Russell County CES

County Emphasis:

Improving Community Wellness

Concentration 1:

Animal Production and Management

Concentration 2:

Plant Production and Management

Concentration 3:

Food Safety, Quality, and Access

Concentration 4:

Health and Wellbeing

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 farm development practices include animal and plant, crop, and foliage production. 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.? 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. Producers use data-driven approaches for efficient resource utilization while exploring new crop varieties for pest resistance and yield improvement. Cooperative Extension Service offers research-based guidance on production strategies to assist landowners ensure their farms are productive and environmentally sustainable for future needs.

 

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. The opportunities and resources available to support the health and well-being of adults and families in Kentucky vary widely. Disparities in health-promoting knowledge, resources, and infrastructure contribute to higher rates of chronic health conditions and lower quality of life. Prevention, early detection, and care are essential to maintain and/or improve quality of life. In addition, having the knowledge and skills to prepare or preserve fresh fruits and vegetables presents an additional barrier beyond obtaining fresh food access.? 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 also aims to become a critical public health partner for addressing disparities in health-promoting knowledge, resources, and infrastructure through comprehensive health, nutrition, and wellness programming that supports adult physical health and well-being. With these initiatives, CES will target health and wellness in a holistic approach to better serve Kentucky.

County Situation:

Russell County’s agricultural sector is a cornerstone of the local economy and community, with 61% of the county’s land dedicated to farming. The county’s farms, primarily between 10 and 179 acres, generate a market value of $54,891,000 in crops and livestock, with a focus on beef and sheep production. However, financial sustainability remains a challenge, as the median farm earns $85,902 annually while facing production costs of $64,967. Many farmers operate on narrow margins, and with 467 full farm owners and a median farmer age of 57, the future of local agriculture depends on attracting and supporting younger generations. Currently, only 42 farmers are under the age of 25, and just 104 fall within the 25–34 range, highlighting the need for programs that encourage new farmers through education, mentorship, and financial incentives. 

Despite the county’s agricultural strength, food insecurity remains a pressing issue. Child food insecurity stands at 17.9%, with an overall rate of 16.2%. Additionally, 26.5% of children live in poverty, and 1,341 receive SNAP benefits, while 421 rely on WIC. In total, 3,294 county residents depend on SNAP assistance, demonstrating a significant gap between food production and local access to nutritious food. With only six grocery stores, including convenience stores, many families face limited options for fresh and healthy food. Expanding local food markets, farm-to-school initiatives, and community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs can help bridge this gap by increasing direct access to farm-fresh products while also supporting local producers. 

Health and wellness concerns further compound these challenges. A significant 32.9% of adults report no leisure-time physical activity, while 11.6% of adults over 20 have been diagnosed with diabetes. Additionally, 21.7% of the population reports fair or poor health. These issues highlight the need for integrated solutions that not only provide greater food security but also promote healthy eating and active lifestyles. Investing in nutrition education, physical activity programs, and local food initiatives can improve overall well-being while strengthening the agricultural economy. 

To ensure a sustainable future for Russell County, a multi-faceted approach is needed—one that strengthens farm viability, expands food access, and promotes community health. Supporting young and small-scale farmers, diversifying agricultural production, and reducing costs through innovative practices can enhance long-term sustainability. At the same time, expanding food assistance programs, increasing opportunities for local food distribution, and promoting wellness initiatives will help improve the quality of life for all residents. By aligning agricultural sustainability with community well-being, Russell County can build a stronger, healthier, and more resilient future. 

Long-Term Outcomes:

Youth will be life and work-ready, contributing to the agricultural community as consumers, leaders, and innovators.

• Producers are routinely following Beef Quality Care & Assurance standards to produce healthy and high-quality beef.  

• Continually adoption of new technology and production practices 

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

• Youth increase educational outcomes. 

• 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. 

• Youth will increase contributions to their communities through applying critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication learning in the 4-H Health and Well-Being Core Content Area. 

• Improved quality of life 

• Kentucky 4-H members report decreased obesity.  

 

Intermediate Outcomes:

• 4-H members will practice general wellness habits.  

• 4-H members will increase physical activity and healthy food choices.   

• Increased health-promoting behaviors that support family, community, and occupational health and safety 

• Youth will practice food safety.   

• Improved dietary habits through: the consumption of more fruits and vegetables, a variety of proteins and the number of meals prepared at home. 

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

• 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. 

• 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.

Initial Outcomes:

• Increased knowledge about health-promoting behaviors. 

• Increased knowledge of general wellness practices and improved attitudes towards healthy habits 

• Youth will learn the importance of food safety.

• Improved skills related to safe food preparation and food preservation. 

• Youth will gain knowledge and develop skills in agriculture.

