Whitley County CES

County Emphasis:

Environmental Stewardship

Concentration 1:

Connected & Resilient Communities

Concentration 2:

Sustainability, Natural Resources and Wildlife Management, and Environment

Concentration 3:

Animal Production and Management

Concentration 4:

Small Farm Development

Situation:

Environmental stewardship is essential to the long-term sustainability of Kentucky’s agricultural productivity, natural landscapes, and rural and urban communities. Kentucky’s agricultural strength—anchored in diverse animal production systems—depends on the responsible use and conservation of land, water, and natural resources. With over 7 million acres of pasture and forage, Kentucky is a leader in beef cattle production, converting natural resources into high-quality agricultural goods through sustainable grazing practices.

 The state’s equine industry, globally recognized for its excellence in breeding, and its thriving poultry, swine, and small ruminant sectors, contribute significantly to Kentucky’s economy. These industries rely on sound management systems that prioritize animal health, environmental care, and economic viability. CES supports producers through educational programming that introduces emerging technologies, promotes efficient resource use, and encourages conservation strategies to protect soil and water quality—ensuring productivity today and resilience for tomorrow.

 Beyond agriculture, Kentucky’s rich natural heritage includes 12.4 million acres of forested land, 88% of which is privately owned. These hardwood forests, present in all 120 counties, are an economic engine generating $13 billion annually and supporting over 28,000 jobs. Forests also offer critical environmental and recreational benefits, supporting biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and quality of life. However, they face mounting threats from development pressure, invasive species, and climate change. Kentucky is among the top ten most climate-vulnerable states, experiencing increasingly severe weather events like the 2021 tornadoes and 2022 flooding. Adaptive woodland and wildlife management strategies are necessary to mitigate these impacts and protect future generations’ access to vital natural resources.

 Conservation efforts must extend across landscapes—rural and urban. Soil and water conservation practices in watersheds, along with wildlife and woodland stewardship, are integral to maintaining Kentucky’s environmental balance. As the demand for food, fiber, and energy rises, CES supports sustainable land-use practices that promote ecological health while meeting community needs.

 Environmental stewardship is also closely tied to community resilience. As Kentucky recovers from economic shifts and natural disasters, Extension programming helps communities build strength through place-based planning, outdoor space revitalization, disaster readiness, and digital connectivity. The 2023 Community Needs Assessment identified broadband access and digital literacy as key priorities. These resources are vital for environmental education, emergency communication, and fostering community engagement in sustainability efforts.

 The Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service remains committed to empowering individuals, producers, and communities with the knowledge, resources, and adaptive strategies needed to protect Kentucky’s natural assets. By advancing environmental stewardship, CES contributes to a more sustainable, resilient, and prosperous Commonwealth.

 

Youth Focus

 Kentucky’s future sustainability depends on the education and engagement of its youth. As the number of farms declines and the average age of producers increases, Kentucky 4-H prepares youth to contribute meaningfully to agriculture through animal science projects that build responsibility, business acumen, and industry knowledge. Through breeding and market animal programs, youth learn essential life skills and gain firsthand experience in animal production and management—supporting the long-term vitality of Kentucky’s agriculture industry.

 Environmental literacy among youth is equally critical. As climate change, habitat loss, and invasive species pose growing threats, 4-H natural resource and environmental science programs offer opportunities for hands-on learning in conservation, forestry, and sustainability. These projects help young people understand the importance of protecting ecosystems while building problem-solving and scientific thinking skills. With 62% of youth expressing interest in science-related careers, 4-H helps prepare the next generation of environmental scientists, land managers, and conservation leaders.

 Youth are also key drivers of connected and resilient communities. In an increasingly digital world, young people use technology and social networks to foster collaboration, promote access to opportunity, and strengthen civic life. Kentucky 4-H provides resources to cultivate youth who are healthy, productive, and engaged. These thriving individuals contribute to stronger communities by participating in local initiatives, addressing community needs, and building inclusive, sustainable futures.

 By investing in youth development, the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service ensures that the next generation is equipped to carry forward a legacy of environmental stewardship, agricultural sustainability, and community resilience across the Commonwealth.

County Situation:

Whitley County’s hardwood forests and natural resources are vital to its economy, ecology, and community well-being. Yet, sustaining these assets is increasingly challenging due to limited access to land management resources, a shrinking workforce, development pressures, climate change, and invasive species. These factors contribute to soil degradation, habitat loss, and declining forest productivity.

