Madison County CES

County Emphasis:

Animal, Plant and Natural Resources Management and Development

Concentration 1:

Animal Production and Management

Concentration 2:

Plant Production and Management

Concentration 3:

Sustainability, Natural Resources and Wildlife Management, and Environment

Concentration 4:

Small Farm Development

Situation:

Kentucky’s animal production and management strategies encompass sustainable practices, health-focused care, and economic viability across all species thus contributing significantly to the state’s agricultural landscape. Beef cattle play a crucial role in converting Kentucky’s vast 7 million acres of pasture and forage into valuable products. CES focuses on sustainable grazing practices and ensuring optimal use of natural resources like land and water.

 

Kentucky is renowned as the Horse Capital of the World and is home to a diverse equine population, including thoroughbreds, stock horses, standardbreds, and other breeds. Kentucky’s horse industry focuses on breeding excellence. Many commercial swine farms operate in the state, focusing on efficient growth and high-quality pork. Swine farmers implement strict biosecurity protocols to prevent disease transmission and minimize stress. Kentucky’s small ruminant producers raise various sheep and goat breeds for meat, fiber, and dairy purposes. Small ruminants thrive on pasture-based systems, utilizing natural forage with a priority on health management, including vaccinations, parasite control, and nutrition.

 

Poultry is the number one agricultural industry in the state, contributing significantly to the economy. The poultry sector contains thriving broiler industry for meat production and laying hens for egg production. Many small flock owners raise chickens for personal consumption or local markets. Implementing conservation practices that protect soil and water resources will ensure the long-term sustainability of Kentucky farmland and improve resilience to climate variability.

 

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.

 

Youth Focus

Kentucky’s youth should have access to education and life-skills in animal production and management. According to the 2022 U.S. Census of Agriculture, Kentucky has seen a decline in the number of farms and agricultural land, alongside a slight increase in the average age of producers and farm size. Successful operation of farms and ranches requires business skills, ongoing training and education, and safety awareness (USDA, 2024). The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service Community Needs Assessment (2023) highlights key agricultural priorities, including youth life skill training, workforce readiness, access to affordable and nutritious food, support for the local agriculture industry, and promoting agricultural literacy among youth. 4-H projects in animal production and management can help young people develop life skills, learn about responsibility, and gain content knowledge about animals through breeding or market projects.

 

Optimizing plant, crop and forage production is paramount as Kentucky producers navigate the challenges of economics, climate variability, and evolving consumer demands. Key challenges and strategies to enhance sustainable practices across various agricultural domains include:  rising input costs (seeds, fertilizers, machinery), crop price fluctuations, knowledge of soil health, and water management to produce high yielding crops for long-term productivity.

 

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.

 

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 is blessed with a rich array of natural resources, including vast forests, abundant waterways, and wildlife. With woodlands in each of the 120 counties and forest industries in 110 counties, Kentuckians in both rural and urban areas all derive benefits from woodlands. Hardwood forests cover 50% of Kentucky and 473,000 individuals own 88% of the 12.4 million forested acres in the state. Forests stimulate the Kentucky economy through employment and production to the tune of $13 billion annually and there are over 28,000 jobs in Kentucky’s forest sector. Forests provide recreational opportunities and are a powerful tool in efforts to promote sustainability and support native diversity. Wildlife management programs assist landowners through both urban and rural wildlife management and damage control initiatives.

 

However, Kentucky’s forests and natural areas face growing risks. Threats from climate change are increasing as evidenced by some of the warmest and wettest years on record during the past decade and Kentucky is ranked as the ninth most vulnerable state in the country by long-term climate change impacts. Extreme weather events, such as the December 2021 tornado in Western Kentucky and the 2022 flooding in Eastern Kentucky are becoming more frequent and severe. In addition, a wide range of invasive species (including insects, pathogens, animals, and plants) can cause problems in woodlands, forests and other natural areas, threatening management and long-term sustainability.

