Robertson County CES

County Emphasis:

Promoting the Future of Agriculture with Youth and Small Farms

Concentration 1:

Small Farm Development

Concentration 2:

Animal Production and Management

Concentration 3:

Plant Production and Management

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. 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.

Plant and animal management ties into the small farm component, especially when it comes to youth. 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.

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.

Youth

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 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.

County Situation:

People, animals and plants are dependent on our Earth’s natural resources. Everything from the air we breathe, to the water we drink, to the soil we use for food production – these resources are vital to our existence. Therefore, it’s important that we care for and respect these resources. Understanding how our daily choices affect our environment, we can conserve natural resources and protect our environment for present and future generations. With the rolling topography of the farms in Robertson County, cropland is a premium. Producers are utilizing cropland for tobacco, hay, grain, and hemp. Rotations are hard to implement based on limitations of suitable cropland. Therefore, inputs such as soil test, annual lime and fertilization, high yielding and disease resistant varieties, and proper crop and forage management are of utmost importance. Producers who are educated and implementing sound growing techniques will increase their on farm production. Additionally, local farmers and home owners are diversifying into horticulture endeavors. We have a few folks involved in the local Farmer’s Market as well as several who sell directly from home. No matter what agriculture endeavors are being done; it is vital that environmentally sound practices are being conducted to protect our natural resources and that land and management decisions are made based on practice understandings. Robertson County is a very rural community. Thus, many young family members will inevitably become stewards of the land. For this reason, among many others, it is important that educational opportunities are provided to youth to increase their knowledge of environmental and soil management practices.

 

There are over 44,000 beef cattle producers in Kentucky and over one million head of beef cows. Kentucky is the eighth largest beef state in the U.S. and has the largest herd east of the Mississippi River. Cash receipts for beef cattle in Kentucky is slowly approaching a billion dollars, even with the fluctuation in marketing prices. Even when prices are high, it is important to educate beef producers on best management practices to: keep costs down, optimize income through management and marketing, be good stewards of the land and practice good animal welfare. These educational programs are targeted to assist our local Agriculture and Natural Resource agents to provide Kentucky beef producers with the tools necessary to be profitable and sustainable. Kentucky is home to 77,000 farms, with the average farm size being 169 acres, compared to the national average of 443 (National Agricultural Statistics Service, 2018). A farm is defined by the United States government as “any place that produced and sold, or normally would produce and sell, $1,000 or more of agricultural products during the census year.” While Kentucky’s population is increasing, the number of people living on farms is decreasing. The top agricultural products produced on Kentucky farms are changing. In 2015, the Top 10 agriculture products in Kentucky were: Broilers, Cattle & Calves, Horses & Other Livestock, Soybeans, Corn, Tobacco, Hay, Dairy Products & Milk, Chicken & Eggs, and Wheat (United States Department of Agriculture – Kentucky, 2015). Likewise, the agriculture scene in Robertson County has changed dramatically in the past several years. From being the most tobacco dependent county in the nation, with most farm efforts directed towards tobacco production, agriculturists in the county have diversified many tobacco farms into other agriculture entities, including that of livestock. According to the most updated statistics, Robertson County houses over 7,000 head of beef cattle. There are a several small flocks of sheep and goats in the county, one hog feeding operation, one dairy farm, and numerous horse owners. Having to travel outside the county for marketing and resource opportunities, it is imperative that livestock producers become educationally equipped to increase production efficiency and marketability of their livestock enterprises. Therefore, the need exists to educate people, particularly youth, about the impact that it makes on their daily lives, as well as the importance of agriculture to the commonwealth.

 

In Robertson County, building livestock education can lead to positive management changes and increased youth showing skills to provide more farm income and show ring success for producers and youth after the post tobacco buyout era. The Ag Development Board, County Extension County, Agriculture Council, Farm Bureau, Cattlemen’s Association, 4-H Council, FFA, and 4-H/FFA Livestock Committee contributed in fulfilling these objectives.

Long-Term Outcomes:

• Achieve a stable economic environment where small farms are consistently profitable and competitive within both local and broader markets.
• 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. 
• Work with farmers and those interested in farming on generational succession in farms to improve sustainability of the farms for generations
• Increased farm productivity because of a reduction in yield and quality losses due to diseases
• 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.
• Continually implementing new technology and production practices.
• Improve the quality of life of animals and humans.
• Increase the quality of beef cattle produced annually contributing to increased and more stable financial position of cattle operations.
• Producers are routinely following Beef Quality Care & Assurance standards to produce healthy and high-quality beef.  

