Bracken County CES

County Emphasis:

Strengthening/Supporting the local food and agriculture industry

Concentration 1:

Small Farm Development

Concentration 2:

Food Safety, Quality, and Access

Concentration 3:

Plant Production and Management

Concentration 4:

Connected & Resilient Communities

Situation:

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.

It is proven that people who have access to and consume their daily dietary requirements of fresh fruits and vegetables are less likely to suffer from chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease and have an increased quality of life. Having the knowledge and skills to prepare or preserve fresh fruits and vegetables presents an additional barrier beyond obtaining fresh food access.

With the goal of increasing the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service (CES) aims to increase access to fresh food, as well as increase knowledge and awareness of how to select, store, safely prepare, process, and preserve these foods. CES prioritizes statewide partnership development that helps us meet our goals and objectives. We collaborate with statewide agencies including Kentucky Department of Agriculture, Community Farm Alliance, KY Farm to School Network, Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife and others to help build statewide systems that increase access and usage of fresh fruits and vegetables. These programs benefit Kentuckians because they support food access policy, systems and environmental changes in communities and across the state. They increase knowledge of how to grow, prepare, and preserve fresh fruits and vegetables.

Youth Focus

Kentucky faces significant health and economic challenges, with five of the top ten causes of death being nutrition-related. According to the Obesity Action Coalition the cost of obesity reached $36.31 billion. The rapidly changing social and economic landscape underscores the need for a healthy, productive, and engaged young people to contribute to a prepared workforce and engaged community to tackle these challenges. The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension System's 2023 Community Needs Assessment identifies critical priorities, including access to affordable nutritious food, reducing youth obesity through improved nutrition and exercise, and enhancing youth wellbeing through effective coping strategies. Kentucky 4-H plays a crucial role in addressing these needs by equipping young people with essential skills in nutrition, culinary arts, financial education, and entrepreneurship. 69% of youth reported that they learned about healthy food choices in 4-H. 4-H youth report an increase in preparing meals together as a family, increase in meals eaten as a family, and confidence in the kitchen. These programs not only foster healthier, more resilient individuals, but also contribute to the development of engaged citizens prepared to navigate and thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

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.

Kentucky’s communities face unique challenges that require enhancing connectivity and resilience through digital access, social cohesion, and well-designed public spaces. Broadband access remains critical, particularly in rural areas where digital connectivity gaps hinder economic and educational opportunities. The 2023 Community Needs Assessment identified improved broadband and digital literacy as top priorities for enhancing community resilience.

Extension’s connectivity and resilience efforts focus on supporting local economies and helping communities recover from economic shifts and natural disasters (CEDIK, 2024). By promoting digital literacy, educating on safe and vibrant outdoor spaces, and implementing place-based disaster preparedness programs, Extension strengthens community connections and economic sustainability. These initiatives benefit residents, businesses, and local governments, fostering stronger, more resilient communities equipped to face future challenges.

Youth Focus

In today’s rapidly evolving world, youth are and can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of connected and resilient communities. Young people are leveraging technology and social networks to foster strong, supportive relationships that transcend geographical boundaries. They are actively engaged in community-building activities, promoting access to opportunity, and driving change. By participating in local and global initiatives, they are not only enhancing their own resilience but also contributing to the overall strength and adaptability of their communities. Their innovative approaches to problem-solving and their commitment to sustainability are essential in addressing the complex challenges of the 21st century. As they continue to collaborate and share knowledge, youth are laying the foundation for a more connected and resilient world. 4-H is committed to providing the resources necessary to promote youth connection in their communities. Thriving youth are healthy, productive, and engaged (Arnold, 2024). Communities that promote the indicators of youth thriving will have more connected, capable, and committed citizens that can critically think through addressing the needs and priorities of their community.

