Jessamine County CES

County Emphasis:

Strengthening and Supporting Sustainable and Profitable Agriculture and Access to Nutritious Foods in Jessamine County.

Concentration 1:

Animal Production and Management

Concentration 2:

Food Safety, Quality, and Access

Concentration 3:

Plant Production and Management

Concentration 4:

Sustainability, Natural Resources and Wildlife Management, and Environment

Situation:

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.

County Situation:

Wendell Berry (1990), Kentucky novelist, poet, environmentalist, and farmer, stated that “…eating is an agricultural act” (p.1). Unfortunately, for many, there is a disconnect between the food we eat and where that food comes from. Today’s society lacks understanding regarding agricultural production and processing (Spielmaker and Leising, 2013). The Kentucky 4-H Youth Development Program strives to increase agricultural literacy among youth in Kentucky. The Agricultural Education in Secondary Schools Committee established by the National Research Council (1988) described an agriculturally literate person as one who’s “…understanding of the food and fiber system would include its history and its current economic, social, and environmental significance to all” (p. 8). The National Agriculture Literacy Logic Model defines an agriculturally literate person as one “…who understands and can communicate the source and value of agriculture as it affects our quality of life” (Spielmaker et al., 2014, p. 2). One of the key initiatives in Kentucky 4-H is to increase a young person’s awareness of the impact agriculture has on his/her daily life

 Much of Jessamine County contains rolling topography which is best suited to the production of livestock and forages.  With 62,414 acres in pastureland and 29,012 acres in forage production (69.3% of total cropland), Jessamine County has the potential of supporting more than the current 20,500 total head of cattle (beef and dairy) with improved pasture efficiency through more careful management and intensive grazing. Growing Forages for livestock grazing and hay production is one of Jessamine County’s most important agronomic enterprises. The Bluegrass Region, with its deep, fertile soils and gently rolling hillsides, is uniquely suited to producing some of the fastest racehorses and most productive livestock operations in the world.

 Beef cattle still play a major role, generating the majority of farm income in the county. Farmers here are also looking at alternative enterprises to generate income. Hemp has generated some interest along with goats, sheep, fruit and flower production. There are also a growing number of small vegetable producers and several organizations working with community-based gardens. Jessamine County hosts two farmers’ markets and several producers offering CSAs for direct-to-consumer sales. Land prices still remain one of the most limiting factors for individuals wanting to get into production agriculture. Farmland in Jessamine County at well over $7,000/acre. With a high level of development potential, land prices are $30,000/acre or more.

Long-Term Outcomes:

• 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. SM

• 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. SM

• Individuals and families of all incomes levels have access to affordable and nutritious foods- SH, SM

• Increase the quality of beef cattle produced annually contributing to increased and more stable financial position of cattle operations. SM

• Horse owners will be encouraged to apply best management practices for the care and management of their horses to help control cost of ownership. SM

• Increase the quality of small ruminants annually contributing to increased and more stable financial position of small ruminant operations. SM

• Forests ecosystem and economic values are enhanced, resulting?in?healthier forests, improved water quality, and increased revenue?SM

• Youth will make informed decisions regarding agricultural products and services.??CW

• Youth will advocate for agriculture and sustainable fiber and food production in their communities.?? CW

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

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

• Youth increase educational outcomes.  CW

• Youth decrease poor overall health CW

• Youth will advocate for natural resources in their communities.??CW? 

• Youth will be life and work ready, contributing to the natural resources community as consumers, leaders, and innovators.?? CW

• Youth actively adopt and apply advanced natural resources practices, demonstrating a growing commitment to the natural resources community.?CW

Intermediate Outcomes:

• Increase and/or strengthen statewide and regional partnership to address community food system issues.- SH, SM

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

• Annually implement strategies and production methods that result in increased efficiency, and number of animals produced /maintained, and animals harvested or pounds of milk produced.?SM

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

• Explore the use of emerging production technologies to achieve increased adoption of technologies for such mthings as monitoring crop productivity, crop quality, soil health and soil moisture levels across Kentucky's agricultural sectors. SM

• Increase the number of Woodland owners that participate in economic incentives programs adopting sustainable forestry, water conservation, and soil management practices. SM

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

• Youth will communicate agricultural ideas and concepts more effectively.?? CW

• Youth actively adopt and apply advanced agricultural practices, demonstrating a growing commitment to the agricultural community.??CW