 

Kentucky’s Extension remains committed to developing adaptive management strategies for the critical issues facing the sustainability of farms, natural areas, and forests for today and in the future. Implementing soil and water conservation practices in both urban and rural watersheds is critical to the long-term sustainability of Kentucky’s natural resources.

 

Youth Focus

Educating youth about natural resources and environmental sciences is crucial for our future, as it empowers them to become proactive stewards of our planet. The Kentucky 4-H Youth Development Program aims to boost environmental literacy among youth, addressing a significant gap in environmental knowledge revealed by surveys from the Kentucky Environmental Education Council. America’s prosperity is inseparably linked to the health of our environment. A healthy environment is an essential component of the quality of life of humans and all living organisms (USDA, 2024). Optimistically, the National 4-H Council’s 2024 Index Survey found that 83% of youth enjoy science, 66% see it as a problem-solving tool, and 62% are interested in science-related careers. The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension System’s 2023 assessment identified key priorities such as youth life skill training, workforce readiness, and promoting natural resource literacy. Through 4-H projects in natural resources and environmental sciences, young people develop life skills, learn responsibility, and gain knowledge about sustaining our natural resources through various projects and programs.

 

Small farm development is a crucial aspect of the Kentucky agricultural sector, especially in the context of supporting rural economies and ensuring food security. The National

Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) defines a small farm as an operation with a gross cash farm income of $250,000 or less. These farms are typically family-owned and operated, and they represent more than 90 percent of farms in the U.S. These farms face challenges such as urbanization, an aging farmer population, farm consolidation, new and beginning farmers, and changing climate patterns.

 

Small farms play a vital role in the competitiveness and sustainability of rural and farm economies, protecting and enhancing natural resources and the environment, and maintaining rural populations. Urban small scale farm production is an emerging and fast grow segment of farm economies. The development and sustainability of small farms is important in providing a nursery for new enterprises and marketing systems, which is crucial for innovation and diversification in agriculture. Small farm development can be hindered by access to capital, markets, and technology. Additionally, owners of small farms may lack the knowledge or resources to implement sustainable practices that could improve their economic viability and environmental stewardship.

 

Kentucky Cooperative Extension will continue to aid small farm owners by providing educational opportunities and increasing awareness of resources offered through various programs and online platforms. This includes developing new and improved practices to reduce production costs, protect and improve soil and water resources, and offer options for specialty crop production. Extension personnel will also promote whole farm plans, estate planning, farm transitions, risk management, and market opportunities.

 

The development of small farms is imperative for the health of Kentucky’s agricultural sector, rural communities and emerge urban agriculture.

County Situation:

According to the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Community Needs Assessment, the top priority issues relating to agriculture, natural resources, and horticulture were:

• Sustainability of family farms
• Preserving/managing agricultural land
• Strengthening/supporting the local food and agriculture industry
• Market support for locally grown and produced foods
• Providing increased market opportunities for farmers
• Issues affecting crops (e.g., pests, diseases, weed issues)
• Assisting farmers in agricultural production or profitability
• Helping individual, families, farmers, and/or businesses prepare for or recover from natural disasters
• Dealing with climate variation
• Helping producers create carbon neutral businesses

Long-Term Outcomes:

Adult

Increase the quality and number of animals or pounds of milk produced annually contributing to the increased and more stable financial position for producers.? 

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

Producers are routinely implementing guidelines and recommendations for efficient and financially sound production demonstrating sustainable behavior change.? 

Continually implementing new technology and production practices.? 

Improve the quality of life of animals and humans.

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

Increase the use of sustainable management practices across all production methods leading to enhanced production efficiency and reductions in the carbon footprint. 

Producers are routinely following Beef Quality Care & Assurance standards to produce healthy and high-quality beef. 

Continually adoption of new technology and production practices.

Increase the use of sustainable management practices by horse owners. 

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

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

Youth

Youth will make informed decisions regarding agricultural products and services.

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

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

 

Adult

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.