Intermediate Outcomes:

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

Initial Outcomes:

• 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. 
• 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.
• Increase skills related to efficient production methods across all species.? 
• Increase confidence in implementing new and emerging techniques, technology, and production systems.
• Increase confidence in making decisions related to promoting animal health-related behavior.
• 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.

Evaluation:

Outcome: Increased application of recommended horticultural practices for non-commercial production 

Indicators: 

• Number of people that implemented environmental stewardship. 
• Number of people that reduced pesticide applications. 
• Number of community members utilizing the sites and/or amount of produce donated from sites. 
• Number of trained volunteers. 
• Number of self-reported volunteer hours at community sites. 
• Number of producers who reported reduced production inputs/costs. 

Method: Interactions with clients, attendance at Extension educational events, direct observation and feedback 

Timeline: ongoing 

 

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: Medium-Term

Indicator: 

• Number of youth who reported that they have used the knowledge and skills gained in plant production to make informed decisions. 
• Number of youth who reported that they have used the knowledge and/or skills gained in plant production to complete a  project.
• Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to pursue gaining more knowledge for a job in plant production based on their interests.

Method: Survey

Timeline: Administered at end of program year/club year

Outcome: Long Term

Indicator: Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study.

Method: Survey

Timeline: End of program year or several years.

 

Outcome: Improved production practices

Indicator: 

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

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

Timeline: After program participation.

Outcome: Stakeholders have knowledge and tools needed to better protect crops from diseases and understand the benefits of adopting best disease management practices and resistance mitigation. Stakeholders are more aware of UK plant pathology research

Indicator: Number of stakeholders who reported increased knowledge of research-based disease identification and management practices for crops grown in Kentucky and/or share that information with other stakeholders.

Method: Primarily surveys, records from consultations

Timeline: Annual

Outcome: Early identification of potential disease outbreaks

Indicator: 

• Number of stakeholders contacting Extension for help with disease identification and management.
• Number of plant samples submitted to the PDDL.

Method: Sample diagnosis through the PDDL, direct communication with Extension Specialists

Timeline: Annual

 

Outcome: Improved production practices and economic return of production inputs

Indicator: Number of participants who report increased economic return from improved production practices recommended in Plant Production and Management-related Extension programs.

Method: Surveys, participant feedback, CES agent feedback

Timeline: Frequently to annual

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: Improved tobacco production practices, efficiency, and profitability

Indicator: Number of tobacco producers reporting increased economic returns, efficiency, or profitability after attending tobacco production meetings where improved production practices are presented at annual research update meetings.

Method: Surveys, views of research data published on Dark and Burley Tobacco Web pages, views of Dark Tobacco in Kentucky and Tennessee Facebook page, ANR agent feedback

Timeline: annual

Outcome: Identification of diseases and abiotic problems in crops and forages

Indicator: Number of plant diagnoses made annually with diagnosis and recommendation reports sent to ANR agent and grower.

Method: ANR agent feedback, grower feedback

Timeline: Annual

Outcome: Improved tobacco production practices, efficiency, and crop traceability

Indicator: 

• Number of tobacco producers participating in annual GAP Training.
• Number of tobacco producers reporting higher scores on annual third-party GAP Certification audits.

Method: GAP Training survey, Third-party GAP audit administered by GAP Connections, Views of research data published on Dark and Burley Tobacco Web pages, views of Dark Tobacco in Kentucky and Tennessee Facebook page

Timeline: annual

Outcome: Improved adoption of best management practices

Indicator: Number of turfgrass managers who reported that they gained knowledge of improved turfgrass management.

Method: Survey

Timeline: annual

Outcome: Improved adoption of best management practices and compliance with state regulations

Indicator: Number new applicator licenses awarded

Method: Survey and results from the KDA

Timeline: annual

Outcome: Improving forage and livestock management

Indicator: Number of participants that indicate high likelihood of implementation of improved forage and livestock management practices.

Method: Schools, workshops, conferences, and field days.  Information from these events will also be pushed out through KY Forages YouTube Channel and Master Grazer Facebook page.