• Youth will practice making wise nutrition choices.  CW

• Youth will practice food safety.  CW

• Youth will access nutritious foods. CW 

• Youth will prepare nutritious foods.  CW

• Youth will eat a variety of healthy foods daily.CW

• Youth will take responsible action in natural resources conservation.?? CW

• Youth will aspire to explore careers in natural resources and environmental sciences.?? CW

• Youth will practice skills gained from 4-H natural resources projects and clubs.??? CW

• Youth will communicate natural resources ideas and concepts more effectively. CW

Initial Outcomes:

• Increased awareness of Extension resources and programs supporting food access.- SH, SM

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

• Increased participation in Homebased Microprocessing workshops.- SH

• Increased awareness and accessibility of community resources available to access fresh foods.- SH, SM

• Increase the number of partnerships and/or coalitions involved in promoting awareness of local food systems, healthy eating, and active living (e.g. Program councils, Health Advisory Boards, etc.).- SH, SM

• Animal production and management strategies encompass but are not limited to sustainable practices, health-focused care, and economic viability across all species. Activities will include programs to address and improve specific management systems and introduce new and emerging techniques, technology, and production systems for increased efficiency and profitability.? SM

• Increase knowledge about sustainable and economically viable management practices.? 

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

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

• Increase confidence in making decisions related to promoting animal health-related behavior.? 

• Increase intentions to employ financially sound behavior regarding production methods, use of financial tools, health-focused care, and the human-animal interaction.?

• Horses are kept primarily for sport and recreation. The majority of CES clientele can be placed in one of three general categories: 1) the new or first-time owner. These owners may have recently purchased a horse or have taken over full-time care of their horse, 2) Horse owners that have experience but are looking to validate what they do to make sure they are on the right track, and 3) the long time horse owner who is looking to improve management of their horses. SM

  • Horse owners will evaluate current practices and see where changes might be of benefit. 

• New horse owners can implement the management practices that fit their needs as new horse owners.  

• Long time horse owners can see the new technologies and management practices that may benefit their horse operations.  

• Improve management skills to improve sustainability and reduce cost of ownership. 

• 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. SM

• Develop the skills and ability of Woodland owners and Ag producers to actively manage wildlife-related damage and nuisance. SM

• Youth will explore their spark in agriculture.??CW 

• Youth will gain knowledge and develop skills in agriculture.? CW

• Youth will develop a greater awareness and appreciation for the impact of agriculture in their daily life.?? CW

• Youth will learn how to make wise nutrition choices.  CW

• Youth will learn the importance of food safety.  CW

• Youth learn how to access nutritious foods.  CW

• Youth will learn how to prepare nutritious foods. CW 

• Youth will aspire to eat a variety of healthy foods daily. CW

• Youth will explore their spark in natural resources.CW??? 

• Youth will gain knowledge and develop skills in natural resources and environmental sciences.???? CW

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

• Youth will set goals to become good stewards of natural resources.?? CW

• Youth will expand life and work readiness skills, gaining awareness of the diverse opportunities within the field of natural resources.?CW

Evaluation:

Outcome	Increased awareness and accessibility of Extension resources and programs supporting food access. -SH
Indicator	Number of individuals reporting an increased awareness of how to find and prepare local food including responsible hunting/fishing/foraging.  Number of policy, systems, and/or environmental changes implemented within communities and organizations to promote active living, and healthy eating, including local food production and/or hunting/foraging and consumption (e.g. local food pantry can accept fresh foods or local game; starting/revitalizing a school or community garden; starting a walking club, etc.).  Number of individuals who reported increasing their knowledge, skills, or intentions regarding nutrition and accessing healthy foods through Extension programs and resources.  Number of individuals who were introduced to healthy food access points (e.g. farmers’ markets, CSAs, WIC, food pantries) through Extension programs or resources. -SH
Method	Pre/post participant evaluations from: NEP agent-led curricula, Food Preservation, Champion Food Volunter Leader Training; the Learning Kitchen Participant follow-up eval. TBD; # of certified Champion Food Volunteers in each county;- SH
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration; annual fiscal year (food system impact survey)- SH