County Situation:

Bracken County, Kentucky, is a predominantly rural community with a rich agricultural heritage. As of 2022, the county's population was estimated at 8,452, with a significant portion engaged in farming activities . Agriculture plays a vital role in the local economy and cultural identity.Kentucky: By The Numbers

However, the county faces several challenges:

Aging Farmer Population: Between 2010 and 2025, the population aged 65 and over in Bracken County is projected to increase by 45.4%, indicating an aging demographic that could impact the agricultural workforce .Kentucky: By The Numbers

Limited Access to Markets: The county's rural nature and limited infrastructure can hinder farmers' ability to access broader markets, affecting profitability and sustainability.

Shrinking Agricultural Workforce: With younger generations moving to urban areas, there's a noticeable decline in the local agricultural workforce, posing risks to the continuity of farming practices.

Need for Greater Consumer Awareness: There's a pressing need to educate consumers about the benefits of local food systems to boost local consumption and support for farmers.

Despite these challenges, opportunities exist:

Sustainable Farming Practices: Embracing sustainable methods can lead to long-term benefits for both the environment and the local economy.

Farm-to-Table Initiatives: There's growing interest in locally sourced foods, presenting opportunities for farmers to connect directly with consumers.

Agritourism: By leveraging the county's agricultural heritage, agritourism can serve as an additional revenue stream and promote community engagement.

The Cooperative Extension Service plays a crucial role in addressing these challenges and harnessing opportunities:

Education and Outreach: Extension programs have significantly impacted the community. For instance, in the 2022-2023 fiscal year, 320 individuals increased their agricultural awareness due to Extension programming, and 14 clients received training in agricultural leadership development .kers.ca.uky.edu

Youth Engagement: Through 4-H programs, Extension promotes youth involvement in agriculture, ensuring the cultivation of future agricultural leaders.

Community Collaboration: Extension collaborates with local partners to enhance food access, support small producers, and connect consumers with locally grown products, thereby reinforcing the resilience and sustainability of Bracken County’s food and agriculture industry.

By continuing to support and expand these initiatives, Bracken County can strengthen its local food and agriculture industry, ensuring its vitality for future generations.

Long-Term Outcomes:

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. 
• Enhance the role of small farms in maintaining rural populations and contributing to cultural heritage, ensuring that these communities remain vibrant and connected. 

FOOD SAFETY,QUALITY,AND ACCESS

Adult

• Individuals and families of all incomes levels have access to affordable and nutritious foods
• Family farms become economically viable.
• Kentucky’s local food and agriculture industry are thriving.
• Decrease in the number of Kentuckians with chronic health conditions such as diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease.
• More Kentuckians routinely met the guidelines for the consumption of (locally-grown) fresh fruits and vegetables.

Youth

• Youth report reduced risk for poor health, developmental delays, obesity, and malnutrition.    
• Youth increase educational outcomes.  
• Youth decrease poor overall health. 

PLANT PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT

• 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.
  • 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.
•    Youth                                                                                
  • Youth will make informed decisions regarding agricultural products and services.???
  • Youth will advocate for agriculture and sustainable fiber and food production in their communities.??
  • Youth will be life and work ready, contributing to the agricultural community as consumers, leaders, and innovators.

CONNECTED AND RESILIENT COMMUNITIES

Adult

• Increased digital access improves economic and educational opportunities.
• Communities recover faster from disasters/economic disruptions
• Sustained investment in public spaces strengthens local economies
• Cultural heritage is preserved and integrated into communities
• Expanded partnerships enhance problem-solving and resource-sharing
• Improved quality of life through connection and civic engagement

                                                                                   

Youth

• Youth will demonstrate necessary leadership, teamwork, and communication skills needed to be successful in the workplace.? 
• Youth participation in community involvement increases.??? 
• Youth will serve in leadership roles in their community.?? 
• Youth will more effectively communicate, work with others, and contribute to driving change and shaping the future.?? 

Intermediate Outcomes:

SMALL FARM DEVELOPMENT

• 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. 

