Woodford County CES

County Emphasis:

Sustainable Agriculture

Concentration 1:

Sustainability, Natural Resources and Wildlife Management, and Environment

Concentration 2:

Plant Production and Management

Concentration 3:

Plant Production and Management

Situation:

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’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. 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.

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. 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 various 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. 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 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. 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. 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:

According to the most recent community assessment, Woodford County placed farm preservation and sustainability as its highest priority.   Specifically, preserving/managing agricultural land and the sustainability of family farms tied for the top needs.   Close seconds were supporting/strengthening our local food/agriculture industry as well as providing increased marketing opportunities for producers. Other highly important needs for the county include issues affecting crops, production/profitability, and access to high-speed internet.  With 93% of the total county land still being considered farm land, the desired sustainability and preservation of land is no surprise.  Our diverse array of agricultural operations in the county allows community members to see all facets of the agricultural industry.  Woodford County is ripe with horses, cattle, small livestock, grain crops, fruit production, vegetable and ornamental production, and still to this day tobacco is produced in the county. There are just as many smaller farms (<50 acres) as there are large farms in the county.  With the diversity of agriculture comes a unique need for programming across many different types and styles of operations, but all the while keeping in mind the communities desire to be sustainable.

Long-Term Outcomes:

1. 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).
2. The sustainability of agricultural and forestry operations is increased and opportunities for further growth are improved.
3. Youth will be life and work ready, contributing to the natural resources community as consumers, leaders, and innovators. 
4. Youth actively adopt and apply advanced natural resources practices, demonstrating a growing commitment to the natural resources community.
5. 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. 
6. Strengthen local economies through improved farm sustainability and profitability, which are economic multipliers in local communities. Helping farm families successfully transition to subsequent generations. Helping new and beginning farmers enter farming operations.  
7. Strengthen local economies through the continuous support of farmer’s markets, community gardens, and community-supported agriculture programs that are well-integrated with urban horticulture initiatives. 
8. Develop and implement a comprehensive framework for disaster readiness and climate adaptation that includes advanced forecasting, crop selection, and management practices to prepare for extreme weather events.
9. Improved crop sustainability, increased farm profitability and reduced environmental impact using best disease management practices 
10. Reduced unnecessary pesticide exposure to farmers, agribusiness and the general public 
11. Increased farm productivity because of a reduction in yield and quality losses due to diseases 
12. Achieve long-term sustainability and resilience in agricultural practices through the widespread adoption of practices that enhance soil productivity, conserve water quality and quantity, and optimize resource use, leading to resilient agricultural systems capable of withstanding economic and environmental fluctuations.
13. Work with farmers and those interested in farming on generational succession in farms to improve sustainability of the farms for generations. 
14. Develop and implement a comprehensive framework for disaster readiness and climate adaptation that includes advanced forecasting, crop selection, and management practices to prepare for extreme weather events.
15. Youth will make informed decisions regarding agricultural products and services.
16. Youth will be life and work ready, contributing to the agricultural community as consumers, leaders, and innovators.
17. Increase the use of sustainable management practices across all production methods and species.
18. Producers are routinely implementing guidelines and recommendations for efficient and financially sound production demonstrating sustainable behavior change.
19. Continually implementing new technology and production practices.
20. Increase the quality of beef cattle produced annually contributing to increased and more stable financial position of cattle operations. 
21. Producers are routinely following Beef Quality Care & Assurance standards to produce healthy and high-quality beef. 
22. Increase the use of sustainable management practices by horse owners. 
23. Youth will make informed decisions regarding agricultural products and services.
24. Youth will be life and work ready, contributing to the agricultural community as consumers, leaders, and innovators.