Outcome	Improved skills related to safe food preparation and food preservation.- SH
Indicator	Number of individuals who reported increasing their knowledge, skills, or intentions regarding the safe storage, handling, preparation and/or preservation of food through Extension programs and resources.   Number of individuals who reported supplementing their diets with healthy foods that they grew, harvested, or preserved (e.g. community or backyard gardens, fishing, hunting).
Method	Pre/post participant evaluations from: NEP agent-led curricula, Champion Food Volunteer, Food Preservation;
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration; annual fiscal year (food system impact survey)

Outcome	Increased participation in Homebased Microprocessing workshops.- SH
Indicator	Number of farms or food businesses who retained or expanded market opportunities and/or sales including locally produced foods.  Number of individuals who?attended certificate-based training?on food safety, food preservation, food processing, liability, and/or marketing. (This includes: PBPT, Produce Safety Alliance Training, Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) training, Value Chain Coordination Services Training, Farmers Market Sampling, Home-based Microprocessing….).
Method	HBM Post-Workshop Evaluation
Timeline	Annual (calendar year)

Outcome	Increase the number of partnerships and/or coalitions involved in promoting awareness of local food systems, health eating, and active living (e.g. Program councils, Health Advisory Boards, etc.)- SH
Indicator	Number of policy, systems, and/or environmental changes implemented within communities and organizations to promote active living, and healthy eating, including local food production and/or hunting/foraging and consumption (e.g. local food pantry can accept fresh foods or local game; starting/revitalizing a school or community garden; starting a walking club, etc.).  Number of individuals who were introduced to health food access points (e.g. farmers markets, CSAs, WIC, food pantries) through Extension programs or resources.
Method	Food Systems Impact Survey, planeatmove.com website data, NEP resources distributed;
Timeline	Annual, fiscal year (Food Systems Impact Survey);

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

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 year plus

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

Outcome	Medium Term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported that they applied skills and/or knowledge to prepare healthy snacks for self or family.   Number of youth who reported that they practiced safe food handling and preparation.   Number of youth who reported that they practiced kitchen safety.  Number of youth who reported that they have used the skills   and/or knowledge gained to complete a Family Consumer Sciences Project.
Method	Standard Evaluation Tool for Family Consumer Sciences: Survey
Timeline	End of the program year

Outcome	Long Term
Indicator	Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study.
Method	Standard Evaluation Tool for Family Consumer Sciences: Survey
Timeline	1 or more years

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

Outcome	Medium
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 at end of program year/club year

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

Learning Opportunities:

Audience	Beef Cattle Producers
Project or Activity	BQCA Certification Training/KY Beef Conference
Content or Curriculum	Cattle Handling, Production and Marketing
Inputs	U.K. Beef Specialists and KBN resources
Date(s)	Fall/Winter

Audience	Equine Producers
Project or Activity	Forage and Facilities Expo/Pastures Please!
Content or Curriculum	Equine technologies, equipment and forage production
Inputs	U.K. Forage and Equine Specialists
Date(s)	Spring/Summer

Audience	Individuals & Farmers- SH
Project or Activity	Nutrition Education- SH
Content or Curriculum	Nutrition Education Program, SNAP-Ed toolkit, Publications, Faithful Families, Cook Together Eat Together, Savor the Flavor, Dining with Diabetes, Plate it up! Kentucky Proud, Food as Health Toolkit, Family Mealtime, maternal and child health program materials, www.planeatmove.com, Super Star Chef, Farm to School, Hunger in Kentucky- SH
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, community partners, volunteers, faith-based organizations, health coalitions, healthcare Providers and local clinics, health department, non-profits, schools, company health & wellness, 4-H, Homemakers, farmers’ markets, local farmers/growers/producers, commodity groups, community centers, etc.- SH
Date(s)	Ongoing-SH

Audience	Individuals & Farmers- SH
Project or Activity	Home Based Micro Processing- SH
Content or Curriculum	HBMP Training materials- SH
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, facilities, health department, State of Kentucky, KDA, non-profits, schools, faith-based organizations, Homemakers, community centers, farmers, farmers’ markets, etc.- SH
Date(s)	Ongoing-SH

Audience	Communities-SH
Project or Activity	Farmers’ Market Toolkit- SH
Content or Curriculum	Farmers’ Market Toolkit- SH
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, facilities, health department, non-profits, schools, faith-based organizations, Homemakers, community centers, farmers, farmers’ markets, etc.- SH
Date(s)	Ongoing- SH

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	Kentucky 4-H Dairy Program
Content or Curriculum	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).? ?  Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.?  Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.?  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.??
Date(s)	Sept. 1-Aug 30 each year

