Magoffin County CES

County Emphasis:

Sustainability of Family Farms

Concentration 1:

Animal Production and Management

Concentration 2:

Plant Production and Management

Concentration 3:

Sustainability, Natural Resources and Wildlife Management, and Environment

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’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. 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.

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 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.

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.

County Situation:

According to the recent Community Needs Assessment, the sustainability of family farms emerged as the top priority for Magoffin County. With 316 farms spread across the area, agriculture remains a cornerstone of the local economy. However, the farming community faces a significant challenge as the majority of producers are over the age of 55, raising concerns about the future of family-run operations. The assessment also highlighted the demographic makeup of local farmers, revealing that 34% of producers are female and 66% are male. As the county looks ahead, efforts to support young and beginning farmers will be critical in preserving the agricultural traditions and ensuring long-term sustainability.

In addition, the Agriculture Advisory Committee emphasized the need to engage the next generation in agriculture. Recognizing that the future of the industry depends on youth involvement, committee members prioritized initiatives aimed at promoting agriculture as a viable and rewarding career option. Their discussion focused on creating more hands-on learning experiences, mentorship programs, and opportunities for young people to explore careers in farming, agribusiness, and agricultural sciences. By fostering interest early, the committee hopes to ensure a strong, sustainable future for agriculture in the county. Plans are underway to collaborate with schools, local farms, and industry leaders to develop programs that inspire and equip young people to carry the agricultural legacy forward.

Long-Term Outcomes:

Increase the use of sustainable management practices across all production methods and species. 

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.

Youth report reduced risk for poor health, developmental delays, obesity, and malnutrition.  

Improved crop sustainability, increased farm profitability and reduced environmental impact using best disease management practices

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

Intermediate Outcomes:

Increase or strengthen partnerships or relationships with commodity groups to address sustainable management strategies, health-focused care, and economic viability for all livestock.

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

Youth will communicate agricultural ideas and concepts more effectively.

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.

Implement climate resilience strategies to withstand the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, sustainable water management, and adapting wildlife management to preserve biodiversity under changing climate conditions.

Initial Outcomes:

Increase the awareness of sustainable forest management practices, economic pressures and technological barriers facing woodland owners and other interested individuals. 

Youth will understand how their actions and choices impact natural resources and the environment.

Youth will explore their spark in agriculture.

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

Initial and continuing education opportunities for certified pesticide applicators

Increase knowledge about sustainable and economically viable management practices. 

Increase skills related to efficient production methods across all species.? 

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

Evaluation:

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: 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

Timeline: Annual

Outcome: Increased awareness of wildlife, forestry, and natural resources issues 

Indicator: 

Number of participants who reported that they gained knowledge of wildlife. 

Number of participants who reported they gained their awareness of forestry. 

Number of participants who reported they gained their awareness of natural resources.   

Method: Survey (Self-Assessment of Learning Gains) 

Timeline: At program 

Youth

Outcome: Short-term

Indicator:

Number of youth who reported that they have realized the impact animal production has in daily life. 

Number of youth who reported that they have an interest in animal production. 

Number of youth who reported that they have identified at least one job/career in animal production and management that fits their interest.   

Number of youth who reported that they understand animal production concepts and ideas.

Number of adults in the county 4-H country ham program.

Method: Survey

Timeline: Immediate Post Program

Learning Opportunities:

Audience: Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents 

Project or Activity: BQCA trainings 

Content or Curriculum: State BQCA videos and chute-side trainings 

Inputs: State BQCA Curriculum

Dates: TBA

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: Kentucky 4-H Livestock Program 

Content or Curriculum: Kentucky Animal Science Livestock Discovery Website, Kentucky Livestock Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Ohio State University (OSU) Livestock Resource Handbook, Ohio State University (OSU) Livestock Project and Record Book, Ohio State University (OSU) Learning Lab Kits, National 4-H Project Books and Helper’s Guide, Kentucky 4-H Livestock Program Overview, Kentucky 4-H Livestock Rules and Guidelines 

Inputs:

4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.

Certified volunteers in animal sciences (livestock, horse, poultry, rabbit, and dog).

Accredited volunteers in agriculture. 

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc. 

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants. 

Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs. 

Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.

External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations. 

Dates: 

Kentucky 4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31) 

Kentucky 4-H Livestock Judging Contest (offered June each year) 

Kentucky 4-H Livestock Skillathon and Quiz Bowl Contest (offered each year) 

Kentucky 4-H Livestock Shows (offered each year) 

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: UK Extension Specialists- activities available to enhance the education program.

Date: TBA

Audience: Loggers 

Project or Activity: Master Logger Program 

Content or Curriculum: Master Logger Curriculum 

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

Dates: TBA

Evaluation:

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: 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

Timeline: Annual

Outcome: Increased awareness of wildlife, forestry, and natural resources issues 

Indicator: 

Number of participants who reported that they gained knowledge of wildlife. 

Number of participants who reported they gained their awareness of forestry. 

Number of participants who reported they gained their awareness of natural resources.   

Method: Survey (Self-Assessment of Learning Gains) 

Timeline: At program 

Youth

Outcome: Short-term

Indicator:

Number of youth who reported that they have realized the impact animal production has in daily life. 

Number of youth who reported that they have an interest in animal production. 

Number of youth who reported that they have identified at least one job/career in animal production and management that fits their interest.   

Number of youth who reported that they understand animal production concepts and ideas.

Number of adults in the county 4-H country ham program.

Method: Survey

Timeline: Immediate Post Program