The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service plays a critical role in addressing these issues by promoting sustainable forestry, soil and water conservation, and climate resilience. Through education, workshops, and partnerships with organizations like the Kentucky Division of Forestry and USDA NRCS, Extension helps landowners, farmers, and residents adopt best practices that protect the environment while supporting local livelihoods. In 2023, 150 individuals participated in forestry or natural resource programs, increasing their awareness of wildlife, forestry, and conservation issues.

Youth engagement is also central to this effort. 4-H environmental science programs build environmental literacy and leadership skills, aligning with statewide goals in workforce development and natural resource education. In Whitley County, over 400 youth participated in environmental and natural resource education through 4-H programs. Hands-on experiences—such as Forestry Field Days and water quality monitoring—equip young people to become informed, active stewards of the environment.

Despite ongoing challenges in infrastructure and access, Whitley County draws strength from its civic networks and cultural resources—including the arts—that foster resilience, creativity, and community identity. With over 70 community partnerships reported and 80+ volunteers contributing time to Extension-led initiatives, Whitley County benefits from strong local engagement. Sustained collaboration will be essential to preserving the county’s natural heritage for generations to come.

Long-Term Outcomes:

• Economic, social, physical, or environmental situations that will change because individuals or communities adopted new (or improved existing) actions, practices, and behaviors.
• 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. 
• Participants are making natural dyes on their own.
• Participants make changes in their daily life that reduce the effects of climate change.
• Increase participation in Arts programming outside of the farmers market.
• Increase well-being and connectedness to community.
• 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.
• Youth will develop an interest and appreciation for the art.
• Youth will continue to create art at home and school
• Youth will make changes at home to reduce/reuse/recycle
• Youth will make natural plant dyed materials for everyday use.
• Youth will demonstrate necessary leadership, teamwork, and communication skills needed to be successful in the workplace.
• Youth participation in community involvement increases. 
• Youth will serve in leadership roles in their community.
• Youth will more effectively communicate, work with others, and contribute to driving change and shaping the future.
• The Small Farm Program encourages adopting new practices that support long-term success.
• Community engagement through the Small Farm Program promotes both personal and collective growth.
• The Small Farm Program fosters opportunities for leadership and future development.

Intermediate Outcomes:

• New or improved practices, behaviors, or choices will occur in participants or communities because of the knowledge or awareness they gained from their contact with Extension.
• Actively install and use resource monitoring technology to assist in data-driven decisions to monitor 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.
• Clients will 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.
• Increased participation in advanced plant dyeing classes and experimentation with new dying techniques
• Increasing knowledge and understanding of climate change and its effects.
• Increased participation in the Whitley County farmer’s markets.
• 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.
• Youth will increase social interactions with peers
• Youth will increase arts skills
• Youth will increase understanding of climate change and actions to take.
• Youth will practice teamwork, responsibility, communication, conflict resolution techniques, and problem-solving skills.
• Youth will plan and implement a service project.
• Participants in the Small Farm Program will begin applying new insights to guide decisions in areas such as beekeeping, gardening, livestock management and farm financial.
• The Small Farm Program will lead to increased engagement in educational and community-based activities—such as beekeeping, gardening, livestock, and language-accessible classes—promoting practical skills, participation from diverse audiences, and stronger local food systems.

Initial Outcomes:

• Increase the awareness of sustainable forest management practices, economic pressures and technological barriers facing woodland owners and other interested individuals.
• Increase knowledge and skills of individuals in both urban and rural settings to address immediate wildlife-related challenges and enhance biodiversity.
• Develop the skills and ability of Woodland owners and Ag producers to actively manage wildlife-related damage and nuisance.
• Develop emergency preparedness and response strategies focused on mitigating immediate damage from events such as floods and tornadoes.
• Increase understanding of Natural plant dying
• Increase environmental awareness
• Encourage connectedness within community
• Increase community vibrancy
• Youth will explore their spark in natural resources.
• Youth will gain knowledge and develop skills in natural resources and environmental sciences.
• Youth will understand how their actions and choices impact natural resources and the environment.
• Youth will set goals to become good stewards of natural resources.
• Youth will expand life and work readiness skills, gaining awareness of the diverse opportunities within the field of natural resources
• Youth identify personal strengths that contribute to leadership skill development (communication, teamwork, civic engagement).
• Youth successfully worked in a team environment to accomplish a task.
• Youth realize how their actions impact others.
• Increase awareness of natural dying possibilities in youth
• Increase environmental awareness in youth
• Increase arts exposure and skill development in youth
• Increase the awareness of substainable beekeeping practices.
• Increase awareness of agricultural practices for individuals from diverse cultural and language backgrounds.