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	Kentucky 4-H Dog Program
Content or Curriculum	Kentucky Dog Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Ohio State University (OSU) Dog Resource Handbook, Ohio State University (OSU) Dog Project and Record Book, Ohio State University (OSU) Dog Learning Lab Kit, National 4-H Dog Curriculum Levels 1-3 and Helper’s Guide, American Kennel Club Website, Kentucky 4-H Dog Program Rule Book, Kentucky 4-H Dog Program Overview
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).? ?  Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.?  Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.?  Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.?  Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.?  Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.??  External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.?
Date(s)	Kentucky 4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31)  Kentucky 4-H Dog Skillathon (offered each August)  Kentucky 4-H Dog Show (offered each August)  Kentucky 4-H Dog Bowl (offered each August)

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).? ?  Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.?  Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.?  Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.?  Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.?  Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.??  External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.?
Date(s)	Kentucky 4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31)  Kentucky 4-H Horse Contest (offered June each year)  Kentucky 4-H Horse Show (offered August each year)

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

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	4-H Clubwork (Livestock, Dairy, Horse, Poultry, Rabbit, Dog, and Vet Science)
Content or Curriculum	Livestock: Kentucky Animal Science Livestock Discovery Website, Kentucky Livestock Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Ohio State University (OSU) Livestock Resource Handbook, Ohio State University (OSU) Livestock Project and Record Book, Ohio State University (OSU) Learning Lab Kits, National 4-H Project Books and Helper’s Guide, Kentucky 4-H Livestock Program Overview, Kentucky 4-H Livestock Rules and Guidelines  Dairy: 4-H Livestock Discovery, Kentucky Livestock Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Holstein Foundation Study Questions  Horse: Ohio State University (OSU) Horse Learning Lab Kit, Kentucky Horse Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Horse Reference Manual (Alberta 4-H), 4-H Horse Academy, Kentucky 4-H Horse Website  Poultry: Kentucky 4-H Avian Bowl Manual, National 4-H Poultry Judging Manual published by Nebraska Cooperative Extension Service, Evaluating Egg Laying Hens (University of Kentucky), Standards for Scoring Placing Classes (University of Kentucky), Kentucky 4-H Poultry: Giving Oral Reasons (University of Kentucky), Notesheet for Poultry Reasons (University of Kentucky), Criteria for Evaluating Oral Reasons (University of Kentucky), Kentucky 4-H Poultry: Grading RTC Poultry (University of Kentucky), Kentucky 4-H Poultry: Grading Eggs (University of Kentucky), Examples of Different Grades of Broken Out Eggs (University of Kentucky), The Egg and I, Chick Incubation  Rabbit: Ohio State University (OSU) Rabbit Resource Handbook, Ohio State University (OSU) Rabbit Project Record Book, Ohio State University (OSU) Rabbit Learning Lab Kit, National 4-H Rabbit Curriculum Levels 1-3 and Helper’s Guide, American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) Standard of Perfection, Kentucky 4-H Rabbit Program Guide and Rule Book, 4-H Rabbit Program Overview  Dog: Kentucky Dog Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Ohio State University (OSU) Dog Resource Handbook, Ohio State University (OSU) Dog Project and Record Book, Ohio State University (OSU) Dog Learning Lab Kit, National 4-H Dog Curriculum Levels 1-3 and Helper’s Guide, American Kennel Club Website, Kentucky 4-H Dog Program Rule Book, Kentucky 4-H Dog Program Overview
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).? ?  Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.?  Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.?  Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.?  Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.?  Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.??  External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.?
Date(s)	Kentucky 4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31)

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).? ?  Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.?  Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.?  Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.?  Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.?  Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.??  External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.?
Date(s)	4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31)  Kentucky 4-H Country Ham Contest (offered Kentucky State Fair - August each year)

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	Nutrition and Food Preparation
Content or Curriculum	4-H Cooking: 101, 201, 301, 401; International Foods, Passport Kitchen, Global Table
Inputs	4-H Family and Consumer Sciences programs in which youth experience a sense of belonging, and developmental relationships, explore their spark, and actively engage in meaningful opportunities.   Accredited and certified volunteers in 4-H FCS projects.  Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association   Four residential camping facilities.   Cooperative Extension Educational facilities.   Utilization of approved research-based curriculum.  Outreach of the Cooperative Extension Land-Grant System.   Funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.   Funding from local, state, and federal sources.   Engagement of youth and volunteers in program delivery.  Engaging communities in identifying and implementing programming based on local needs
Date(s)	Kentucky 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.?? Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.?? Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.?? Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.??? External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.
Date(s)	4-H Program Year (September 1 – August 31)