Timeline: Programs are provided one or more times annually at multiple locations throughout Kentucky

Outcome: Stakeholders have knowledge and tools needed to better protect crops from weeds and understand the benefits of adopting best management practices for weed and resistance mitigation. Stakeholders are more aware of UK weed science research

Indicator: Number of stakeholders who reported increased knowledge of research-based weed identification and/or weed management practices for crops grown in Kentucky.

Method: Primarily surveys, consultations

Timeline: Annual

Outcome: Increased crop management knowledge and skills

Indicator: 

• Number of participants who increased their knowledge of risk management tools. 
• Number of participants who increased their use of risk management tools. 
• Number of participants who reported increased knowledge of plant production and/or management practices.
• Number of participants who reported reducing their inputs or costs in their plant production
• Number of participants who reported increased efficiency in their plant production and/or management

Method: Attendance and program evaluations / surveys

Timeline: Ongoing

 

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

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: Observation 

Timeline: 6 Months Post Program 

Outcome: Long-term

Indicator: Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study. 

Method: Survey

Timeline: 1+ years

 

Outcome: Increased knowledge and/or awareness of management practices to improve small ruminant production efficiency 

Indicator: Number of participants who reported an increase in knowledge and/or awareness of best practices for managing/raising small ruminants. 

Method: Survey  

Timeline: Immediately after program participation. 

 

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: Individuals gain financial management skills for small ruminant operations 

Indicator: Number of individuals that participated in small ruminant financial management programs. 

Method: Survey or records from individual consultations 

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: Increased knowledge and/or awareness of management practices to improve cattle production efficiency 

Indicator: Number of participants who reported an increase in their knowledge and/or awareness of management practices for improving cattle production efficiency. 

Method: Survey  

Timeline: At the program 

 

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: Increased Horse Management Knowledge 

Indicator: 

• Number of horse owners using Body Condition scoring to manage their horses. 
• Number of horse owners changing practices to reduce feed waste. 
• 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 understanding of the horse industry  

Indicator: 

• Number of agent-led horse programing to their county programs. 
• Number of agents supporting Pastures Please and Farm and Facility Expo in their area. 

Method: Evaluation results and/or records from individual consultations 

Timeline: ongoing 

 

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 livestock marketing knowledge 

Indicator: 

• Number of participants who report increasing their knowledge of livestock marketing. 
• Number of individuals who implemented small ruminant financial management programs.

Method: Program evaluation tools/ surveys 

Timeline: Ongoing 

 

Outcome: Increased livestock management knowledge 

Indicator: Number of livestock producers indicating increased understanding of farm management. 

Method: Program evaluation tools / surveys 

Timeline: Ongoing 

 

Outcome: Increased awareness of and use of safe/effective pesticide application methods 

Indicator: 

• Number of certified applicators earning continuing education credit. 
• Number of participants reporting an increase in knowledge on integrated pest management techniques.  
• Number of participants reporting an increase in their use of risk mitigation strategies for pesticide application.  

Method: Surveys at CEU events 

Timeline:  Ongoing

 

Outcome: Increased knowledge and awareness of management practices to improve poultry production efficiency and food safety 

Indicator: 

• Number of participants indicating an increase in knowledge and/or awareness of poultry production 
• Number of participants who demonstrated/reported improved eggs and/or poultry cooking skills.
• Number of participants who increased their knowledge of the equipment and methods used in meat processing.
• Number of participants who reported an increase in knowledge of animal harvesting and carcass fabrication skills.
• Number of participants who reported an increased knowledge of egg and/or poultry food safety practices.
• Number of participants indicating an increase in knowledge and/or awareness of poultry production.
• Number of participants reporting an increase in knowledge on integrated pest management techniques.

Method: Survey

Timeline: At the program

Learning Opportunities:

Audience: Non-commercial 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: 2025-2026

 

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: 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: Private Applicator Videos, Activities, and Power Points. UKY Publications. 

Date: 2025-2026 

 

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:2025-2026 

 

Audience: Home owners and consumers

Project or Activity: Programming for home gardening and landscape management

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

Inputs: Extension Specialists, USDA funding, county agents, KDA

Date: 2025-2026 

 

Audience: Grain crop, forage, tobacco, and hemp producers, agribusiness and government agencies

Project or Activity: Programs that support soil fertility and soil management practices to improve crop production, reduce negative environmental impacts, and enhance overall profitability in a sustainable manner.