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.  

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.

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.

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

Reduced unnecessary pesticide exposure to farmers, agribusiness and the general public

Increased farm productivity because of a reduction in yield and quality losses due to diseases

Increased competitiveness for U.S. farmers and the agricultural industry

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.

Strengthening 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. Helping to maintain or increase domestic markets and increase export markets for grain crops and tobacco by improving quality of commodities compared to that of foreign competitors.  

Helping to educate turfgrass managers on how to maintain surfaces that meet the needs of their desired uses while improving economic and environmental benefits of turfgrasses.

Work with farmers and those interested in farming on generational succession in farms to improve sustainability of the farms for generations.

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.

Youth 

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

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

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

 

Adult

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)). 

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

Wildlife habitat is increased and improved. 

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

Youth

Youth will advocate for natural resources in their communities.

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

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

Adult

Achieve a stable economic environment where small farms are consistently profitable and competitive within both local and broader markets. 

Establish networks of urban farms that are integral to their local food systems, providing fresh produce and fostering urban-rural agricultural links. 

Strive to have all participating small farms fully implement sustainable practices that protect and enhance natural resources. 

Equip small farms to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of changing climate patterns, ensuring their sustainability and resilience. 

Enhance the role of small farms in maintaining rural populations and contributing to cultural heritage, ensuring that these communities remain vibrant and connected. 

Intermediate Outcomes:

Adult

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.

Increased biosecurity strategies that promote both animal and human health related behaviors for a safe food system.

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

Annually evaluate how they care for and manage their horses using cost effective strategies. 

Consider how they can use good biosecurity practices to ensure the health of their horses.  

Youth

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

Youth will communicate agricultural ideas and concepts more effectively. 

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

 

Adult

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.

Expansion of Extension programming by broadening the scope of extension services to include more comprehensive support for agronomic and horticultural crops and forages suited to Kentucky's changing climate and soil conditions.

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

Adoption of improved pesticide safety practices

Increased adoption of effective crop protection (i.e. IPM) methods by stakeholders to manage diseases

Increased number of stakeholders who scout for diseases, monitor disease risk factors, and use research-based information

Early identification of potential disease outbreaks and awareness of disease trends

Judicious use of pesticide-based disease management

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.

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

Adoption of improved pesticide application practices.  Improve understanding and compliance with state pesticide applicator regulations.

Proper implementation of technologies to help farmers, crop consultants, and pesticide applicators monitor, document, plant, harvest, and manage crops and forages. Technologies can include, but are not limited to, global navigation systems, section controls, applicator maps, soil sampling maps, yield maps, unmanned aerial vehicles, genetic traits, data analysis, etc.

Youth

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

Youth will communicate agricultural ideas and concepts more effectively.

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

 

Adult

New or improved practices, behaviors, or choices that will occur in participants or communities because of the knowledge or awareness they gained from their contact with Extension (these are behavior change outcomes that are typically measured in follow-up evaluations because they require time to mature.) 

Actively install and use resource monitoring technology to assist in data-driven decision to monitor their forest’s health forest health, water resources, and land usage.  

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

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

Youth

Youth will take responsible action in natural resources conservation.

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

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

Youth will communicate natural resources ideas and concepts more effectively.

 

Adult

 

Assist small farm owners in developing and implementing comprehensive whole farm plans that address financial, production, and environmental aspects. 

Support the establishment of new farm enterprises that can offer innovative products and practices, enhancing the economic resilience of the small farm sector. 

Provide robust support for estate planning and farm transitions to ensure the longevity of small farms across generations. 

Develop and disseminate advanced risk management tools and insurance products tailored for the unique needs of small farms. 

Increase the accessibility of modern agricultural technologies to small farms, coupled with training programs that enable owners to effectively use these technologies. 

Initial Outcomes:

Adult

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.

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. 

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. 

Youth

Youth will explore their spark in agriculture.

Youth will gain knowledge and develop skills in agriculture.

