McCreary County CES

County Emphasis:

Food for All: Health, Security, and Sustainability

Concentration 1:

Food Safety, Quality, and Access

Concentration 2:

Plant Production and Management

Concentration 3:

Health and Wellbeing

Concentration 4:

Connected & Resilient Communities

Situation:

Food Safety, Quality, and Access:

It is proven that people who have access to and consume their daily dietary requirements of fresh fruits and vegetables are less likely to suffer from chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease and have an increased quality of life. Having the knowledge and skills to prepare or preserve fresh fruits and vegetables presents an additional barrier beyond obtaining fresh food access.

With the goal of increasing the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service (CES) aims to increase access to fresh food, as well as increase knowledge and awareness of how to select, store, safely prepare, process, and preserve these foods. CES prioritizes statewide partnership development that helps us meet our goals and objectives. We collaborate with statewide agencies including Kentucky Department of Agriculture, Community Farm Alliance, KY Farm to School Network, Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife and others to help build statewide systems that increase access and usage of fresh fruits and vegetables. These programs benefit Kentuckians because they support food access policy, systems and environmental changes in communities and across the state. They increase knowledge of how to grow, prepare, and preserve fresh fruits and vegetables.

Youth Focus

Kentucky faces significant health and economic challenges, with five of the top ten causes of death being nutrition-related. According to the Obesity Action Coalition the cost of obesity reached $36.31 billion. The rapidly changing social and economic landscape underscores the need for a healthy, productive, and engaged young people to contribute to a prepared workforce and engaged community to tackle these challenges. The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension System's 2023 Community Needs Assessment identifies critical priorities, including access to affordable nutritious food, reducing youth obesity through improved nutrition and exercise, and enhancing youth wellbeing through effective coping strategies. Kentucky 4-H plays a crucial role in addressing these needs by equipping young people with essential skills in nutrition, culinary arts, financial education, and entrepreneurship. 69% of youth reported that they learned about healthy food choices in 4-H. 4-H youth report an increase in preparing meals together as a family, increase in meals eaten as a family, and confidence in the kitchen. These programs not only foster healthier, more resilient individuals, but also contribute to the development of engaged citizens prepared to navigate and thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

Plant Production and Management: 

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.

Producers use data-driven approaches for efficient resource utilization while exploring new crop varieties for pest resistance and yield improvement. As technology advances, producers will need to adopt remote sensing technologies to monitor soil health, moisture, and other parameters to increase efficiency. 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 diverse 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.

Youth Focus

Educating youth about plant production and soil science is crucial for the future of agriculture, empowering them to innovate and address current and future agricultural challenges. The National 4-H Council’s 2024 Index Survey revealed that 83% of youth enjoy science, 66% view it as a tool for problem-solving, and 62% are interested in science-related careers. The 2022 U.S. Census of Agriculture highlights trends in Kentucky, such as a decrease in the number of farms, reduced agricultural land, an aging producer population, and larger farm sizes. Key priority issues identified by the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension System Community Needs Assessment (2023) include youth life skill training opportunities, youth workforce readiness, access to affordable, nutritious food, support for the local agriculture industry, and promoting youth agriculture literacy. 4-H projects in plant production and soil science can help young people develop life skills, learn responsibility, and gain knowledge about these fields through horticulture, plant science, and soil science projects and programs.

Health and Wellbeing:

The opportunities and resources available to support the health and well-being of adults and families in Kentucky vary widely. Disparities in health-promoting knowledge, resources, and infrastructure contribute to higher rates of chronic health conditions and lower quality of life. Prevention, early detection, and care are essential to maintain and/or improve quality of life. Yet, this burden is often placed on individuals to navigate the

healthcare system and traditional public health entities. Additionally, for decades, little attention has been given to the external factors that undoubtedly affect health such as access to care, education, nutritious foods, and safe physical spaces. These same issues and concerns were echoed throughout the 2023 UK Cooperative Extension Community Assessment. Within the top 15 priority issues identified by Kentuckians, “ensuring individuals and families have access to affordable nutritious foods” was #4 and “reducing youth obesity through nutrition education and/or exercise” was #8. Guided by the Cooperative Extension’s National Framework for Health Equity and Well-being, UK Extension aims to become a critical public health partner for addressing disparities in health-promoting knowledge, resources, and infrastructure through comprehensive health, nutrition, and wellness programming that supports adult physical health and well-being.