Intermediate Outcomes:

1. Youth will take responsible action in natural resources conservation.
2. Youth will practice skills gained from 4-H natural resources projects and clubs.
3. Youth will communicate natural resources ideas and concepts more effectively.
4. 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. 
5. 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. 
6. Adoption of improved pesticide safety practices
7. Increased adoption of effective crop protection (i.e. IPM) methods by stakeholders to manage diseases 
8. Increased number of stakeholders who scout for diseases, monitor disease risk factors, and use research-based information 
9. Early identification of potential disease outbreaks and awareness of disease trends 
10. Judicious use of pesticide-based disease management
11. Expansion of Extension programming by broadening the scope of extension services to include more comprehensive support for grain crops, forages, tobacco, hemp, and turfgrass suited to Kentucky's changing climate and soil conditions. 
12. Adoption of improved pesticide application practices.   Improve understanding and compliance with state pesticide applicator regulations. 
13. Youth will practice skills gained from 4-H agricultural projects and clubs.
14. Youth actively adopt and apply advanced agricultural practices, demonstrating a growing commitment to the agricultural community.
15. Increase or strengthen partnerships or relationships with commodity groups to address sustainable management strategies, health-focused care, and economic viability for all livestock.
16. Youth will practice skills gained from 4-H agricultural projects and clubs.
17. Youth will communicate agricultural ideas and concepts more effectively.

Initial Outcomes:

1. Increase knowledge and skills of individuals in both urban and rural settings to address immediate wildlife-related challenges and enhance biodiversity.  
2. Youth will explore their spark in natural resources.
3. Youth will understand how their actions and choices impact natural resources and the environment.
4. Youth will set goals to become good stewards of natural resources.
5. Youth will expand life and work readiness skills, gaining awareness of the diverse opportunities within the field of natural resources.
6. 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. 
7. Enhanced soil and water management programs by rolling out targeted extension programs that focus on soil health and water management techniques to immediately improve crop yield potentials. 
8. Support for crop trials by initiating pilot projects that support the planting of diverse crops and horticultural species, such as vegetables, small fruit, tree fruit, herbs, and ornamental plants to assess short-term viability and consumer interest. 
9. Initial and continuing education opportunities for certified pesticide applicators
10. 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 
11. Stakeholders are more aware of current and new and/or emerging disease issues 
12. Stakeholders have access to timely diagnostics to avoid or reduce the impact of disease outbreaks 
13. Stakeholders are more aware of UK plant pathology research and resources
14. Increase adoption of data-driven practices through immediate trainings, workshops, and field visits to educate producers on the latest data-driven agricultural technologies, focusing on efficient resource utilization, pest resistance, sustainability, and yield improvements. 
15. Enhanced soil and water management programs by rolling out targeted extension programs that focus on soil and water management techniques to immediately improve crop yield potentials and promote environmentally favorable practices. 
16. Support for diverse crop trials by initiating pilot projects that support the planting of diverse crops. 
17. Fulfillment of annual GAP Training requirements for GAP Certification of tobacco producers.
18. Youth will gain knowledge and develop skills in agriculture.
19. Youth will develop a greater awareness and appreciation for the impact of agriculture in their daily life.
20. Youth will expand life and work readiness skills in agriculture, gaining awareness of the diverse opportunities within the field of agriculture.
21.  Increase knowledge about sustainable and economically viable management practices.
22. Increase skills related to efficient production methods across all species.
23. Increase confidence in implementing new and emerging techniques, technology, and production systems.
24. Increase confidence in making decisions related to promoting animal health-related behavior.
25. Increase intentions to employ financially sound behavior regarding production methods, use of financial tools, health-focused care, and the human-animal interaction.
26. Youth will gain knowledge and develop skills in agriculture.
27. Youth will develop a greater awareness and appreciation for the impact of agriculture in their daily life.
28. Youth will expand life and work readiness skills in agriculture, gaining awareness of the diverse opportunities within the field of agriculture.

Evaluation:

Outcome	Increased management to address resources concerns
Indicator	Number of participants who reported that they developed new management plans.  Number of participants who reported an increase in the acres managed.  Number of participants (or state agencies) who reported that they implemented wildlife damage management practices
Method	Follow-up Survey (Survey previous participants) and tracking number of management plans implemented by state agencies
Timeline	Annually

 

Outcome	Increased understanding of invasive arthropod identification
Indicator	Number of learners that report knowledge gain in identification skills  Number of attendees that report knowledge gain in differentiating native and non-native arthropods (and close relatives)
Method	In person survey
Timeline	Immediately following Extension event

 