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

Youth will expand life and work readiness skills in agriculture, gaining awareness of the diverse opportunities within the field of agriculture.

 

Adult

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.

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.

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.

Initial and continuing education opportunities for certified pesticide applicators

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

Stakeholders are more aware of current and new and/or emerging disease issues

Stakeholders have access to timely diagnostics to avoid or reduce the impact of disease outbreaks

Stakeholders are more aware of UK plant pathology research and resources

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.

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.

Support for diverse crop trials by initiating pilot projects that support the planting of diverse crops.

Fulfillment of annual GAP Training requirements for GAP Certification of tobacco producers.

Facilitate trainings to provide necessary knowledge to support those desiring to obtain commercial and non-commercial applicator licenses and maintain CEUs from the Kentucky Department of Agriculture in the turf and ornamental category.

Assisting farmers who need to document specific climate objectives and/or management practices of grain and tobacco buyers.

Youth

Youth will explore their spark in agriculture.???

Youth will gain knowledge and develop skills in agriculture.?

Youth will develop a greater awareness and appreciation for the impact of agriculture in their daily life.??Youth will expand life and work readiness skills in agriculture, gaining awareness of the diverse opportunities within the field of agriculture.

 

Adult

 

Develop and launch targeted educational programs that focus on sustainable practices, risk management, and cost reduction specifically tailored for small farm owners. 

Increase access to existing resources and tools including online platforms to increase awareness and usability for small farm owners. 

Facilitate connections between small farm owners and local markets, including urban markets, to help diversify sales channels and improve income stability. Implement trial programs for specialty crops that could be suitable for small farms, providing a new avenue for diversification and innovation in crop production. 

Organize community events and workshops that foster networking among small farm owners and promote the sharing of best practices and innovations. 

Evaluation:

Beef

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 

Equine

Outcome: Increased Horse Management Knowledge 

Indicator: 

• Number of horse owners using Body Condition scoring to manage their horses. 
• Number of horse owners changing practices to reduce feed waste. 
• Number of horse owners using hay selection and use based on forage testing evaluation 

Method: Evaluation results and/or records from individual consultations 

Timeline: ongoing 

Outcome: Increased understanding of the horse industry  

Indicator: 

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

Method: Evaluation results and/or records from individual consultations 

Timeline: ongoing 

Outcome: Understanding of equine farm and facility sustainable management  

Indicator: 

• Number of participants implementing mud management practices. 
• Number of participants using temporary fences for grazing systems for horses. 

Method: Evaluation results and records from individual consultations  

Timeline: Ongoing

 

Livestock

Outcome: Increased livestock marketing knowledge 

Indicator: 

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

Method: Program evaluation tools/ surveys 

Timeline: Ongoing 

Outcome: Increased livestock management knowledge 

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

Method: Program evaluation tools / surveys 

Timeline: Ongoing 

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

Indicator: 

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

Method: Surveys at CEU events 

Timeline:  

Outcome: Increased understanding of veterinary arthropod pest identification  

Indicator: 

• Number of participants that report knowledge gain in identification skills of arthropods. 
• Number of attendees that report behavior changes in pest monitoring. 

Method: In person survey  

Timeline: Immediately following Extension event  

Poultry

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

Indicator: 

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

Method: Survey

Timeline: At the program

Adult

Outcome: Improved production practices

Indicator: 

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

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

Timeline: After program participation.

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

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

Method: Primarily surveys, records from consultations

Timeline: Annual

Outcome: Early identification of potential disease outbreaks

Indicator: 

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

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

Timeline: Annual

 

Outcome: Improved production practices and economic return of production inputs

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

Method: Surveys, participant feedback, CES agent feedback

Timeline: Frequently to annual

Outcome: Improved production practices

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

Method: Surveys

Timeline: Annual

Outcome: Improved tobacco production practices, efficiency, and profitability

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

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

Timeline: annual

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

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

Method: ANR agent feedback, grower feedback

Timeline: Annual

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

Indicator: 

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

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

Timeline: annual

Outcome: Improved adoption of best management practices

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

Method: Survey

Timeline: annual

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

Indicator: Number new applicator licenses awarded

Method: Survey and results from the KDA

Timeline: annual

Outcome: Improved knowledge base about the potential for hemp in KY

Indicator: Number of farms adopting/continuing hemp production.  

