Owen County CES

County Emphasis:

Agriculture Enhancement and Sustainability

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:

Concentration 1: Animal Production and Management

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.

Concentration 2: Plant Production and Management

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.

Concentration 3: Sustainability, Natural Resources & Wildlife Management, & Environment

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.

Concentration 4: 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:

Concentration 1: Animal Production and Management

Owen County has a strong base of beef and small ruminant producers, but farms are impacted by aging infrastructure, rising costs, and evolving disease management strategies (USDA, 2024). To remain viable, producers must adopt modern techniques and best practices. Extension will provide training on topics such as rotational grazing, animal heath, and recordkeeping. Youth will develop agricultural literacy through 4-H livestock projects.

Concentration 2: Plant Production and Management

Producers in Owen County face challenges with climate variability, soil health, and fluctuating input prices. Opportunities exist for diversifying into small fruit and vegetable production or improving forage management. Extension will support adoption of precision ag, soil testing, and conservation practices, and will promote youth horticulture and plant science programs (UK CES Needs Assessment, 2023; USDA, 2024).   

Concentration 3: Sustainability, Natural Resources & Wildlife Management, & Environment

Owen County's woodlands and wildlife are at risk from invasive species, overgrazing, and water runoff issues. With forests covering 50% of the state (KY Division of Forestry, 2023), woodland owners need tools for proper management. Extension will work with natural resource agencies to increase woodland education, promote conservation practices, and help landowners adapt to climate impacts (CEDIK, 2024). 

Concentration 4: Small Farm Development

Owen County is home to numerous small farms facing difficulty with market access, profitability, and technology adoption. Most are family-run and fall within the NIFA definition of small farms (under $250,000 income) (NIFA, 2024). Extension will support them with training in sustainable practices, risk management, and connections to direct-to-consumer markets (UK CES Needs Assessment, 2023).  

Long-Term Outcomes:

Concentration 1: Animal Production and Management

• Increase the use of sustainable management practices across all production methods and species.
• Producers routinely following Beef Quality Care & Assurance standards to produce healthy and high-quality beef.
• Youth will make informed decisions regarding agricultural products and services.
• Youth will advocate for agriculture and sustainable fiber and food production in their communities.

Concentration 2: Plant Production and Management

• 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.  
• Youth will make informed decisions regarding agricultural products and services.
• Youth will advocate for agriculture and sustainable fiber and food production in their communities.

Concentration 3: Sustainability, Natural Resources & Wildlife Management, & Environment

• 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)). 
• The sustainability of agricultural and forestry operations is increased and opportunities for further growth are improved.
• 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.

Concentration 4: Small Farm Development

• 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.

Intermediate Outcomes:

Concentration 1: Animal Production and Management

• 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. 
• Increase or strengthen partnerships or relationships with commodity groups to address sustainable management strategies, health-focused care, and economic viability for all livestock.
• Youth will practice skills gained from 4-H agricultural projects and clubs.
• Youth will communicate agricultural ideas and concepts more effectively.

Concentration 2: Plant Production and 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.
• Adoption of improved pesticide application practices.  Improve understanding and compliance with state pesticide applicator regulations.
• Youth will practice skills gained from 4-H agricultural projects and clubs.
• Youth will communicate agricultural ideas and concepts more effectively.

Concentration 3: Sustainability, Natural Resources & Wildlife Management, & Environment

• 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.) 
• 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.
• Youth will take responsible action in natural resources conservation.
• Youth will aspire to explore careers in natural resources and environmental sciences.

Concentration 4: Small Farm Development

• 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:

Concentration 1: Animal Production and Management

• Increase knowledge about sustainable and economically viable management practices.
• New horse owners can implement 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.
• Youth will develop a greater awareness and appreciation for the impact of agriculture in their daily life

Concentration 2: Plant Production and Management

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Concentration 3: Sustainability, Natural Resources & Wildlife Management, & Environment

• 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.  
• 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.