Content or Curriculum: Educational materials to include Publications, Fact Sheets, Newsletters, Workshops, Field Days, County Meetings, Regional Meetings, TV and Radio Broadcasts, Videos, Field Visits, emails and phone calls

Inputs: UK Soil and Crops Specialists, experts and interested parties

Date: Frequently to annual

 

Audience: Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents 

Project or Activity: BQCA trainings 

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

Inputs: BQCA Videos and Tests

Dates: 2025-2026 

 

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: Equine

Content or Curriculum: 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.

Dates: 

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

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: 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.

Dates: 

• 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: General Agricultural Short Term Programs (School Enrichment, 4-H Camp, etc.) 

Content or Curriculum: 

• Any 4-H Curriculum 
• Kentucky Ag and Environment in the Classroom, Inc. (KyAEC) https://www.teachkyag.org/ 
• Kentucky Food and Farm Facts https://www.kyfoodandfarm.info/  
• Kids Sonder: Agriculture Unboxed https://www.mommassonder.com/  
• National Ag Day https://www.agday.org/  
• National Ag and Environment in the Classroom https://agclassroom.org/ 

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.

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

Evaluation:

Outcome: Increased application of recommended horticultural practices for non-commercial production 

Indicators: 

• Number of people that implemented environmental stewardship. 
• Number of people that reduced pesticide applications. 
• Number of community members utilizing the sites and/or amount of produce donated from sites. 
• Number of trained volunteers. 
• Number of self-reported volunteer hours at community sites. 
• Number of producers who reported reduced production inputs/costs. 

Method: Interactions with clients, attendance at Extension educational events, direct observation and feedback 

Timeline: ongoing 

 

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: Medium-Term

Indicator: 

• Number of youth who reported that they have used the knowledge and skills gained in plant production to make informed decisions. 
• Number of youth who reported that they have used the knowledge and/or skills gained in plant production to complete a  project.
• Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to pursue gaining more knowledge for a job in plant production based on their interests.

Method: Survey

Timeline: Administered at end of program year/club year

Outcome: Long Term

Indicator: Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study.

Method: Survey

Timeline: End of program year or several years.

 

Outcome: Improved production practices

Indicator: 

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

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

Timeline: After program participation.

Outcome: Stakeholders have knowledge and tools needed to better protect crops from diseases and understand the benefits of adopting best disease management practices and resistance mitigation. Stakeholders are more aware of UK plant pathology research

Indicator: Number of stakeholders who reported increased knowledge of research-based disease identification and management practices for crops grown in Kentucky and/or share that information with other stakeholders.

Method: Primarily surveys, records from consultations

Timeline: Annual

Outcome: Early identification of potential disease outbreaks

Indicator: 

• Number of stakeholders contacting Extension for help with disease identification and management.
• Number of plant samples submitted to the PDDL.

Method: Sample diagnosis through the PDDL, direct communication with Extension Specialists

Timeline: Annual

 

Outcome: Improved production practices and economic return of production inputs

Indicator: Number of participants who report increased economic return from improved production practices recommended in Plant Production and Management-related Extension programs.

Method: Surveys, participant feedback, CES agent feedback

Timeline: Frequently to annual

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: Improved tobacco production practices, efficiency, and profitability

Indicator: Number of tobacco producers reporting increased economic returns, efficiency, or profitability after attending tobacco production meetings where improved production practices are presented at annual research update meetings.

Method: Surveys, views of research data published on Dark and Burley Tobacco Web pages, views of Dark Tobacco in Kentucky and Tennessee Facebook page, ANR agent feedback

Timeline: annual

Outcome: Identification of diseases and abiotic problems in crops and forages

Indicator: Number of plant diagnoses made annually with diagnosis and recommendation reports sent to ANR agent and grower.

Method: ANR agent feedback, grower feedback

Timeline: Annual

Outcome: Improved tobacco production practices, efficiency, and crop traceability

Indicator: 

• Number of tobacco producers participating in annual GAP Training.
• Number of tobacco producers reporting higher scores on annual third-party GAP Certification audits.

Method: GAP Training survey, Third-party GAP audit administered by GAP Connections, Views of research data published on Dark and Burley Tobacco Web pages, views of Dark Tobacco in Kentucky and Tennessee Facebook page

Timeline: annual

Outcome: Improved adoption of best management practices

Indicator: Number of turfgrass managers who reported that they gained knowledge of improved turfgrass management.