FOOD SAFETY,QUALITY,AND ACCESS

Adult

• Increase and/or strengthen statewide and regional partnership to address community food system issues.
• Increased production of Kentucky-grown food and increased market opportunities for those products.
• Increase in the number of farmers’ markets and local food retailers that accept one or more food benefits as payment.
• Improved dietary habits through: consumption of more fruits and vegetables, a variety of proteins and the number of meals prepared at home.
• Increased number of entrepreneurial food businesses.

Youth

• Youth will practice making wise nutrition choices.  
• Youth will practice food safety.  
• Youth will access nutritious foods.  
• Youth will prepare nutritious foods.  
• Youth will eat a variety of healthy foods daily. 

PLANT AND PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT

Adult

• 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.

Youth

• Youth will practice skills gained from 4-H agricultural projects and clubs.??
• Youth will communicate agricultural ideas and concepts more effectively.??
• Youth actively adopt and apply advanced agricultural practices, demonstrating a growing commitment to the agricultural community

CONNECTED AND RESILIENT COMMUNITIES

Adult

• More citizens adopt digital tools for work and daily life.
• Communities implement disaster preparedness and recovery strategies.
• More public spaces are revitalized for community engagement.
• Increased participation in cultural and arts-based programs.
• More individuals engage in local governance and civic groups.
• New partnerships and networks address community challenges                                                                        

Youth

• Youth will practice teamwork, responsibility, communication, conflict resolution techniques, and problem-solving skills.?? 
• Youth will plan and implement a service project.

Initial Outcomes:

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. 
• 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. 

FOOD SAFETY,QUALITY,AND ACCESS

Adult

• Increased awareness of and use of Food Connection Programs: Value Chain Coordinators, TFC Learning Kitchen, and Cultivate KY resources.
• Increased awareness of Extension resources and programs supporting food access.
• Improved skills related to safe food preparation and food preservation.
• Increased participation in Homebased Microprocessing workshops.
• Increased awareness and accessibility of community resources available to access fresh foods.
• Increase the number of partnerships and/or coalitions involved in promoting awareness of local food systems, healthy eating, and active living (e.g. Program councils, Health Advisory Boards, etc.).

Youth

• Youth will learn how to make wise nutrition choices.  
• Youth will learn the importance of food safety.  
• Youth learn how to access nutritious foods.  
• Youth will learn how to prepare nutritious foods.  
• Youth will aspire to eat a variety of healthy foods daily.

PLANT PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT

Adult

• 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.

Youth

• Youth will explore their spark in agriculture
• Youth will gain knowledge and develop skills in agriculture.
• Youth will develop a greater awareness and appreciation for the impact of agriculture in their daily life.
• Youth will expand life and work readiness skills in agriculture, gaining awareness of the diverse opportunities within the field of agriculture.

CONNECTED AND RESILIENT COMMUNITIES

Adult

• Increased knowledge of digital tools and online resources.
• Improved understanding of disaster preparedness and recovery strategies.
• Greater awareness of the benefits of public spaces.
• Increased understanding of cultural development and community identity.
• Improved awareness of civic engagement opportunities.
• Greater knowledge of community partnerships and collaboration strategies                                                

Youth

• Youth identify personal strengths that contribute to leadership skill development (communication, teamwork, civic engagement).
• Youth successfully worked in a team environment to accomplish a task.
• Youth realize how their actions impact others

Evaluation:

Outcome: Increased awareness and accessibility of Extension resources and programs supporting food access. (initial)

Indicator: 

• Number of individuals reporting an increased awareness of how to find and prepare local food including responsible hunting/fishing/foraging. 
• Number of policy, systems, and/or environmental changes implemented within communities and organizations to promote active living, and healthy eating, including local food production and/or hunting/foraging and consumption (e.g. local food pantry can accept fresh foods or local game; starting/revitalizing a school or community garden; starting a walking club, etc.). 
• Number of individuals who reported increasing their knowledge, skills, or intentions regarding nutrition and accessing healthy foods through Extension programs and resources. 
• Number of individuals who were introduced to healthy food access points (e.g. farmers’ markets, CSAs, WIC, food pantries) through Extension programs or resources.  

