Fayette County CES

County Emphasis:

Sustainable Agriculture Practices

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 emerging urban agriculture.

County Situation:

Fayette County's agricultural sector is a significant contributor to the local economy, with 682 farms spanning 124,247 acres and generating a market value of $333 million in agricultural products. While farm sizes vary, with most operations between 10 and 179 acres, a small number exceed 1,000 acres, showcasing diverse farming scales. The average age of principal producers is 57.4 years, highlighting an aging farming population, while a balanced representation of male and female producers reflects shifting demographics in agriculture. Nearly 570 producers rely on farming as their primary occupation, facing challenges such as urbanization, economic pressures, and natural hazards that amount to over $34 million in anticipated annual losses. As the industry evolves, strategic planning, technological advancements, and resilience-building measures will be crucial for sustaining agricultural productivity and supporting the future of farming in Fayette County.

Long-Term Outcomes:

• Youth will advocate for natural resources in their communities.
• Youth will make informed decisions regarding agricultural products and services.
• Youth will advocate for agriculture and sustainable fiber and food production in their communities.
• The sustainability of agricultural and forestry operations is increased and opportunities for further growth are improved.
• Strive to have all participating small farms fully implement sustainable practices that protect and enhance natural resources.
• Increase the use of sustainable management practices across all production methods leading to enhanced production efficiency and reductions in the carbon footprint.
• Increase the use of sustainable management practices across all production methods leading to enhanced production efficiency and reductions in the carbon footprint.
• 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)) based on attending heirs property training.
• 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.

Intermediate Outcomes:

• Youth will practice skills gained from 4-H agricultural projects and clubs.
• Youth will communicate agricultural ideas and concepts more effectively.
• Implement climate resilience strategies to withstand the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, sustainable water management, and adapting wildlife
• Assist small farm owners in developing and implementing comprehensive whole farm plans that address financial, production, and environmental aspects
• Management to preserve biodiversity under changing climate conditions.
• Increase or strengthen partnerships or relationships with commodity groups to address sustainable management strategies, health-focused care, and economic viability for all livestock.?
• New or improved practices, behaviors, or choices that will occur in participants or communities because of the knowledge or awareness they gained from Heirs property training
• Adoption of improved pesticide safety practices

Initial Outcomes:

• Youth will explore their spark in agriculture.
• Youth will develop a greater awareness and appreciation for the impact of agriculture in their daily life.
• Youth will understand how their actions and choices impact natural resources and the environment.
• Develop the skills and ability of Woodland owners and Ag producers to actively manage wildlife-related damage and nuisance
• Organize community events and workshops that foster networking among small farm owners and promote the sharing of best practices and innovations.
• Horse owners will evaluate current practices and see where changes might be of benefit.
• Increase confidence in making decisions related to promoting animal health-related behavior.
• Increase skills related to efficient production methods across all species.
• Increase knowledge and skills of individuals in both urban and rural settings to address heirs property, particularly agricultural/farmland   
• Stakeholders are more aware of current and new and/or emerging disease issues

Evaluation:

Outcome	Short
Indicator	Number of youth who reported that they have identified their interest in natural resources. Number of youth who reported that they understand how their actions and choices impact natural resources and the environment. Number of youth who reported that they understand natural resources concepts and ideas.  Number of youth who reported that have set goals to become a good steward of natural resources.
Method	Survey
Timeline	Administered immediately following program/activity

 

Outcome	Medium-term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported that they have used the knowledge and/or skills gained in agriculture to make informed decisions.  Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to pursue gaining more knowledge for a job in animal production based on their interests.   Number of youth who reported that they used knowledge and/or skills gained in animal production to complete a project.  Number of youth who reported that they adopted/applied one or more animal production practices.
Method	Survey
Timeline	Administered at end of program year/club year

 

Outcome	Long-Term
Indicator	Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study.
Method	Survey
Timeline	Administered at end of program year/club year

 

Outcome	Increased awareness of and use of safe/effective pesticide application methods
Indicator	Number of people self-reporting knowledge gain on integrated pest management techniques
Method	Surveys at CEU events
Timeline

 

Outcome	Improved commercial production practices for specialty crops
Indicator	Number of producers that improved quality, adoption of new technologies and better management practices (soil sampling, IPM, e.g.).
Method	Grower survey, direct observation and feedback
Timeline

 

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	Implementation or utilization of knowledge gained to make changes in management of beef operation.
Indicator	Number of participants who reported making a change to improve their beef cattle management practices.
Method	Survey (post program) or records from individual consultations
Timeline	6-12 months after program

 

Outcome	Understanding of equine farm and facility sustainable management
Indicator	Number of participants implementing mud management practices. Number of participants using temporary fences for grazing systems for horses.
Method	Evaluation results and records from individual consultations
Timeline	Ongoing

 

Outcome	Increased Horse Management Knowledge
Indicator	Number of horse owners using hay selection and use based on forage testing evaluation
Method	Evaluation results and/or records from individual consultations
Timeline	ongoing

 

Outcome	Increased awareness of heirs property issues and management
Indicator	Number of participants who reported that they gained knowledge of heirs property terminology.  Number of participants who reported they gained their awareness of local heirs property resources.  Number of participants who reported they gained their awareness of heirs property issues and how to resolve them
Method	Survey (Self-Assessment of Learning Gains)
Timeline	At program

 

Outcome	Increased Awareness of gardening, wildlife and natural resource issues
Indicator	Number of participants who reported that they gained knowledge of best management practices
Method	Survey (Self-assessment of learning gains)
Timeline	End of year surveys

Learning Opportunities:

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	Kentucky 4-H Country Ham Program
Content or Curriculum	Kentucky Animal Science Livestock Discovery Website, Kentucky Livestock Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Ohio State University (OSU) Livestock Resource Handbook, Ohio State University (OSU) Livestock Project and Record Book, Ohio State University (OSU) Learning Lab Kits, National 4-H Project Books and Helper’s Guide, Country Ham Meat Lesson Kit (University of Kentucky)
Inputs	4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful. Certified volunteers in animal sciences (livestock, horse, poultry, rabbit, and dog). Accredited volunteers in agriculture. Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system. Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc. Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants. Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs. Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs. External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.
Date(s)	4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31)  Kentucky 4-H Country Ham Contest (offered Kentucky State Fair - August each year)

 

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	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.
Date(s)	Kentucky 4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31)  Kentucky 4-H Livestock Judging Contest (offered June each year)  Kentucky 4-H Livestock Skillathon and Quiz Bowl Contest (offered each year)  Kentucky 4-H Livestock Shows (offered each year)

 

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	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(s)	4-H Program Year (September 1 – August 31)

 

Audience	4-H Members
Project or Activity	Kentucky 4-H Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences Academy and Teen Ambassador Program
Content or Curriculum	Water, Entomology, Forestry, Wildlife; Curriculum - National and State-Level Research-Based, Vetted Publications, Curricula, and Educational Resources (e.g., Project WET, Project WILD, Project Learning Tree, Project Underground, Leopold Education Project)
Inputs	4-H programs in natural resources in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful to them. Accredited volunteers in natural resources. Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system. Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc. Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants. Engagement of staff, volunteers, and youth in delivering the program.
Date(s)	4-H Program Year (September 1 – August 31)

 

Audience	Adults
Project or Activity	IPM and Pesticide Programs
Content or Curriculum	Educational materials and program delivery
Inputs	UK and subject matter Specialists
Date(s)	TBD

 

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.)
Date(s)

 

Audience	Adult Horse Owners and Farm Managers
Project or Activity	Horses and Horsemen / Pastures Please
Content or Curriculum	Pasture Management practices
Inputs	Extension Specialists ANR Agents and Industry professionals
Date(s)

 

Audience	Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents
Project or Activity	BQCA trainings
Content or Curriculum	State BQCA videos and chute-side trainings
Inputs
Date(s)

 

Audience	Families/ Farm Owners (inherited)
Project or Activity	Heirs Property
Content or Curriculum	Understanding, Resolution, Overview of Heirs Property and Heirs Property info
Inputs	FCS agents, Ag Agent, local attorney, farmland specialist, Liken Knowledge, KSU Educator, Heirs property grant
Date(s)	July- June (based on all inputs availability)

 

Audience	Residents
Project or Activity	Gardner’s Toolbox Classes
Content or Curriculum	Various as assembled from Extension Resources
Inputs	Agents, plants and seeds, volunteers
Date(s)	Ongoing

 

Audience	Residents
Project or Activity	Garden-Related Programs
Content or Curriculum	Extension Publications
Inputs	Agents, volunteers, plants and seeds
Date(s)	Ongoing

Evaluation:

Outcome	Short
Indicator	Number of youth who reported that they have identified their interest in natural resources. Number of youth who reported that they understand how their actions and choices impact natural resources and the environment. Number of youth who reported that they understand natural resources concepts and ideas.  Number of youth who reported that have set goals to become a good steward of natural resources.
Method	Survey
Timeline	Administered immediately following program/activity

 

Outcome	Medium-term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported that they have used the knowledge and/or skills gained in agriculture to make informed decisions.  Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to pursue gaining more knowledge for a job in animal production based on their interests.   Number of youth who reported that they used knowledge and/or skills gained in animal production to complete a project.  Number of youth who reported that they adopted/applied one or more animal production practices.
Method	Survey
Timeline	Administered at end of program year/club year

 

Outcome	Long-Term
Indicator	Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study.
Method	Survey
Timeline	Administered at end of program year/club year

 

Outcome	Increased awareness of and use of safe/effective pesticide application methods
Indicator	Number of people self-reporting knowledge gain on integrated pest management techniques
Method	Surveys at CEU events
Timeline

 

Outcome	Improved commercial production practices for specialty crops
Indicator	Number of producers that improved quality, adoption of new technologies and better management practices (soil sampling, IPM, e.g.).
Method	Grower survey, direct observation and feedback
Timeline

 

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	Implementation or utilization of knowledge gained to make changes in management of beef operation.
Indicator	Number of participants who reported making a change to improve their beef cattle management practices.
Method	Survey (post program) or records from individual consultations
Timeline	6-12 months after program

 

Outcome	Understanding of equine farm and facility sustainable management
Indicator	Number of participants implementing mud management practices. Number of participants using temporary fences for grazing systems for horses.
Method	Evaluation results and records from individual consultations
Timeline	Ongoing

 

Outcome	Increased Horse Management Knowledge
Indicator	Number of horse owners using hay selection and use based on forage testing evaluation
Method	Evaluation results and/or records from individual consultations
Timeline	ongoing

 

Outcome	Increased awareness of heirs property issues and management
Indicator	Number of participants who reported that they gained knowledge of heirs property terminology.  Number of participants who reported they gained their awareness of local heirs property resources.  Number of participants who reported they gained their awareness of heirs property issues and how to resolve them
Method	Survey (Self-Assessment of Learning Gains)
Timeline	At program

 

Outcome	Increased Awareness of gardening, wildlife and natural resource issues
Indicator	Number of participants who reported that they gained knowledge of best management practices
Method	Survey (Self-assessment of learning gains)
Timeline	End of year surveys