Method: Survey

Timeline: annual

Outcome: Improved adoption of best management practices and compliance with state regulations

Indicator: Number new applicator licenses awarded

Method: Survey and results from the KDA

Timeline: annual

Outcome: Improving forage and livestock management

Indicator: Number of participants that indicate high likelihood of implementation of improved forage and livestock management practices.

Method: Schools, workshops, conferences, and field days.  Information from these events will also be pushed out through KY Forages YouTube Channel and Master Grazer Facebook page.

Timeline: Programs are provided one or more times annually at multiple locations throughout Kentucky

Outcome: Stakeholders have knowledge and tools needed to better protect crops from weeds and understand the benefits of adopting best management practices for weed and resistance mitigation. Stakeholders are more aware of UK weed science research

Indicator: Number of stakeholders who reported increased knowledge of research-based weed identification and/or weed management practices for crops grown in Kentucky.

Method: Primarily surveys, consultations

Timeline: Annual

Outcome: Increased crop management knowledge and skills

Indicator: 

• Number of participants who increased their knowledge of risk management tools. 
• Number of participants who increased their use of risk management tools. 
• Number of participants who reported increased knowledge of plant production and/or management practices.
• Number of participants who reported reducing their inputs or costs in their plant production
• Number of participants who reported increased efficiency in their plant production and/or management

Method: Attendance and program evaluations / surveys

Timeline: Ongoing

 

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

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: Observation 

Timeline: 6 Months Post Program 

Outcome: Long-term

Indicator: Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study. 

Method: Survey

Timeline: 1+ years

 

Outcome: Increased knowledge and/or awareness of management practices to improve small ruminant production efficiency 

Indicator: Number of participants who reported an increase in knowledge and/or awareness of best practices for managing/raising small ruminants. 

Method: Survey  

Timeline: Immediately after program participation. 

 

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: Individuals gain financial management skills for small ruminant operations 

Indicator: Number of individuals that participated in small ruminant financial management programs. 

Method: Survey or records from individual consultations 

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: Increased knowledge and/or awareness of management practices to improve cattle production efficiency 

Indicator: Number of participants who reported an increase in their knowledge and/or awareness of management practices for improving cattle production efficiency. 

Method: Survey  

Timeline: At the program 

 

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: Increased Horse Management Knowledge 

Indicator: 

• Number of horse owners using Body Condition scoring to manage their horses. 
• Number of horse owners changing practices to reduce feed waste. 
• 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 understanding of the horse industry  

Indicator: 

• Number of agent-led horse programing to their county programs. 
• Number of agents supporting Pastures Please and Farm and Facility Expo in their area. 

Method: Evaluation results and/or records from individual consultations 

Timeline: ongoing 

 

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 livestock marketing knowledge 

Indicator: 

• Number of participants who report increasing their knowledge of livestock marketing. 
• Number of individuals who implemented small ruminant financial management programs.

Method: Program evaluation tools/ surveys 

Timeline: Ongoing 

 

Outcome: Increased livestock management knowledge 

Indicator: Number of livestock producers indicating increased understanding of farm management. 

Method: Program evaluation tools / surveys 

Timeline: Ongoing 

 

Outcome: Increased awareness of and use of safe/effective pesticide application methods 

Indicator: 

• Number of certified applicators earning continuing education credit. 
• Number of participants reporting an increase in knowledge on integrated pest management techniques.  
• Number of participants reporting an increase in their use of risk mitigation strategies for pesticide application.  

Method: Surveys at CEU events 

Timeline:  Ongoing

 

Outcome: Increased knowledge and awareness of management practices to improve poultry production efficiency and food safety 

Indicator: 

• Number of participants indicating an increase in knowledge and/or awareness of poultry production 
• Number of participants who demonstrated/reported improved eggs and/or poultry cooking skills.
• Number of participants who increased their knowledge of the equipment and methods used in meat processing.
• Number of participants who reported an increase in knowledge of animal harvesting and carcass fabrication skills.
• Number of participants who reported an increased knowledge of egg and/or poultry food safety practices.
• Number of participants indicating an increase in knowledge and/or awareness of poultry production.
• Number of participants reporting an increase in knowledge on integrated pest management techniques.

Method: Survey

Timeline: At the program