Method: Survey of program participants

Timeline: Annual and on-going

Outcome: Improving forage and livestock management

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

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

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

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

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

Method: Primarily surveys, consultations

Timeline: Annual

Outcome: Increased crop management knowledge and skills?

Indicator: 

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

Method: Attendance and program evaluations / surveys

Timeline: Ongoing?

Outcome: 

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:

Adult

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

Indicator: 

• Number of participants who reported that they gained knowledge of wildlife. 
• Number of participants who reported they gained their awareness of forestry. 
• Number of participants who reported they gained their awareness of natural resources.   

Method: Survey (Self-Assessment of Learning Gains) 

Timeline: At program 

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:

Youth

Outcome: Short? 

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 

Outcome: Improved commercial production practices for specialty crops 

Indicators: 

• Number of producers who reported increased yield.  
• Number of new or beginning specialty crop growers. 
• Number of producers who reported improved produce quality. 
• Number of trained volunteers.
• Number of commercial growers who reported improved produce quality.
• Number of commercial growers who reported increased yield in specialty crops (fruit, vegetables, herbs, etc.).
• Number of commercial growers who reported that they expanded or developed new markets for specialty crops. 
• Number of commercial specialty crop growers who reported adoption of new technologies (acquisition of greenhouse, high tunnel, lighting, etc.)
• Number of commercial specialty crop growers who reported improved management practices (soil sampling, foliar sampling, integrated pest management, cover cropping, etc.)
• Number of commercial specialty crop growers who reported reduced production inputs/costs.

Method: Grower survey, direct observation and feedback 

Timeline: ongoing 

---

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

Indicators: 

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

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

Timeline: ongoing 

Learning Opportunities:

Beef

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 

Dates: TBD

Audience: Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents 

Project or Activity: BQCA trainings 

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

Inputs: 

Dates: TBD

Audience: Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents 

Project or Activity: Backgrounding Short Course 

Content or Curriculum: Backgrounding short course presentations & materials 

Inputs: UK beef facilities, Beef IRM coordinators and specialists, Industry sponsorships and External grant funds 

Dates: Every other year with date TBD 

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 

Dates: TBD

Audience: Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents 

Project or Activity: Bull Value Assessment Program (BVAP) 

Content or Curriculum: 

Inputs:

Dates: TBD

Audience: Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents 

Project or Activity: Post-weaning Value Assessment Program (PVAP) 

Content or Curriculum: 

Inputs: Coordination with Kevin Laurent & Maggie Ginn 

Dates: TBD

Audience: Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents 

Project or Activity: Freezer Beef Short Course 

Content or Curriculum: 

Inputs:

Dates: TBD

Audience: Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents 

Project or Activity: Beef Bash 

Content or Curriculum: 

Inputs:

Dates: TBD

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 

Dates: TBD

Audience: Beef Cattle Owners, Industry representatives, Agents 

Project or Activity: New Farmer Program 

Content or Curriculum: 

Inputs:

Dates: TBD

Equine

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 

Dates: First Friday January – June, September - December 

Audience: Adult Horse Owners  

Project or Activity: Horses and Horsemen  

Content or Curriculum: Seminars on Best management practices   

Inputs: UK Specialist, ANR Agents Industry Professionals   

Dates: TBD  

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  

Dates: 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   

Dates: TBD

Audience: Livestock stakeholders (producers, lenders, government agencies, etc.) 

Project or Activity: Marketing related programming 

Content or Curriculum: Market outlook, risk management, value-added marketing, etc. 