Outcome	Greater understanding of reporting invasive species to appropriate agencies
Indicator	Number of people self-reporting knowledge gain on how to properly report a sighting of an invasive insect, arachnid, or mollusk  Number of people reporting behavioral changes in reporting and in support of invasive species monitoring methods
Method	In person survey and year later survey
Timeline	In person surveys at Extension event and digital surveys distributed one year later

 

Outcome	Increased awareness of and use of safe/effective pesticide application methods
Indicator	Number of certified applicators attending continuing education credit Extension events (both private and commercial)  Number of people self-reporting knowledge gain on integrated pest management techniques   Number of people self-reporting behavioral changes regarding risk mitigation strategies for pesticide application
Method	Surveys at CEU events
Timeline

 

 

 

Outcome	Short (Youth)
Indicator	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 (Youth)
Indicator	Number of youth who reported that have applied the skills they learned in natural resources to other areas of their life, including at home, school and other programs.   Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to conserve natural resources.   Number of youth who reported that they have used their skills and/or knowledge gained to complete a natural resources project.
Method	Survey
Timeline	Administered Immediately following program/activity

 

Outcome	Long (Youth)
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	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	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 marketing knowledge
Indicator
Method	Program attendance and evaluations / surveys
Timeline	Ongoing

 

Outcome	Increased crop management knowledge and skills?
Indicator	Number of participants that increased their knowledge changed, cost reduction, and increased efficiency.
Method	Attendance and program evaluations / surveys
Timeline	Ongoing

 

Outcome
Indicator	Number of home or community gardeners who reported that they implemented environmental stewardship (pollinator gardens, rain catchment, etc.) Number of non-commercial growers who reported adoption of improved management practices (soil sampling, reduced pesticide applications, integrated pest management, etc.) Number of community members using or participating in public or community gardens Amount of produce donated from community gardens
Method
Timeline

 

Outcome
Indicator	Number of commercial growers who reported improved specialty crop production and/or management practices. Number of non-commercial home gardeners who reported improved planting and/or management practices.
Method
Timeline

 

Outcome
Indicator	Number of Master Gardener volunteers who completed training Number of Master Gardener volunteer service hours Number of clients engaged by Master Gardeners Number of programs led by Master Gardeners
Method
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 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	Increased livestock management knowledge
Indicator	Number of livestock producers indicating increased understanding of farm management.
Method	Program evaluation tools / 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.
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
Timeline

 

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

 

Learning Opportunities:

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)	Ongoing

 

Audience	General public
Project or Activity	Pest and disease identification
Content or Curriculum	Clinical diagnoses and trainings
Inputs	Diagnostic labs and services
Date(s)	Ongoing

 

Audience	4-H Members
Project or Activity	4-H Natural Resources Programs (e.g., 4-H Forestry Field Days, 4-H Senior 4-H Forestry Judging Contest, 4-H Wildlife Challenge)
Content or Curriculum	Forestry, Wildlife, Entomology, Water; Curriculum - National and State-Level Research-Based, Vetted Publications, Curricula, and Educational Resources?
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.
Date(s)	4-H Program Year (September 1 – August 31)

 

Audience	4-H Members
Project or Activity	4-H Shooting Sports Program
Content or Curriculum	National 4-H Shooting Sports Training Curriculum
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 4-H Shooting Sports.???  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	Grain Crops 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
Date(s)

 

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)

 

Audience	Agricultural producers
Project or Activity	IPM Programs
Content or Curriculum	Educational materials and program delivery
Inputs	EIP Grant, UK Specialists, commodity grants
Date(s)

 

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(s)

 

Audience	Specialty crop growers
Project or Activity	Programming for specialty crop production and management
Content or Curriculum	Publications, Fact Sheets, Workshops, Field Days, County Meetings, Regional Meetings, Field Visits, emails and phone calls
Inputs	Extension Specialists, Kentucky Horticulture Council, USDA funding, Dept of Labor funding, county agents, KDA, professional member organizations
Date(s)

 

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, Kentucky Extension Master Gardener Progam
Date(s)

 