• Initial and continuing education opportunities for certified pesticide applicators 

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

Evaluation:

 

Outcome	Increased knowledge about health-promoting behaviors (e.g., how to prepare nutritious foods, benefits of routine vaccinations/screenings) (initial)
Indicator	Number of participants who reported/demonstrates improved knowledge, skills, opinions, or confidence regarding a health-promoting behavior as a result of a participating in a health and well-being program
Method	Observation by Agent or self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration

 

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	re/post participant evaluations from: agent-led curricula, Champion Food Volunteer, Food Preservation; etc.
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration

 

Outcome	Short Term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported that they learned the difference between healthy and unhealthy snacks. Number of youth who reported that they learned about safe food handling and preparation. Number of youth who reported that they learned about kitchen safety.  Number of youth who reported that they have identified an interest in Family Consumer Sciences. Number of youth who reported an increased knowledge of egg and/or poultry food safety practices.  Number of youth who demonstrated/reported improved egg and/or poultry cooking skills.  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	Evaluation Provided by Animal Food Sciences Department
Timeline	Immediate Post Program

 

 

Outcome	Improved production practices
Indicator	Number of producers who reported increased knowledge of crop and forage production, fertility management, varieties, pest control, and/or sustainable practices.
Method	Surveys, participant feedback, CES agent feedback
Timeline	Annual

 

Outcome	Short-Term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported increased understanding of the impact (or role) of plant production in their daily lives.  Number of youth who reported an increased interest in plant production and management. Number of youth who reported that they understand plant production concepts and ideas.  Number of youth who reported that they have identified at least one job/career in plant production and management that fits their interest
Method	Survey
Timeline	administered immediately following program/activity

 

Outcome	implementation or utilization of knowledge gained to make changes in management of small ruminant operation.
Indicator	Number of participants that have made changes to improve management of their small ruminant operation.
Method	Survey (post program)?
Timeline	Follow-up survey or records from individual consultations

 

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.
Method	Survey
Timeline	Immediate Post Program

 

Youth 

Outcome	Short Term
Indicator	Number of partnerships with community organizations, institutions, agencies, or individuals to address mental health and wellbeing for youth in the community.  Number of youth who reported an increased knowledge of how to respond to mental health concerns.  Number of youth who intend to adopt self-care strategies to improve their own mental health and wellbeing.   Number of youth who intend to adopt strategies to support or promote mental health and wellbeing in their community.   Number of youth who reported intended behavior change as a result of participation in mental health and wellbeing programming.
Method	Survey
Timeline	Immediately post-program

  

Outcome	Medium Term
Indicator	Number of youth who adopted self-care strategies to improve their own mental health and wellbeing.  Number of youth who adopted strategies to support or promote mental health and wellbeing in their community.   Number of youth who reported behavior change as a result of participation in mental health and wellbeing programming.
Method	Survey
Timeline	3-6 Months post-program

  

Outcome	Long Term
Indicator	Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study.
Method	Survey or Interview
Timeline	1+ years

 

 

Learning Opportunities:

Audience	Local Farmers
Project or Activity	Soil Sampling & Programs
Content or Curriculum	ANR Resources, publications, databases
Inputs	Soil Sampling, UK Resources
Date(s)	Yearly

 

Audience	Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents
Project or Activity	BQCA training
Content or Curriculum	State BQCA videos and chute-side trainings
Inputs	Soil Sampling, UK Resources
Date(s)	As Needed

 

Audience	Sheep Producers, Industry Representatives, Agents
Project or Activity	In-service updates/trainings
Content or Curriculum	online series, in-person trainings developed as needed
Inputs	Coordination by AFS Personnel and Specialists
Date(s)	As Needed

 

Audience	Adults
Project or Activity	Grain crop management, including Corn, Soybean, Wheat, Barley, Rye, Canola and others
Content or Curriculum	Publications, Fact Sheets, Workshops, Field Days, County Meetings, Regional Meetings, Field Visits, emails and phone calls
Inputs	Soil Sampling, UK Resources
Date(s)	As Needed

 

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
Date(s)	Ongoing

 

Audience	4-H Youth
Project or Activity	4-H Clubwork (Livestock, Dairy, Horse, Poultry, Rabbit, Dog, and Vet Science)
Content or Curriculum	Livestock: 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 Dairy:?4-H Livestock Discovery, Kentucky Livestock Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Holstein Foundation Study Questions Horse:?Ohio State University (OSU) Horse Learning Lab Kit, Kentucky Horse Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Horse Reference Manual (Alberta 4-H), 4-H Horse Academy, Kentucky 4-H Horse Website
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)

 

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.
Date(s)	Ongoing

 

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	Nutrition and Food Preparation
Content or Curriculum	Exploring My Plate, International Foods, Passport Kitchen, Global Table, Teen Cuisine, Culinary Challenge, LEAP
Inputs	LEAP, 4-H Curriculum, KEHA, Volunteers
Date(s)	Sept 1- August 31; ongoing

 

 

Audience	Families & Individuals
Project or Activity	Nutrition and Food Preparation
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, Cook Wild Ky, Food as Health Toolkit, Recovery Garden Toolkit, Family Mealtime, maternal and child health program materials
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, community partners, volunteers, faith-based organization, health coalitions, healthcare Providers and local clinics, health department, non-profits, schools, company health and wellness, Homemakers, farmers’ markets, local farms/growers/producers, commodity groups, community centers, etc.
Date(s)	Ongoing