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	4-H Natural Resources Projects?(e.g., insect collections, leaf collections, leaf print collections, wood science projects, rock, mineral, and/or fossil collections)
Content or Curriculum	4-H Natural Resources Projects?(e.g., insect collections, leaf collections, leaf print collections, wood science projects, rock, mineral, and/or fossil collections)
Inputs	4-H programs in natural resources in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful to them.???  Accredited volunteers in natural resources.???  Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.???  Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.???  Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.???  Engagement of staff, volunteers and youth in delivering the program
Date(s)	4-H Program Year (September 1 – August 31)

Audience	Youth
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)?

Evaluation:

Outcome	Increased awareness and accessibility of Extension resources and programs supporting food access. -SH
Indicator	Number of individuals reporting an increased awareness of how to find and prepare local food including responsible hunting/fishing/foraging.  Number of policy, systems, and/or environmental changes implemented within communities and organizations to promote active living, and healthy eating, including local food production and/or hunting/foraging and consumption (e.g. local food pantry can accept fresh foods or local game; starting/revitalizing a school or community garden; starting a walking club, etc.).  Number of individuals who reported increasing their knowledge, skills, or intentions regarding nutrition and accessing healthy foods through Extension programs and resources.  Number of individuals who were introduced to healthy food access points (e.g. farmers’ markets, CSAs, WIC, food pantries) through Extension programs or resources. -SH
Method	Pre/post participant evaluations from: NEP agent-led curricula, Food Preservation, Champion Food Volunter Leader Training; the Learning Kitchen Participant follow-up eval. TBD; # of certified Champion Food Volunteers in each county;- SH
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration; annual fiscal year (food system impact survey)- SH

Outcome	Improved skills related to safe food preparation and food preservation.- SH
Indicator	Number of individuals who reported increasing their knowledge, skills, or intentions regarding the safe storage, handling, preparation and/or preservation of food through Extension programs and resources.   Number of individuals who reported supplementing their diets with healthy foods that they grew, harvested, or preserved (e.g. community or backyard gardens, fishing, hunting).
Method	Pre/post participant evaluations from: NEP agent-led curricula, Champion Food Volunteer, Food Preservation;
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration; annual fiscal year (food system impact survey)

Outcome	Increased participation in Homebased Microprocessing workshops.- SH
Indicator	Number of farms or food businesses who retained or expanded market opportunities and/or sales including locally produced foods.  Number of individuals who?attended certificate-based training?on food safety, food preservation, food processing, liability, and/or marketing. (This includes: PBPT, Produce Safety Alliance Training, Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) training, Value Chain Coordination Services Training, Farmers Market Sampling, Home-based Microprocessing….).
Method	HBM Post-Workshop Evaluation
Timeline	Annual (calendar year)

Outcome	Increase the number of partnerships and/or coalitions involved in promoting awareness of local food systems, health eating, and active living (e.g. Program councils, Health Advisory Boards, etc.)- SH
Indicator	Number of policy, systems, and/or environmental changes implemented within communities and organizations to promote active living, and healthy eating, including local food production and/or hunting/foraging and consumption (e.g. local food pantry can accept fresh foods or local game; starting/revitalizing a school or community garden; starting a walking club, etc.).  Number of individuals who were introduced to health food access points (e.g. farmers markets, CSAs, WIC, food pantries) through Extension programs or resources.
Method	Food Systems Impact Survey, planeatmove.com website data, NEP resources distributed;
Timeline	Annual, fiscal year (Food Systems Impact Survey);

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

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 year plus

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

Outcome	Medium Term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported that they applied skills and/or knowledge to prepare healthy snacks for self or family.   Number of youth who reported that they practiced safe food handling and preparation.   Number of youth who reported that they practiced kitchen safety.  Number of youth who reported that they have used the skills   and/or knowledge gained to complete a Family Consumer Sciences Project.
Method	Standard Evaluation Tool for Family Consumer Sciences: Survey
Timeline	End of the program year

Outcome	Long Term
Indicator	Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study.
Method	Standard Evaluation Tool for Family Consumer Sciences: Survey
Timeline	1 or more years

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

Outcome	Medium
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 at end of program year/club year

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