Inputs: Extension faculty and staff, ANR Agents and industry support   

Dates: 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   

Dates: TBD

Poultry

Audience: Agents

Project or Activity: In-service updates / trainings

Content or Curriculum: Educational materials and program delivery

Inputs: Coordination with ANR agents

Dates:  TBD

Audience: Poultry owners and Agents

Project or Activity: In-person multi-county workshops

Content or Curriculum: Educational materials and in-person delivery

Inputs: 

Dates: TBD

Youth

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: Equine

Content or Curriculum: Ohio State University (OSU) Horse Learning Lab Kit, Kentucky Horse Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Horse Reference Manual (Alberta 4-H), 4-H Horse Academy, Kentucky 4-H Horse Website 

Inputs:

• 4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.
• Certified volunteers in animal sciences (livestock, horse, poultry, rabbit, and dog).
• Accredited volunteers in agriculture.
• Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.
• Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.
• Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.
• Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.
• Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.
• External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.

Dates: 

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

Dates: 

• Kentucky 4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31) 
• Kentucky 4-H Livestock Judging Contest (offered June each year) 
• Kentucky 4-H Livestock Skillathon and Quiz Bowl Contest (offered each year) 
• Kentucky 4-H Livestock Shows (offered each year) 

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: Kentucky 4-H Poultry Program 

Content or Curriculum: Pullet Project Guide (university of Kentucky), 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) 

Inputs: 

• 4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.
• Certified volunteers in animal sciences (livestock, horse, poultry, rabbit, and dog).
• Accredited volunteers in agriculture.
• Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.
• Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.
• Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.
• Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.
• Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.
• External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.

Dates: 

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

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

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: Kentucky 4-H Country Ham Program 

Content or Curriculum: Kentucky Animal Science Livestock Discovery Website, Kentucky Livestock Volunteer Certification Curriculum, Ohio State University (OSU) Livestock Resource Handbook, Ohio State University (OSU) Livestock Project and Record Book, Ohio State University (OSU) Learning Lab Kits, National 4-H Project Books and Helper’s Guide, Country Ham Meat Lesson Kit (University of Kentucky)

Inputs: 

• 4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.
• Certified volunteers in animal sciences (livestock, horse, poultry, rabbit, and dog).
• Accredited volunteers in agriculture.
• Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.
• Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.
• Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.
• Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.
• Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.
• External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.

Dates: 

• 4-H Program Year (September 1-August 31) 
• Kentucky 4-H Country Ham Contest (offered Kentucky State Fair - August each year) 

Audience: Youth

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

Content or Curriculum: 

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

Inputs:

• 4-H programs in agriculture in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.
• Certified volunteers in animal sciences (livestock, horse, poultry, rabbit, and dog).
• Accredited volunteers in agriculture.
• Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.
• Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.
• Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.
• Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.
• Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.
• External stakeholder engagement and support such as commodity groups and agriculturalist organizations.

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

 

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: TBD

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: TBD

Audience: Agricultural producers

Project or Activity: IPM Programs

Content or Curriculum: Educational materials and program delivery

Inputs: EIP Grant, UK Specialists, commodity grants

Date: TBD

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:  TBD

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: TBD

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: TBD

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: 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: 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: 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: 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: 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: 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: Annual (25 per year)

Audience: Turfgrass managers, Extension agents, Public

Project or Activity: Turfgrass management including, but not limited to:  sod farms, golf courses, sports fields, parks, cemeteries, and lawns

Content or Curriculum: Publications, Fact Sheets, Workshops, Field Days, County Meetings, Regional meetings, field visits, emails and phone calls

Inputs: UK extension associates and specialist, industry professionals

Date: Frequent throughout the year

Audience: Turfgrass managers, Extension Agents, Public

Project or Activity: Turf and Landscape Management Short Course

Content or Curriculum: Pesticide training, KDA test, and educational conference covering topics including: pesticide safety, weed control, disease management, professionalism, aquatic management, turfgrass physiology, selection, establishment, and management of turfgrass, water quality, soil physical and chemical properties.