Method: Pre/post participant evaluations from: NEP agent-led curricula, Food Preservation, Champion Food Volunter Leader Training; the Learning Kitchen Participant follow-up eval. TBD; # of certified Champion Food Volunteers in each county;

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration; annual fiscal year (food system impact survey)

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Outcome: Improved skills related to safe food preparation and food preservation. (initial)

Indicator: 

• Number of individuals who reported increasing their knowledge, skills, or intentions regarding the safe storage, handling, preparation and/or preservation of food through Extension programs and resources.  
• Number of individuals who reported supplementing their diets with healthy foods that they grew, harvested, or preserved (e.g. community or backyard gardens, fishing, hunting). 

Method: Pre/post participant evaluations from: NEP agent-led curricula, Champion Food Volunteer, Food Preservation;

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration; annual fiscal year (food system impact survey)

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Outcome: Medium Term  

Indicator: 

• Number of youth who reported that they applied skills and/or knowledge to prepare healthy snacks for self or family.  
• Number of youth who reported that they practiced safe food handling and preparation.  
• Number of youth who reported that they practiced kitchen safety. 
• Number of youth who reported that they have used the skills   and/or knowledge gained to complete a Family Consumer Sciences Project. 

Method: Standard Evaluation Tool for Family Consumer Sciences: Survey

Timeline: End of the program year

Learning Opportunities:

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:

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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:

Audience: Individuals & Farmers

Project or Activity: Nutrition Education

Content or Curriculum: Nutrition Education Program, SNAP-Ed toolkit, Publications, Faithful Families, Cook Together Eat Together, Savor the Flavor, Dining with Diabetes, Plate it up! Kentucky Proud, Food as Health Toolkit, Family Mealtime, maternal and child health program materials, www.planeatmove.com, Super Star Chef, Farm to School, Hunger in Kentucky

Inputs: Programmatic materials, paid staff, community partners, volunteers, faith-based organizations, health coalitions, healthcare Providers and local clinics, health department, non-profits, schools, company health & wellness, 4-H, Homemakers, farmers’ markets, local farmers/growers/producers, commodity groups, community centers, etc. 

Dates: Ongoing

Audience: Youth  

Project or Activity: Nutrition and Food Preparation 

Content or Curriculum: 4-H Cooking: 101, 201, 301, 401 

Inputs: 

• 4-H Family and Consumer Sciences programs in which youth experience a sense of belonging, and developmental relationships, explore their spark, and actively engage in meaningful opportunities.  
• Accredited and certified volunteers in 4-H FCS projects. 
• Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association  
• Four residential camping facilities.  
• Cooperative Extension Educational facilities.  
• Utilization of approved research-based curriculum. 
• Outreach of the Cooperative Extension Land-Grant System.  
• Funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.  
• Funding from local, state, and federal sources.  
• Engagement of youth and volunteers in program delivery. 
• Engaging communities in identifying and implementing programming based on local needs 

Dates: September 1 – August 30 

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Audience: Youth  

Project or Activity: Nutrition and Food Preparation

Content or Curriculum: Put It Up: Food Preservation

Inputs: 

• 4-H Family and Consumer Sciences programs in which youth experience a sense of belonging, and developmental relationships, explore their spark, and actively engage in meaningful opportunities.  
• Accredited and certified volunteers in 4-H FCS projects. 
• Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association  
• Four residential camping facilities.  
• Cooperative Extension Educational facilities.  
• Utilization of approved research-based curriculum. 
• Outreach of the Cooperative Extension Land-Grant System.  
• Funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.  
• Funding from local, state, and federal sources.  
• Engagement of youth and volunteers in program delivery. 
• Engaging communities in identifying and implementing programming based on local needs 

Dates: September 1 – August 30 

Audience: Youth

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

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

Inputs: 

• 4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.???
• Accredited volunteers in agriculture.??
• Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.??
• Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.??
• Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.??
• Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.??
• Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.???
• External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.