Audience	Agricultural stakeholders (farmers, certified crop advisors, industry, others)
Project or Activity	Identification and management of diseases that affect grain, forage crops and tobacco. Grain crops include corn, sorghum, soybean, small grains, canola.
Content or Curriculum	Publications, Live and virtual trainings, online videos, workshops, field days, county meetings, regional and national meetings, field visits, emails and phone calls
Inputs	UK Plant Pathology Extension Specialists, research and extension funding
Date(s)	Annual

 

Audience	Agricultural stakeholders (producers, industry, others)
Project or Activity	Disease identification and management of horticulture and specialty crops. Crops include tree and berry fruits, hemp, field and high tunnel vegetables, greenhouse floriculture, landscapes and urban forests, and home horticulture
Content or Curriculum	Publications, Live and virtual trainings, online videos, workshops, field days, county meetings, regional and national meetings, field visits, emails and phone calls
Inputs	UK Plant Pathology Extension Specialists, research and extension funding
Date(s)	Annual

 

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(s)	Frequently to annual

 

Audience	Grain crop producers
Project or Activity	Grain Crops Management, including Corn, Soybean, Wheat, Barley, Rye, Canola and others
Content or Curriculum	Plant & Soil Science Grain crops specialists and other UK extension specialists with grain crops responsibilities.
Inputs	Plant & Soil Science Grain crops specialists and other UK extension specialists with grain crops responsibilities.
Date(s)	Annual, Frequent

 

Audience	Tobacco growers
Project or Activity	Tobacco production and research update meetings, field days, phone calls, and other consultations.
Content or Curriculum	Program delivery, educational materials
Inputs	UK tobacco specialists
Date(s)	annual

 

Audience	Agricultural producers and the public
Project or Activity	Pest and disease identification
Content or Curriculum	Clinical diagnoses and trainings
Inputs	PSS extension specialists assistance to diagnostic labs diagnostic services
Date(s)	Frequently throughout the year

 

Audience	Tobacco growers
Project or Activity	Annual Tobacco Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) Training
Content or Curriculum	Educational materials (live trainings, virtual trainings, online video modules, supporting publications), program delivery
Inputs	UK Tobacco specialists, GAP Connections (administrator of GAP program), tobacco dealers and manufacturers
Date(s)	Annual (25 per year)

 

Audience	Agricultural stakeholders (farmers, certified crop advisors, industry, others)
Project or Activity	Weed identification and management of grain and forage crops. Grain crops include corn, sorghum, soybean, small grains, and canola.
Content or Curriculum	Publications, Live and virtual trainings, online videos, workshops, field days, county meetings, regional and national meetings, field visits, emails and phone calls
Inputs	UK Weed Science Extension Specialists, research and extension funding
Date(s)	Annual

 

 

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
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. Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.??
Date(s)	4-H Program Year (September 1 – August 31)

 

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.??  Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.
Date(s)	4-H Program Year (September 1 – August 31)

 

Audience	Agents
Project or Activity	In-service updates / trainings
Content or Curriculum	Online series, in-person trainings developed as needed
Inputs	Coordination by IRM coordinators and Specialists
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	Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents
Project or Activity	Master Cattleman
Content or Curriculum	Master Cattleman curriculum
Inputs	Coordination with Beef IRM coordinators & specialists
Date(s)	TBD

 

Audience	Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents
Project or Activity	Freezer Beef Short Course
Content or Curriculum
Inputs
Date(s)

 

Audience	Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents
Project or Activity	Beef Bash
Content or Curriculum
Inputs
Date(s)

 

Audience	Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents
Project or Activity	Artificial Insemination School
Content or Curriculum
Inputs	UK beef facilities, local facilities and cattle, coordination with Beef IRM coordinator and Dr. Anderson
Date(s)

 

Audience	Ag and Natural Resource Agents
Project or Activity	First Friday Equine Industry Update
Content or Curriculum	Educational materials and program delivery
Inputs	UK Specialists
Date(s)	First Friday January – June, September - December

 

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)	TBD

 

Audience	Adult Horse Owners
Project or Activity	Horses and Horsemen /Farm and Facility Expo
Content or Curriculum	Farm related management practices
Inputs	Extension Horse Specialist, ANR Agents and industry support
Date(s)	TBD