Inputs: UK extension associates and specialist, nationally recognized turfgrass professors, and industry professionals

Date: annually

Audience: Hemp producers, potential hemp producers, hemp industry professionals

Project or Activity: Hemp Education

Content or Curriculum: Live trainings, virtual training, online videos, field days, supporting educational publications, program delivery, diagnostic support.

Inputs: UK Extension Specialists and Associates, ANR agents

Date: Annual and on-going

Audience: Forage and livestock producers

Project or Activity: Grazing Schools, Fencing Schools, Statewide Grazing Conferences, Statewide Hay and Stored Forage Conferences, Regional Forage Tours, Novel Endophyte Workshops

Content or Curriculum: Educational materials including proceedings, manuals, hands-on activities, demonstrations, and on-line materials including webpages, social media, and videos.

Inputs: UK Forage Extension Specialists (2), UK Master Grazer Coordinator (1), UK Master Grazer Interns (2), UK Forage Technicians and Research Associates (4)

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

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: Annual

Adult

Audience: Loggers 

Project or Activity: Master Logger Program 

Content or Curriculum: Master Logger Curriculum 

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

Dates: TBD

Audience: Landowners 

Project or Activity: Woodland Owners Short Course 

Content or Curriculum: Range of speakers representing different topics and important agencies, webinar and field components 

Inputs: Developed in partnership with Billy Thomas, meeting local community needs and partners. 

Dates: TBD

Audience: Forest industry professionals 

Project or Activity: Wood Expo 

Content or Curriculum: Range of speakers representing different topics and important agencies at this biannual event, Extension coordination led by Chad Niman. 

Inputs: Coordination with Kentucky Forest Industries Association and other partners. 

Dates: TBD

Audience: General public, adult 

Project or Activity: Master Naturalist Program 

Content or Curriculum: Master Naturalist Curriculum, range of speakers representing different topics and important agencies. 

Inputs: Developed in partnership with Ellen Crocker and Laurie Thomas. 

Dates: TBD

Audience: Adults 

Project or Activity: IPM and Pesticide Programs 

Content or Curriculum: Educational materials and program delivery 

Inputs: UK and subject matter Specialists 

Dates: TBD

Audience: General public 

Project or Activity: Pest and disease identification 

Content or Curriculum: Clinical diagnoses and trainings  

Inputs: Diagnostic labs and services 

Dates: TBD

 

Youth

Audience: 4-H Members 

Project or Activity: Kentucky 4-H Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences Academy and Teen Ambassador Program

Content or Curriculum: Water, Entomology, Forestry, Wildlife; Curriculum - National and State-Level Research-Based, Vetted Publications, Curricula, and Educational Resources (e.g., Project WET, Project WILD, Project Learning Tree, Project Underground, Leopold Education Project) 

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.

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

Audience: 4-H Members 

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: Entomology, Forestry, Wood Science, Geology; 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.
• Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.
• Engagement of staff, volunteers and youth in delivering the program. 

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

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.
• Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.
• Engagement of staff, volunteers and youth in delivering the program.

Dates: 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.

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

Audience: Specialty Crop Growers 

Project or Activity: Programming for commercial or pre-commercial (training to be commercial growers) 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, governmental agencies (NRCS, FSA, etc.) 

Dates: TBD

Audience: Non-commercial urban and community gardeners 

Project or Activity: Programming for specialty crop production and management that is non-commercial 

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

Inputs: Extension Specialists, Kentucky Horticulture Council, USDA funding, Dept of Labor funding, county agents, KDA, professional member organizations, community advocacy and faith-based groups, schools 

Dates: TBD

Evaluation:

Beef

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 

Equine

Outcome: Increased Horse Management Knowledge 

Indicator: 

• Number of horse owners using Body Condition scoring to manage their horses. 
• Number of horse owners changing practices to reduce feed waste. 
• Number of horse owners using hay selection and use based on forage testing evaluation 

Method: Evaluation results and/or records from individual consultations 

Timeline: ongoing 

Outcome: Increased understanding of the horse industry  

Indicator: 

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

Method: Evaluation results and/or records from individual consultations 

Timeline: ongoing 

Outcome: Understanding of equine farm and facility sustainable management  

Indicator: 

• Number of participants implementing mud management practices. 
• Number of participants using temporary fences for grazing systems for horses. 