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

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

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

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

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

Date: Annual

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Audience: Agricultural producers and the public

Project or Activity: Pest and disease identification

Content or Curriculum: Clinical diagnoses and trainings

Inputs: Diagnostic labs and services

Date: 

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Audience: Specialty crop growers

Project or Activity: Programming for specialty crop production and management

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

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

Date: 

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Audience: 4-Hers, Extension Professionals, Clientele

Project or Activity: Kentucky 4-H Science, Engineering and Technology Programs: Tractor, Energy and Climate Project, Small Engine, Robotics, Computer Science, Rocketry

Content or Curriculum: 

• Purdue 4-H Tractor Series Curriculum 
• National 4-H The Power of Wind Curriculum, National 4-H Weather and Climate Curriculum National Energy Education Development (N.E.E.D.) Curriculum 
• National 4-H Small Engine Curriculum  
• National 4-H Junk Drawer Robotics Curriculum, Sphero.edu Web Based Curriculum, Ozobot and Ozoblockly Web Based Curriculum 
• National 4-H Discovering Computer Science Curriculum, National 4-H WearTec Curriculum, Hour of Code Web Based Curriculum, University of Illinois 4-H Esports Curriculum, Apple Community Education Initiative 
• National 4-H Aerospace Adventures Curriculum, NASA Educators Curriculum, National Association of Rocketry (NAR) 

Inputs: 

• 4-H programs in energy usage and sources in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.   
• Educated 4-H Agents, Program assistants and volunteers in 4-H Petroleum Power Curriculum.  
• Accredited volunteers in SET.  
• 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 Tractor and Farm Equipment dealers and industries in Kentucky. 

Date: Program Year

Evaluation:

Outcome: Increased awareness and accessibility of Extension resources and programs supporting food access. (initial)

Indicator: 

• Number of individuals reporting an increased awareness of how to find and prepare local food including responsible hunting/fishing/foraging. 
• Number of policy, systems, and/or environmental changes implemented within communities and organizations to promote active living, and healthy eating, including local food production and/or hunting/foraging and consumption (e.g. local food pantry can accept fresh foods or local game; starting/revitalizing a school or community garden; starting a walking club, etc.). 
• Number of individuals who reported increasing their knowledge, skills, or intentions regarding nutrition and accessing healthy foods through Extension programs and resources. 
• Number of individuals who were introduced to healthy food access points (e.g. farmers’ markets, CSAs, WIC, food pantries) through Extension programs or resources.  

Method: Pre/post participant evaluations from: NEP agent-led curricula, Food Preservation, Champion Food Volunter Leader Training; the Learning Kitchen Participant follow-up eval. TBD; # of certified Champion Food Volunteers in each county;

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration; annual fiscal year (food system impact survey)

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Outcome: Improved skills related to safe food preparation and food preservation. (initial)

Indicator: 

• Number of individuals who reported increasing their knowledge, skills, or intentions regarding the safe storage, handling, preparation and/or preservation of food through Extension programs and resources.  
• Number of individuals who reported supplementing their diets with healthy foods that they grew, harvested, or preserved (e.g. community or backyard gardens, fishing, hunting). 

Method: Pre/post participant evaluations from: NEP agent-led curricula, Champion Food Volunteer, Food Preservation;

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration; annual fiscal year (food system impact survey)

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Outcome: Medium Term  

Indicator: 

• Number of youth who reported that they applied skills and/or knowledge to prepare healthy snacks for self or family.  
• Number of youth who reported that they practiced safe food handling and preparation.  
• Number of youth who reported that they practiced kitchen safety. 
• Number of youth who reported that they have used the skills   and/or knowledge gained to complete a Family Consumer Sciences Project. 

Method: Standard Evaluation Tool for Family Consumer Sciences: Survey

Timeline: End of the program year