Simpson County CES

County Emphasis:

Agricultural Production, Sustainability and Awareness

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 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.

     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.

     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.

     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:

According to the most recent Census of Agriculture, Simpson County has 400 farm operations on 109,458 acres which represents 72% of the total land area in Simpson County.  This represents an approximate 15% reduction in total farms since the last census.  Public awareness about agriculture production and food systems is increasingly important due to a growing population of citizens without an agricultural background.  The Simpson County Extension Council and Ag Awareness Committee identified the ever-growing importance of providing programming to improve practices and sustainability for crop and livestock producers as well as promoting agricultural awareness for local and global food systems.

Long-Term Outcomes:

• Increase the quality and number of animals or pounds of milk produced annually contributing to the increased and more stable financial position for producers. 
• Increase the use of sustainable management practices across all production methods and species.
• Producers are routinely implementing guidelines and recommendations for efficient and financially sound production demonstrating sustainable behavior change.
• Continually implementing new technology and production practices.
• Improve the quality of life of animals and humans.
• Increase the quality of beef cattle produced annually contributing to increased and more stable financial position of cattle operations. 
• Increase the use of sustainable management practices across all production methods leading to enhanced production efficiency and reductions in the carbon footprint. 
• Producers are routinely following Beef Quality Care & Assurance standards to produce healthy and high-quality beef. 
• Continually adoption of new technology and production practices.
• Increase the use of sustainable management practices by horse owners. 
• 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.
  • 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.
  • Strengthen local economies through improved farm sustainability and profitability, which are economic multipliers in local communities. Helping farm families successfully transition to subsequent generations. Helping new and beginning farmers enter farming operations.  
  • Strengthen local economies through the continuous support of farmer’s markets, community gardens, and community-supported agriculture programs that are well-integrated with urban horticulture initiatives.
  • Develop and implement a comprehensive framework for disaster readiness and climate adaptation that includes advanced forecasting, crop selection, and management practices to prepare for extreme weather events.
  • Improved crop sustainability, increased farm profitability and reduced environmental impact using best disease management practices
  • Reduced unnecessary pesticide exposure to farmers, agribusiness and the general public
  • Increased farm productivity because of a reduction in yield and quality losses due to diseases
  • Increased competitiveness for U.S. farmers and the agricultural industry
  • Achieve long-term sustainability and resilience in agricultural practices through the widespread adoption of practices that enhance soil productivity, conserve water quality and quantity, and optimize resource use, leading to resilient agricultural systems capable of withstanding economic and environmental fluctuations.
  • Strengthening local economies through improved farm sustainability and profitability, which are economic multipliers in local communities. Helping farm families successfully transition to subsequent generations. Helping new and beginning farmers enter farming operations. Helping to maintain or increase domestic markets and increase export markets for grain crops and tobacco by improving quality of commodities compared to that of foreign competitors.  
  • Helping to educate turfgrass managers on how to maintain surfaces that meet the needs of their desired uses while improving economic and environmental benefits of turfgrasses.
  • Work with farmers and those interested in farming on generational succession in farms to improve sustainability of the farms for generations.
  • Develop and implement a comprehensive framework for disaster readiness and climate adaptation that includes advanced forecasting, crop selection, and management practices to prepare for extreme weather events.
  • 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)). 
  • Forests ecosystem and economic values are enhanced, resulting?in?healthier forests, improved water quality, and increased revenue? 
  • Wildlife habitat is increased and improved. 
  • The sustainability of agricultural and forestry operations is increased and opportunities for further growth are improved. 
  • Achieve a stable economic environment where small farms are consistently profitable and competitive within both local and broader markets. 
  • Establish networks of urban farms that are integral to their local food systems, providing fresh produce and fostering urban-rural agricultural links. 
  • Strive to have all participating small farms fully implement sustainable practices that protect and enhance natural resources. 
  • Equip small farms to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of changing climate patterns, ensuring their sustainability and resilience. 
  • Enhance the role of small farms in maintaining rural populations and contributing to cultural heritage, ensuring that these communities remain vibrant and connected. 

