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) defines a small farm as an operation with a gross cash farm income of $250,000 or less. These farms are typically family-owned and operated, and they represent more than 90 percent of farms in the U.S. These farms face challenges such as urbanization, an aging farmer population, farm consolidation, new and beginning farmers, and changing climate patterns.

Small farms play a vital role in the competitiveness and sustainability of rural and farm economies, protecting and enhancing natural resources and the environment, and maintaining rural populations. Urban small scale farm production is an emerging and fast grow segment of farm economies. The development and sustainability of small farms is important in providing a nursery for new enterprises and marketing systems, which is crucial for innovation and diversification in agriculture. Small farm development can be hindered by access to capital, markets, and technology. Additionally, owners of small farms may lack the knowledge or resources to implement sustainable practices that could improve their economic viability and environmental stewardship.

Kentucky Cooperative Extension will continue to aid small farm owners by providing educational opportunities and increasing awareness of resources offered through various programs and online platforms. This includes developing new and improved practices to reduce production costs, protect and improve soil and water resources, and offer options for specialty crop production. Extension personnel will also promote whole farm plans, estate planning, farm transitions, risk management, and market opportunities.

The development of small farms is imperative for the health of Kentucky’s agricultural sector, rural communities and emerge urban agriculture.

County Situation:

Animal Production

Edmonson County is home to 26,500 head of cattle.  Beef cows and calves make up the entirety of this number. Cattle prices have continued to rise at a rapid pace since the fall of 2023 and are trending steady for the foreseeable future. Now, more than ever, producers must make management decisions that will allow them to continue to realize a profit and make investments.  Adding as much value to calves and marketing them in a manner that will allow them to receive top dollar is a must.  Input costs must be managed so that they are as low as possible, without compromising production and quality.

Plant Production

Many producers have increased forage and row crop production.  It is marketed through local sales and commercial sale to granaries.   Many forage producers utilize their products to feed their own livestock herds as well.

Small Farm Development

The majority of farms in Edmonson County, 96%, are owned/operated by family farms or small producers.  More and more individuals are turning to the small farm production and utilizing more natural resources that are readily available to them as well as production practices to maximize the impact of a small acreage.

Long-Term Outcomes:

Animal Production

Improve the quality of life of animals and humans.

Youth will make informed decisions regarding agricultural products and services.??? 

Plant Production

Adult

Achieve long-term sustainability and resilience through the widespread adoption of practices that enhance soil productivity, conserve water, and optimize resource use, leading to resilient agricultural systems capable of withstanding economic and environmental fluctuations.

Youth will make informed decisions regarding agricultural products and services.???

Small Farm Development

Achieve a stable economic environment where small farms are consistently profitable and competitive within both local and broader markets. 

Intermediate Outcomes:

Animal Production

Annually implement strategies and production methods that result in increased efficiency, and number of animals produced /maintained, and animals harvested or pounds of milk produced.? 

Youth will practice skills gained from 4-H agricultural projects and clubs.?

Plant Production

Expansion of Extension programming by broadening the scope of extension services to include more comprehensive support for agronomic and horticultural crops and forages suited to Kentucky's changing climate and soil conditions.

Youth will practice skills gained from 4-H agricultural projects and clubs.??

Small Farm Development

Assist small farm owners in developing and implementing comprehensive whole farm plans that address financial, production, and environmental aspects. 

Initial Outcomes:

Animal Production

Animal production and management strategies encompass but are not limited to sustainable practices, health-focused care, and economic viability across all species. Activities will include programs to address and improve specific management systems and introduce new and emerging techniques, technology, and production systems for increased efficiency and profitability.? 

•    Increase knowledge about sustainable and economically viable management practices.? 

•    Increase skills related to efficient production methods across all species.? 

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

•    Increase confidence in making decisions related to promoting animal health-related behavior.? 

•    Increase intentions to employ financially sound behavior regarding production methods, use of financial tools, health-focused care, and the human-animal interaction.? 

Youth will gain knowledge and develop skills in agriculture.? 

Plant Production

Initial and continuing education opportunities for certified pesticide applicators

Youth will explore their spark in agriculture.?

Small Farm Development

Increase access to existing resources and tools including online platforms to increase awareness and usability for small farm owners. 

Evaluation:

Adult

Animal Production

Beef

Outcome: Increased awareness of beef cattle quality assurance and care practices 

Indicator: Number of participants who obtained BQCA certifications 

Method: Post-program test 

Timeline: After program participation or online 

________________________________________

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: Implementation or utilization of knowledge gained to make changes in management of beef operation. 

Indicator: Number of participants who reported making a change to improve their beef cattle management practices. 

Method: Survey (post program) or records from individual consultations 

Youth

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

Plant Production

Outcome: Improved production practices

Indicator: Number of producers who reported increased knowledge of crop and forage production, fertility management, varieties, pest control, and/or sustainable practices.

Method: Surveys

Timeline: Annual

Survey Youth

Small Farm Development

Outcome: Increased application of recommended horticultural practices for non-commercial production 

Indicators: 

•    Number of people that implemented environmental stewardship. 

•    Number of people that reduced pesticide applications. 

•    Number of community members utilizing the sites and/or amount of produce donated from sites. 

•    Number of trained volunteers. 

•    Number of self-reported volunteer hours at community sites. 

•    Number of producers who reported reduced production inputs/costs. 

Method: Interactions with clients, attendance at Extension educational events, direct observation and feedback 

Timeline: ongoing 

Learning Opportunities:

Animal Production

Audience: Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents 

Project or Activity: BQCA trainings 

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

Inputs: BQCA provided training materials and curriculum.

Dates: 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) 

Plant Production

Audience: Adults

Project or Activity: Grain Crops Management, including Corn, Soybean, Wheat, Barley, Rye, Canola and others

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

Inputs:   program materials, volunteers, paid staff, community partners, schools, etc.

Date:  September 1-August 31

Small Farm Development

Audience: Specialty Crop Growers 

Project or Activity: Programming for commercial or pre-commercial (training to be commercial growers) 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, governmental agencies (NRCS, FSA, etc.) 

Dates:  September 1-August 31

Evaluation:

Adult

Animal Production

Beef

Outcome: Increased awareness of beef cattle quality assurance and care practices 

Indicator: Number of participants who obtained BQCA certifications 

Method: Post-program test 

Timeline: After program participation or online 

________________________________________

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: Implementation or utilization of knowledge gained to make changes in management of beef operation. 

Indicator: Number of participants who reported making a change to improve their beef cattle management practices. 

Method: Survey (post program) or records from individual consultations 

Youth

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

Plant Production

Outcome: Improved production practices

Indicator: Number of producers who reported increased knowledge of crop and forage production, fertility management, varieties, pest control, and/or sustainable practices.

Method: Surveys

Timeline: Annual

Survey Youth

Small Farm Development

Outcome: Increased application of recommended horticultural practices for non-commercial production 

Indicators: 

•    Number of people that implemented environmental stewardship. 

•    Number of people that reduced pesticide applications. 

•    Number of community members utilizing the sites and/or amount of produce donated from sites. 

•    Number of trained volunteers. 

•    Number of self-reported volunteer hours at community sites. 

•    Number of producers who reported reduced production inputs/costs. 

Method: Interactions with clients, attendance at Extension educational events, direct observation and feedback 

Timeline: ongoing