Concentration 4: Small Farm Development

• 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. 
• Organize community events and workshops that foster networking among small farm owners and promote the sharing of best practices and innovations.

Evaluation:

Concentration 1: Animal Production and Management

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: 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

 

Concentration 2: Plant Production and Management

Outcome: Improved production practices

Indicator: 

• Number of commercial participants who reported improving their plant production or management practices.
• Number of consumer participants who reported improving their plant production or management practices.

Method: Program evaluation tool/survey or records from individual consultations.

Timeline: After program participation.

 

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

 

Concentration3: Sustainability, Natural Resources & Wildlife Management, & Environment

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: 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 

 

Concentration 4: Small Farm Development

Outcome: Improved commercial production practices for specialty crops 

Indicators: 

• Number of producers who reported increased yield.  
• Number of new or beginning specialty crop growers. 
• Number of producers who reported improved produce quality. 
• Number of trained volunteers.
• Number of commercial growers who reported improved produce quality.
• Number of commercial growers who reported increased yield in specialty crops (fruit, vegetables, herbs, etc.).
• Number of commercial growers who reported that they expanded or developed new markets for specialty crops. 
• Number of commercial specialty crop growers who reported adoption of new technologies (acquisition of greenhouse, high tunnel, lighting, etc.)
• Number of commercial specialty crop growers who reported improved management practices (soil sampling, foliar sampling, integrated pest management, cover cropping, etc.)
• Number of commercial specialty crop growers who reported reduced production inputs/costs.

Method: Grower survey, direct observation and feedback 

Timeline: ongoing 

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:

Concentration 1: Animal Production & Management

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: Ongoing

 

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) 

 

Concentration 2: Plant Production & Management

Audience: Pesticide applicators

Project or Activity: PSEP certification for private applicators and continuing education for commercial applicators

Content or Curriculum: Educational materials and program delivery

Inputs: Coordination with specialists and training coordinators

Date: Ongoing

 

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)

 

Concentration 3: Sustainability, Natural Resources & Wildlife Management & Environment

Audience: Loggers 

Project or Activity: Master Logger Program 

Content or Curriculum: Master Logger Curriculum 

Inputs: Coordination with Kentucky Master Logger Program, Michael Ammerman and Beth Williams 

Dates: Ongoing

 

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)? 

 

Concentration 4: 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: Ongoing

Audience: Non-commercial urban and community gardeners 

Project or Activity: Programming for specialty crop production and management that is non-commercial 

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, community advocacy and faith-based groups, schools 

Dates: Ongoing

Evaluation:

Concentration 1: Animal Production and Management

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: 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

 

Concentration 2: Plant Production and Management

Outcome: Improved production practices

Indicator: 

• Number of commercial participants who reported improving their plant production or management practices.
• Number of consumer participants who reported improving their plant production or management practices.

Method: Program evaluation tool/survey or records from individual consultations.

Timeline: After program participation.

 

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

 

Concentration3: Sustainability, Natural Resources & Wildlife Management, & Environment

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: 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 

 

Concentration 4: Small Farm Development

Outcome: Improved commercial production practices for specialty crops 

Indicators: 

• Number of producers who reported increased yield.  
• Number of new or beginning specialty crop growers. 
• Number of producers who reported improved produce quality. 
• Number of trained volunteers.
• Number of commercial growers who reported improved produce quality.
• Number of commercial growers who reported increased yield in specialty crops (fruit, vegetables, herbs, etc.).
• Number of commercial growers who reported that they expanded or developed new markets for specialty crops. 
• Number of commercial specialty crop growers who reported adoption of new technologies (acquisition of greenhouse, high tunnel, lighting, etc.)
• Number of commercial specialty crop growers who reported improved management practices (soil sampling, foliar sampling, integrated pest management, cover cropping, etc.)
• Number of commercial specialty crop growers who reported reduced production inputs/costs.

Method: Grower survey, direct observation and feedback 

Timeline: ongoing 

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