Intermediate Outcomes:

• 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.
• Increased biosecurity strategies that promote both animal and human health related behaviors for a safe food system.
• Increase or strengthen partnerships or relationships with commodity groups to address sustainable management strategies, health-focused care, and economic viability for all livestock.
• Annually evaluate how they care for and manage their horses using cost effective strategies. 
• Consider how they can use good biosecurity practices to ensure the health of their horses.  
  • Continue development and dissemination of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices by specialists and agents to educate producers and promote IPM practices and/or organic practices that reduce chemical inputs while maintaining crop health and productivity.
  • 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.
  • Explore the use of emerging production technologies to achieve increased adoption of technologies such as monitoring crop productivity, crop quality, soil health, and soil moisture levels across Kentucky's agricultural sectors.
  • Adoption of improved pesticide safety practices
  • Increased adoption of effective crop protection (i.e. IPM) methods by stakeholders to manage diseases
  • Increased number of stakeholders who scout for diseases, monitor disease risk factors, and use research-based information
  • Early identification of potential disease outbreaks and awareness of disease trends
  • Judicious use of pesticide-based disease management
  • Expansion of Extension programming by broadening the scope of extension services to include more comprehensive support for grain crops, forages, tobacco, hemp, and turfgrass suited to Kentucky's changing climate and soil conditions.
  • Explore the use of emerging production technologies to achieve increased adoption of technologies for such things as monitoring crop productivity, crop quality, soil health and soil moisture levels across Kentucky's agricultural sectors.
  • Adoption of improved pesticide application practices.  Improve understanding and compliance with state pesticide applicator regulations.
  • Proper implementation of technologies to help farmers, crop consultants, and pesticide applicators monitor, document, plant, harvest, and manage crops and forages. Technologies can include, but are not limited to, global navigation systems, section controls, applicator maps, soil sampling maps, yield maps, unmanned aerial vehicles, genetic traits, data analysis, etc.
  • New or improved practices, behaviors, or choices that will occur in participants or communities because of the knowledge or awareness they gained from their contact with Extension (these are behavior change outcomes that are typically measured in follow-up evaluations because they require time to mature.) 
  • Actively install and use resource monitoring technology to assist in data-driven decision to monitor their forest’s health forest health, water resources, and land usage.  
  • Increase the number of Woodland owners that participate in economic incentives programs adopting sustainable forestry, water conservation, and soil management practices.  
  • 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. 
  • Assist small farm owners in developing and implementing comprehensive whole farm plans that address financial, production, and environmental aspects. 
  • Support the establishment of new farm enterprises that can offer innovative products and practices, enhancing the economic resilience of the small farm sector. 
  • Provide robust support for estate planning and farm transitions to ensure the longevity of small farms across generations. 
  • Develop and disseminate advanced risk management tools and insurance products tailored for the unique needs of small farms. 
  • Increase the accessibility of modern agricultural technologies to small farms, coupled with training programs that enable owners to effectively use these technologies. 

Initial Outcomes:

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.

Horses are kept primarily for sport and recreation. The majority of CES clientele can be placed in one of three general categories: 1) the new or first-time owner. These owners may have recently purchased a horse or have taken over full-time care of their horse, 2) Horse owners that have experience but are looking to validate what they do to make sure they are on the right track, and 3) the long time horse owner who is looking to improve management of their horses. 

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

• New horse owners can implement the management practices that fit their needs as new horse owners.  

• Long time horse owners can see the new technologies and management practices that may benefit their horse operations.  

• Improve management skills to improve sustainability and reduce cost of ownership. 