 

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	Nutrition and Food Preparation
Content or Curriculum	Exploring My Plate, International Foods, Passport Kitchen, Global Table, Teen Cuisine, Culinary Challenge, LEAP
Inputs	LEAP, 4-H Curriculum, KEHA, Volunteers
Date(s)	Sept 1- August 31; ongoing
Audience	4-Hers, Extension Professionals, Clientele
Project or Activity	Your Feelings Matter (Club/Group/Individual)
Content or Curriculum	Your Feelings Matter Curriculum. Additional resources include Healthy Bodies: Teaching Kids What They Need to Know, Mental Health First Aid, and National Alliance on Mental Illness.
Inputs	These programs are supported by the research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system, funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc., local, state, and federal sources, grants, and the engagement of volunteers, youth, communities, and external stakeholders such as civic groups. Focus is on Grades 4-8.
Date(s)	Program Year

  

Audience	4-Hers, Extension Professionals, Clientele
Project or Activity	Your Thoughts Matter (Club/Group/Individual)
Content or Curriculum	Your Thoughts Matter Curriculum. Additional resources include Healthy Bodies: Teaching Kids What They Need to Know, Mental Health First Aid, and National Alliance on Mental Illness
Inputs	These programs are supported by the research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system, funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc., local, state, and federal sources, grants, and the engagement of volunteers, youth, communities, and external stakeholders such as civic groups. Focus is on Grades 7-12.
Date(s)	Program Year

  

Audience	4-Hers, Extension Professionals, Clientele
Project or Activity	Mental Health First Aid
Content or Curriculum	Mental Health First Aid (Youth). Additional resources include Healthy Bodies: Teaching Kids What They Need to Know, and National Alliance on Mental Illness
Inputs	These programs are supported by the research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system, funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc., local, state, and federal sources, grants, and the engagement of volunteers, youth, communities, and external stakeholders such as civic groups. Focus is on Adults working with youth.
Date(s)	Program Year

 

 

Evaluation:

 

Outcome	Increased knowledge about health-promoting behaviors (e.g., how to prepare nutritious foods, benefits of routine vaccinations/screenings) (initial)
Indicator	Number of participants who reported/demonstrates improved knowledge, skills, opinions, or confidence regarding a health-promoting behavior as a result of a participating in a health and well-being program
Method	Observation by Agent or self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration

 

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	re/post participant evaluations from: agent-led curricula, Champion Food Volunteer, Food Preservation; etc.
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration

 

Outcome	Short Term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported that they learned the difference between healthy and unhealthy snacks. Number of youth who reported that they learned about safe food handling and preparation. Number of youth who reported that they learned about kitchen safety.  Number of youth who reported that they have identified an interest in Family Consumer Sciences. Number of youth who reported an increased knowledge of egg and/or poultry food safety practices.  Number of youth who demonstrated/reported improved egg and/or poultry cooking skills.  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	Evaluation Provided by Animal Food Sciences Department
Timeline	Immediate Post Program

 

 

Outcome	Improved production practices
Indicator	Number of producers who reported increased knowledge of crop and forage production, fertility management, varieties, pest control, and/or sustainable practices.
Method	Surveys, participant feedback, CES agent feedback
Timeline	Annual

 

Outcome	Short-Term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported increased understanding of the impact (or role) of plant production in their daily lives.  Number of youth who reported an increased interest in plant production and management. Number of youth who reported that they understand plant production concepts and ideas.  Number of youth who reported that they have identified at least one job/career in plant production and management that fits their interest
Method	Survey
Timeline	administered immediately following program/activity

 

Outcome	implementation or utilization of knowledge gained to make changes in management of small ruminant operation.
Indicator	Number of participants that have made changes to improve management of their small ruminant operation.
Method	Survey (post program)?
Timeline	Follow-up survey or records from individual consultations

 

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.
Method	Survey
Timeline	Immediate Post Program

 

Youth 

Outcome	Short Term
Indicator	Number of partnerships with community organizations, institutions, agencies, or individuals to address mental health and wellbeing for youth in the community.  Number of youth who reported an increased knowledge of how to respond to mental health concerns.  Number of youth who intend to adopt self-care strategies to improve their own mental health and wellbeing.   Number of youth who intend to adopt strategies to support or promote mental health and wellbeing in their community.   Number of youth who reported intended behavior change as a result of participation in mental health and wellbeing programming.
Method	Survey
Timeline	Immediately post-program

  

Outcome	Medium Term
Indicator	Number of youth who adopted self-care strategies to improve their own mental health and wellbeing.  Number of youth who adopted strategies to support or promote mental health and wellbeing in their community.   Number of youth who reported behavior change as a result of participation in mental health and wellbeing programming.
Method	Survey
Timeline	3-6 Months post-program

  

Outcome	Long Term
Indicator	Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study.
Method	Survey or Interview
Timeline	1+ years