Youth Focus

Thriving youth are healthy, productive, and engaged (Arnold, 2024). According to Kentucky Kids Count Database (AECF, 2023) 41% of Kentucky teenagers are obese or overweight. Youth are also experiencing alarming levels of negativity about themselves, their confidence in the future, and their ability to find contentment in life (McKinsey & Company, 2022). 30% of youth are chronically absent (United States Department of Education, 2024). The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service Needs Assessment (2024) identified key priorities issues related to health and wellbeing as need for improved access to mental health and wellbeing resources, reducing youth obesity through nutrition education and/or exercise, minimizing bullying and/or school violence. To address these issues, Kentucky 4-H creates opportunities for youth in the five domains of physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and intellectual health and well-being.

Connection and Resilient Communities: 

Kentucky’s communities face unique challenges that require enhancing connectivity and resilience through digital access, social cohesion, and well-designed public spaces. Broadband access remains critical, particularly in rural areas where digital connectivity gaps hinder economic and educational opportunities. The 2023 Community Needs Assessment identified improved broadband and digital literacy as top priorities for enhancing community resilience.

Extension’s connectivity and resilience efforts focus on supporting local economies and helping communities recover from economic shifts and natural disasters (CEDIK, 2024). By promoting digital literacy, educating on safe and vibrant outdoor spaces, and implementing place-based disaster preparedness programs, Extension strengthens community connections and economic sustainability. These initiatives benefit residents, businesses, and local governments, fostering stronger, more resilient communities equipped to face future challenges.

Youth Focus

In today’s rapidly evolving world, youth are and can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of connected and resilient communities. Young people are leveraging technology and social networks to foster strong, supportive relationships that transcend geographical boundaries. They are actively engaged in community-building activities, promoting access to opportunity, and driving change. By participating in local and global initiatives, they are not only enhancing their own resilience but also contributing to the overall strength and adaptability of their communities. Their innovative approaches to problem-solving and their commitment to sustainability are essential in addressing the complex challenges of the 21st century. As they continue to collaborate and share knowledge, youth are laying the foundation for a more connected and resilient world. 4-H is committed to providing the resources necessary to promote youth connection in their communities. Thriving youth are healthy, productive, and engaged (Arnold, 2024). Communities that promote the indicators of youth thriving will have more connected, capable, and committed citizens that can critically think through addressing the needs and priorities of their community.

County Situation:

McCreary County faces significant health and food security challenges. The county's food insecurity rate stands at 30.7%, among the highest in the state, and the obesity rate is 44.4%, surpassing the national average of 37.4%. Additionally, 39.3% of adults report a sedentary lifestyle, and 31.9% smoke, both of which contribute to chronic health conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

To address these issues, McCreary CES is implementing a "Food for All: Health, Security, and Sustainability" program. This initiative aims to increase access to fresh fruits and vegetables, enhance knowledge on selecting, storing, preparing, and preserving these foods, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. CES collaborates with statewide partners, including the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, Community Farm Alliance, KY Farm to School Network, and Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife, to build systems that improve food access and nutrition education.

Youth engagement is a cornerstone of this program. Kentucky 4-H plays a vital role by providing youth with skills in nutrition, culinary arts, financial education, civic education, leadership, and entrepreneurship. Programs like these have led to increased family meal preparation and nutrition education, community engagement, and improved health and well-being across participants.

In agriculture, CES supports producers in optimizing plant, crop, and forage production through sustainable practices. This includes implementing conservation techniques, selecting climate-adapted crop varieties, and preparing for extreme weather events. Extension programming encourages diverse crops and horticulture species to reduce risk and explore specialty crops, such as berries, herbs, and ornamental plants.

"Food for All" is committed to fostering a healthier, more resilient McCreary County by addressing the interconnected issues of nutrition, food security, community engagement, and sustainable agriculture.

Long-Term Outcomes:

Individuals and families of all income levels have access to affordable and nutritious foods.

More Kentuckians routinely met the guidelines for the consumption of (locally-grown) fresh fruits and vegetables.

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.  

Increased availability and accessibility to community-based health resources.

Improved quality of life through connection and civic engagement.