  • Increase adoption of data-driven practices through immediate trainings, workshops, and field visits to educate producers on the latest data-driven agricultural technologies, focusing on efficient resource utilization, pest resistance, and yield improvements.
  • Enhanced soil and water management programs by rolling out targeted extension programs that focus on soil health and water management techniques to immediately improve crop yield potentials.
  • Support for crop trials by initiating pilot projects that support the planting of diverse crops and horticultural species, such as vegetables, small fruit, tree fruit, herbs, and ornamental plants to assess short-term viability and consumer interest.
  • Initial and continuing education opportunities for certified pesticide applicators
  • Stakeholders have knowledge and tools needed to better protect crops from diseases and to understand the benefits of adopting best disease management practices and resistance mitigation
  • Stakeholders are more aware of current and new and/or emerging disease issues
  • Stakeholders have access to timely diagnostics to avoid or reduce the impact of disease outbreaks
  • Stakeholders are more aware of UK plant pathology research and resources
  • Increase adoption of data-driven practices through immediate trainings, workshops, and field visits to educate producers on the latest data-driven agricultural technologies, focusing on efficient resource utilization, pest resistance, sustainability, and yield improvements.
  • Enhanced soil and water management programs by rolling out targeted extension programs that focus on soil and water management techniques to immediately improve crop yield potentials and promote environmentally favorable practices.
  • Support for diverse crop trials by initiating pilot projects that support the planting of diverse crops.
  • Fulfillment of annual GAP Training requirements for GAP Certification of tobacco producers.
  • Facilitate trainings to provide necessary knowledge to support those desiring to obtain commercial and non-commercial applicator licenses and maintain CEUs from the Kentucky Department of Agriculture in the turf and ornamental category.
  • Assisting farmers who need to document specific climate objectives and/or management practices of grain and tobacco buyers.
  • 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.  
  • Develop the skills and ability of Woodland owners and Ag producers to actively manage wildlife-related damage and nuisance. 
  • Develop emergency preparedness and response strategies focusing on preserving their Woodlands and mitigating immediate damage from events such as floods and tornadoes. 
  • Develop and launch targeted educational programs that focus on sustainable practices, risk management, and cost reduction specifically tailored for small farm owners. 
  • Increase access to existing resources and tools including online platforms to increase awareness and usability for small farm owners. 
  • Facilitate connections between small farm owners and local markets, including urban markets, to help diversify sales channels and improve income stability. 
  • Implement trial programs for specialty crops that could be suitable for small farms, providing a new avenue for diversification and innovation in crop production. 
  • Organize community events and workshops that foster networking among small farm owners and promote the sharing of best practices and innovations. 

Evaluation:

Initial Outcome: Producers will increase their knowledge, make practice changes and increase overall profitability while improving the public perception of agriculture and the long-term sustainability of our food systems.

Indicator: The number of producers indicating knowledge, practice, profitability and awareness as a result of information presented at Extension sponsored events. Participants in youth programs will demonstrate a skill that was learned or improved.

Method: Post-meeting evaluations

Timeline: Evaluations will be given immediately following programs and one to twenty four months following training sessions.

Initial Outcome: Commercial horticultural producers will increase knowledge and develop plans, execute plans, and increase profitability. Homeowners will improve practices, health and increase savings.

Indicator: The number of producers indicating knowledge, practice, and increased profitability.

Method: Post-meeting evaluations

Timeline: Evaluations will be given immediately following programs and one to twenty for months after programs.

Learning Opportunities:

Audience: Current & prospective crop producers, agribusiness representatives

Project or Activity: Grain day

Content or Curriculum: Grain production education

Inputs: Agent’s time, paid staff, facilities, UK specialists, UK publications

Date: Winter 2025

Audience: Current & prospective grain & forage producers, Agribusiness representatives

Project or Activity: Promoting UK Performance Trials

Content or Curriculum: small grain, soybean, corn hybrid and forage performance variety trial information and education

Inputs: radio programs, newsletters, one-on-one consultations

Date: 2025-2026 program year

Audience: Extension Agents, current & prospective producers, landowners, agribusiness representatives

Project or Activity: UK Zoom Program Series

Content or Curriculum: Timely beef and forage production information accessible by agents and clients anywhere there is an internet connection