Method: Evaluation results and records from individual consultations  

Timeline: Ongoing

 

Livestock

Outcome: Increased livestock marketing knowledge 

Indicator: 

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

Method: Program evaluation tools/ surveys 

Timeline: Ongoing 

Outcome: Increased livestock management knowledge 

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

Method: Program evaluation tools / surveys 

Timeline: Ongoing 

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

Indicator: 

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

Method: Surveys at CEU events 

Timeline:  

Outcome: Increased understanding of veterinary arthropod pest identification  

Indicator: 

• Number of participants that report knowledge gain in identification skills of arthropods. 
• Number of attendees that report behavior changes in pest monitoring. 

Method: In person survey  

Timeline: Immediately following Extension event  

Poultry

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

Indicator: 

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

Method: Survey

Timeline: At the program

Adult

Outcome: Improved production practices

Indicator: 

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

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

Timeline: After program participation.

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

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

Method: Primarily surveys, records from consultations

Timeline: Annual

Outcome: Early identification of potential disease outbreaks

Indicator: 

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

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

Timeline: Annual

 

Outcome: Improved production practices and economic return of production inputs

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

Method: Surveys, participant feedback, CES agent feedback

Timeline: Frequently to annual

Outcome: Improved production practices

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

Method: Surveys

Timeline: Annual

Outcome: Improved tobacco production practices, efficiency, and profitability

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

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

Timeline: annual

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

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

Method: ANR agent feedback, grower feedback

Timeline: Annual

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

Indicator: 

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

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

Timeline: annual

Outcome: Improved adoption of best management practices

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

Method: Survey

Timeline: annual

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

Indicator: Number new applicator licenses awarded

Method: Survey and results from the KDA

Timeline: annual

Outcome: Improved knowledge base about the potential for hemp in KY

Indicator: Number of farms adopting/continuing hemp production.  

Method: Survey of program participants

Timeline: Annual and on-going

Outcome: Improving forage and livestock management

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

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

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

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

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

Method: Primarily surveys, consultations

Timeline: Annual

Outcome: Increased crop management knowledge and skills?

Indicator: 

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

Method: Attendance and program evaluations / surveys

Timeline: Ongoing?

Outcome: 

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:

Adult

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

Indicator: 

• Number of participants who reported that they gained knowledge of wildlife. 
• Number of participants who reported they gained their awareness of forestry. 
• Number of participants who reported they gained their awareness of natural resources.   

Method: Survey (Self-Assessment of Learning Gains) 

Timeline: At program 

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:

Youth

Outcome: Short? 

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 

Outcome: Improved commercial production practices for specialty crops 

Indicators: 

• Number of producers who reported increased yield.  
• Number of new or beginning specialty crop growers. 
• Number of producers who reported improved produce quality. 
• Number of trained volunteers.
• Number of commercial growers who reported improved produce quality.
• Number of commercial growers who reported increased yield in specialty crops (fruit, vegetables, herbs, etc.).
• Number of commercial growers who reported that they expanded or developed new markets for specialty crops. 
• Number of commercial specialty crop growers who reported adoption of new technologies (acquisition of greenhouse, high tunnel, lighting, etc.)
• Number of commercial specialty crop growers who reported improved management practices (soil sampling, foliar sampling, integrated pest management, cover cropping, etc.)
• Number of commercial specialty crop growers who reported reduced production inputs/costs.

Method: Grower survey, direct observation and feedback 

Timeline: ongoing 

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

Indicators: 

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

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

Timeline: ongoing