Intermediate Outcomes:

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

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.

Increased and/or strengthened partnerships to address community health or safety issues.

More public spaces are revitalized for community engagement.

Initial Outcomes:

Improved skills related to safe food preparation and food preservation.

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.

Increased awareness of community resources to support health-promoting behaviors.

Greater knowledge of community partnerships and collaboration strategies.

Evaluation:

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: Improved skills related to safe food preparation and food preservation. (initial)

Indicator: 

• Number of individuals who reported increasing their knowledge, skills, or intentions regarding the safe storage, handling, preparation and/or preservation of food through Extension programs and resources.  
• Number of individuals who reported supplementing their diets with healthy foods that they grew, harvested, or preserved (e.g. community or backyard gardens, fishing, hunting). 

Method: 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: Improved production practices

Indicator: Number of producers who reported increased knowledge of crop and forage production, fertility management, varieties, pest control, and/or sustainable practices.

Method: Surveys

Timeline: Annual

Outcome: Increased confidence and motivation to engage in health-promoting behaviors (e.g. add physical activity, consume more nutritious foods, receive vaccination or screen) (initial)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported/demonstrates improved knowledge, skills, opinions, or confidence regarding a health-promoting behavior as a result of a participating in a health and well-being program

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration or follow up evaluation

Learning Opportunities:

Audience: Individuals & Farmers

Project or Activity: Home-Based Micro Processing

Content or Curriculum: HBMP Training materials

Inputs: Programmatic materials, health department resources, local farmers, and Farmers Market vendors.

Dates: May-July

Audience: Communities

Project or Activity: School, Community or Recovery Gardens

Content or Curriculum: NEP “Grow your own” publications, Hort. Dept. publications, youth gardening curriculum, Recovery Garden Toolkit

Inputs: Gardening materials, ASAP coalition, Master Gardener volunteers, community partners (Christian Appalachian Project, local food pantries, McCreary County Public Library, Lake Cumberland Community Action Agency, Lake Cumberland Health Department, school system), 4-H members, grant funds (ag mini grant, operation UNITE), Senior Citizens Center, Next Chapter LLP recovery center, NEP Assistant

Dates: March-October

Audience: Youth  

Project or Activity: Nutrition and Food Preparation

Content or Curriculum: Exploring My Plate  

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

Dates: September 1 – August 30 

Audience: Homeowners and consumers

Project or Activity: Grow Appalachia

Content or Curriculum: Publications, Fact Sheets, Extension Master Gardeners curriculum, Workshops, Monthly meetings

Inputs: UK Extension Agents and Specialists, Grow Appalachia grant funding, Kentucky Extension Master Gardener Progam, UT TSU Extension Agents and Specialists, UT TSU Master Gardeners Program

Date: February - October

Audience: Forage and livestock producers

Project or Activity: Forage meetings, South Central Kentucky Hay Contest

Content or Curriculum: Educational materials including publications, hands-on activities, demonstrations.

Inputs: UK Forage Extension Specialists,UK Forage Technicians and Research Associates, UK Extension Agents

Date: October-December

Audience: Families & Individuals

Project or Activity: Get Healthy McCreary

Content or Curriculum: Publications, Health Coalitions, Mindfulness Trails, Fit Tips, Hiking for Health

Inputs: Programmatic materials, health coalitions, healthcare providers, health department

Date: March-October

Evaluation:

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: Improved skills related to safe food preparation and food preservation. (initial)

Indicator: 

• Number of individuals who reported increasing their knowledge, skills, or intentions regarding the safe storage, handling, preparation and/or preservation of food through Extension programs and resources.  
• Number of individuals who reported supplementing their diets with healthy foods that they grew, harvested, or preserved (e.g. community or backyard gardens, fishing, hunting). 

Method: 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: Improved production practices

Indicator: Number of producers who reported increased knowledge of crop and forage production, fertility management, varieties, pest control, and/or sustainable practices.

Method: Surveys

Timeline: Annual

Outcome: Increased confidence and motivation to engage in health-promoting behaviors (e.g. add physical activity, consume more nutritious foods, receive vaccination or screen) (initial)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported/demonstrates improved knowledge, skills, opinions, or confidence regarding a health-promoting behavior as a result of a participating in a health and well-being program

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration or follow up evaluation