Inputs: Agent time, paid staff, UK specialists, Computers, Extension pubs

Date: 2025-2026 program year

Audience: Crop and Livestock Producers

Project or Activity: Phase I Programming for Crops/Livestock

Content or Curriculum: Educational information pertaining to crop and livestock production

Inputs: Agent’s time, paid staff, newsletters, Kentucky Office of Agricultural Policy, UK resources

Date: January-April 2026

Audience: Current & Perspective Tobacco Producers, Agribusiness Representatives

Project or Activity: Tobacco Production & Disease Control 

Content or Curriculum: variety selection, pest management, fertility, tillage, sucker control, GAP training

Inputs: Agent’s time, paid staff, UK specialists, Extension publications, newsletters, radio programs

Date: 2025-2026 program year

Audience: Crop Producers, crop advisors, agribusiness representatives

Project or Activity: In-County Italian Ryegrass Herbicide Resistance Research

Content or Curriculum:  pre and post emergent herbicide treatments, various treatments and combinations in each block

Inputs: Agent’s time, paid staff, facilities, UK specialists, UK publications, newsletters

Date: 2025-2026 program year

Audience: Current & Perspective beef producers, agribusiness representatives 

Project or Activity: Educational Beef Meetings

Content or Curriculum: Kentucky Cattleman’s Association, UK, industry educators, Beef Council

Inputs: Agent’s time, paid staff, meeting facilities, UK specialists, Industry specialists, Radio programs, Newsletters

Date: 2025-2026 program year

Audience: General public, current and prospective beef producers

Project or Activity: Beef Month Promotion

Content or Curriculum: beef educational and nutritional information, social media awareness, food safety

Inputs: Agent’s time, media outlets, paid staff, newsletters, KY Beef Network

Date: May 2026

Audience: Current and prospective beef producers

Project or Activity: Simpson Beef Tour

Content or Curriculum: beef educational information, Extension Beef Specialists

Inputs: Agent’s time, paid staff, newsletters

Date: Summer 2026

Audience: General Public

Project or Activity: Ag Appreciation Breakfast

Content or Curriculum: agriculture promotion and awareness, showcase local food products, 4-H Country Ham Project

Inputs: Agent’s time, paid staff, newsletters, radio programs, local food producers, Ag Advisory Council, 4-H members

Date: March 2026

Audience: 4th & 5th Grades

Project or Activity: Safety Field Day

Content or Curriculum: 4th & 5th Grade KY Science Content, 4-H Core Content Curriculum, Progressive Agriculture curriculum 

Inputs: Extension Agents, Lincoln Park, KDA, Local Businesses/Organizations, School District

Date: April 2026

Audience: General Public

Project or Activity: Franklin-Simpson Boofest

Content or Curriculum: showcase past and present agricultural production through AGgtivities methods and agencies supporting agriculture

Inputs: Agent’s time, paid staff, media promotion, newsletters, Ag Advisory Council

Date: October 2025

Audience: Migrant Workers and Farmers

Project or Activity: Bridging Communication Barriers on the Farm

Content or Curriculum: terminology, translation tools, UK publications, curriculum developed by Extension Agent and Literacy Center

Inputs: Agent’s time, paid staff, Literacy Center, UK resources, newsletters, radio program

Date: 2025-2026 program year

Audience:  General Public  

Project or Activity:  In the Field with UK Extension Video Series

Content or Curriculum:  timely agriculture and horticulture topics addressed by Simpson and Allen County Extension Agents for Agriculture and posted to YouTube for viewing

Inputs:  Agents time, video equipment and software, paid staff 

Date:  2025-2026 program year

Audience: Industry 

Project or Activity: SOKY Commercial Pesticide Training

Content or Curriculum: Commercial Pest Control Education

Inputs: Agent’s time, paid staff, facilities, UK specialists, industry specialists, UK publications, newsletters, radio programs

Date: November 2025

Audience: Agricultural producers

Project or Activity: Private Pesticide Applicators Training

Content or Curriculum: proper handling, storage, application methods, calibration, etc.