 

Audience	Livestock stakeholders (producers, lenders, government agencies, etc.)
Project or Activity	Management / profitability related programming
Content or Curriculum	Managing cost of production and risk, long term decision making, production efficiency, etc.
Inputs	Extension faculty and staff, ANR Agents and industry support
Date(s)

 

 

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	Equine
Content or Curriculum	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).
Date(s)

 

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	Kentucky 4-H Livestock Program
Content or Curriculum	Kentucky Animal Science Livestock Discovery Website, Kentucky Livestock Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Livestock Resource Handbook, Livestock Project and Record Book, Learning Lab Kits, National 4-H Project Books and Helper’s Guide
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. Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.
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 Clubwork (Livestock)
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
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.
Date(s)	4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31)

 

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, 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. Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.
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	General Agricultural Short Term Programs (School Enrichment, 4-H Camp, etc.)
Content or Curriculum	Kentucky Food and Farm Facts https://www.kyfoodandfarm.info/   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. Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants. Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.
Date(s)	4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31)

 

Evaluation:

Outcome	Increased management to address resources concerns
Indicator	Number of participants who reported that they developed new management plans.  Number of participants who reported an increase in the acres managed.  Number of participants (or state agencies) who reported that they implemented wildlife damage management practices
Method	Follow-up Survey (Survey previous participants) and tracking number of management plans implemented by state agencies
Timeline	Annually

 

Outcome	Increased understanding of invasive arthropod identification
Indicator	Number of learners that report knowledge gain in identification skills  Number of attendees that report knowledge gain in differentiating native and non-native arthropods (and close relatives)
Method	In person survey
Timeline	Immediately following Extension event

 

Outcome	Greater understanding of reporting invasive species to appropriate agencies
Indicator	Number of people self-reporting knowledge gain on how to properly report a sighting of an invasive insect, arachnid, or mollusk  Number of people reporting behavioral changes in reporting and in support of invasive species monitoring methods
Method	In person survey and year later survey
Timeline	In person surveys at Extension event and digital surveys distributed one year later

 

Outcome	Increased awareness of and use of safe/effective pesticide application methods
Indicator	Number of certified applicators attending continuing education credit Extension events (both private and commercial)  Number of people self-reporting knowledge gain on integrated pest management techniques   Number of people self-reporting behavioral changes regarding risk mitigation strategies for pesticide application
Method	Surveys at CEU events
Timeline

 

 

 

Outcome	Short (Youth)
Indicator	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 (Youth)
Indicator	Number of youth who reported that have applied the skills they learned in natural resources to other areas of their life, including at home, school and other programs.   Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to conserve natural resources.   Number of youth who reported that they have used their skills and/or knowledge gained to complete a natural resources project.
Method	Survey
Timeline	Administered Immediately following program/activity

 

Outcome	Long (Youth)
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	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	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 marketing knowledge
Indicator
Method	Program attendance and evaluations / surveys
Timeline	Ongoing

 

Outcome	Increased crop management knowledge and skills?
Indicator	Number of participants that increased their knowledge changed, cost reduction, and increased efficiency.
Method	Attendance and program evaluations / surveys
Timeline	Ongoing

 

Outcome
Indicator	Number of home or community gardeners who reported that they implemented environmental stewardship (pollinator gardens, rain catchment, etc.) Number of non-commercial growers who reported adoption of improved management practices (soil sampling, reduced pesticide applications, integrated pest management, etc.) Number of community members using or participating in public or community gardens Amount of produce donated from community gardens
Method
Timeline

 

Outcome
Indicator	Number of commercial growers who reported improved specialty crop production and/or management practices. Number of non-commercial home gardeners who reported improved planting and/or management practices.
Method
Timeline

 

Outcome
Indicator	Number of Master Gardener volunteers who completed training Number of Master Gardener volunteer service hours Number of clients engaged by Master Gardeners Number of programs led by Master Gardeners
Method
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 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	Increased livestock management knowledge
Indicator	Number of livestock producers indicating increased understanding of farm management.
Method	Program evaluation tools / 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.
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
Timeline

 

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