Inputs: Agent’s time, paid staff, meeting facility, UK resources, newsletters, radio program

Date: February – March 2026

Audience: Franklin-Simpson Farmers’ Market Vendors

Project or Activity: Franklin-Simpson Farmers’ Market

Content or Curriculum: production and marketing education, F-S Farmers’ Market promotional events, food safety education

Inputs: Agents’ time, paid staff, meeting facility, UK publications, KDA resources, newsletters, radio programs

Date: 2025-2026 program year

Audience: Community Gardening

Project or Activity: Container Garden Kits and Educational Videos

Content or Curriculum: food production education, nutrition

Inputs: Agents, UK publications, Tractor Supply Co., School District, Video Equipment and Editing Software

Date: April - June 2026

Audience: Franklin Public Housing Residents

Project or Activity: Housing Authority Demonstration Garden Project

Content or Curriculum: proper production practices, recipes, food preservation techniques

Inputs: Agent’s time, paid staff, Housing Authority land and staff, UK resources, newsletters, radio program

Date: 2025-2026 program year

Audience: Farm Tour

Project or Activity: take Simpson County residents to various agritourism venues in nearby counties

Content or Curriculum: horticultural production involving flowers and foods

Inputs: Agents, UK publications, charter bus

Date: June 2026

Audience: Small and Mid-sized fruit producers and homeowners

Project or Activity: Fruit tree workshop

Content or Curriculum: pruning and production

Inputs: Agent’s time, paid staff, UK specialists, UK publications, newsletters, radio programs

Date: March 2026

Audience: Home Vegetable Gardeners

Project or Activity: Food Production Educational Programs

Content or Curriculum: preparation, maintenance, harvesting 

Inputs: Agent’s time, paid staff, Library meeting facilities and staff, UK specialists, newsletters, radio programs

Date: 2025-2026 program year

Audience:  Youth

Project of Activity:  4-H Gardening & Homesteading Clubs

Content or Curriculum:  Hands-on demonstrations teaching how to & allowing youth to plant, maintain, harvest, and market garden produce

Inputs:  Agents, paid staff, video equipment and software, Farmers' Market, Simpson Co. Schools Community Education 

Date:  July 2025-June 2026

Audience: 4-H Members

Project or Activity: Horticulture Judging and Jr. Forestry Field Day

Content or Curriculum: State Fair Guidelines

Inputs: Mammoth Cave National Park & Employees, UK Specialists, Extension Agents & Offices, 4-H Parents & Volunteers, Community Businesses related to Horticulture

Date: July-September 2025

Audience: Extension Homemakers

Project or Activity: UK Horticulture information 

Content or Curriculum: Extension materials

Inputs: Agent led, train-the trainer for clubs, food and nutrition information

Date: April 2026

Audience: Horticultural enthusiasts

Project or Activity: Master Gardener Program  

Content or Curriculum: UK curriculum

Inputs: Agent time, paid staff, Master Gardener volunteer time, food and nutrition information, radio, newsletters

Date: 2026-2027 program year

Audience: Master Gardener Graduates

Project or Activity: Community Horticulture Project 

Content or Curriculum: Local Food Systems

Inputs: Agent time, Master Gardener volunteer time, food and nutrition information, radio, newsletters

Date: 2025-2026 program year

Evaluation:

Initial Outcome: Producers will increase their knowledge, make practice changes and increase overall profitability while improving the public perception of agriculture and the long-term sustainability of our food systems.

Indicator: The number of producers indicating knowledge, practice, profitability and awareness as a result of information presented at Extension sponsored events. Participants in youth programs will demonstrate a skill that was learned or improved.

Method: Post-meeting evaluations

Timeline: Evaluations will be given immediately following programs and one to twenty four months following training sessions.

Initial Outcome: Commercial horticultural producers will increase knowledge and develop plans, execute plans, and increase profitability. Homeowners will improve practices, health and increase savings.

Indicator: The number of producers indicating knowledge, practice, and increased profitability.

Method: Post-meeting evaluations

Timeline: Evaluations will be given immediately following programs and one to twenty for months after programs.