• Increase awareness of basic skills in beekeeping, gardening, livestock care, and farm financial management.

Evaluation:

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 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: TBD

 

Outcome: Improved knowledge related to native plants and making natural dyes

Indicator:

• Number of individuals who reported increased knowledge native plants and making natural dyes

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration

 

Outcome: Improved knowledge related to Climate change

Indicator:

• Number of individuals who reported increased knowledge climate change issues and ways to combat it.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration

 

Outcome: Increase involvement within community

Indicator: 

• Number of participants who reported increase involvement community events.

Method: Self-reported surveys

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

 

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

Evaluation Method(s):
Post-workshop survey with Likert-scale questions on confidence, knowledge gain, and intent to take action; follow-up stories or focus groups 3–6 months later to document implementation

Timeline:
Initial evaluation at program conclusion; intermediate follow-up 3–6 months after workshop to capture preparedness actions taken

Outcome:

Participants gain practical knowledge through the Small Farm Program in areas such as beekeeping, gardening, livestock care, farm financial management, and language-accessible agriculture sessions.

Indicators:

        Number of participants who reported gaining useful information in beekeeping

        Number of participants who learned new techniques in gardening.

        Number of participants who improved their understanding of livestock care.

        Number of participants who reported increased knowledge in managing farm finances.

        Number of participants who benefited from language-accessible instruction.

Method: Survey (Self-Assessment of Learning)

Timeline: During program event

Learning Opportunities:

Audience: Adults

Project or Activity: Disaster Readiness

Content or Curriculum: FCS State Developed Curriculum - In the Face of Disaster Toolkit

Inputs: Extension Facilities, FCS Agent led

Date: Ongoing

 

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: 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, Curriculum, 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: 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

 

Audience: General Public/Artists, Schools, Homeschool, Seniors, Field Days

Project or Activity: Natural Plant Dyeing Program

Content or Curriculum: Community Arts, University, Artists

Inputs: Community Arts Agent, Artists, Volunteers

Date: TBD 2026-2031

 

Audience: General Public, Families

Project or Activity: Earth Day Celebration

Content or Curriculum: Community Arts, University Of Kentucky, KSU, NRCS, Forest Service, State Parks,  Artists, Volunteers, Local organizations, etc.

Inputs: Community Arts Agent, All CES Programs

Date: April 22, 2026-2031

 

Audience: General Public, Youth and Families, Farmers

Project or Activity: Extension Arts Corner at the Whitley County Farmers Markets

Content or Curriculum: Art activities, Artist Demonstrations, Educational materials

Inputs: Artists, Volunteers, Community Arts Agent, Community Arts Assistant

Date: Summers-Tuesdays and Saturdays, Weekly, April-August 2026-31

 

Audience: General Public

Project or Activity: Community Honeybee Education and Awareness Programs

Content or Curriculum: Kentucky State University and University of Kentucky Extension Beekeeping Publications, Hands-on demonstrations in hive management, bee biology, and pollination, Educational content on value-added products (lip balm, candles, honey fudge) Integrated AG, Natural Resource, and Youth Curriculum materials

Inputs: Kentucky State University Small Farm Program, University of Kentucky Horticulture and Agriculture Agents, Beekeeper Volunteers and Local Beekeeping Associations, Community Partners (Libraries, Schools, Civic Organizations)

Date: Ongoing annually, 2026–2031

 

Audience: 4-Hers, Extension Professionals, Clientele

Project or Activity: Expressive Arts (Club/Group/Individual)

Content or Curriculum: 4-H Create Art Now, 4-H Get Started in Art, 4-H My Favorite Things, Elements of Design, 4-H Fiber Arts, 4-H Leathercraft, 4-H Photography (1,2,3), and 4-H Theatre Arts (1,2,3)

Inputs: 4-H Agent, Program Assistant, Volunteers, Teachers

Date: Ongoing

 

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: 4-H Camp and Day Camp

Content or Curriculum: Curriculum is sourced from Shop 4-H, the Land Grant System and American Camp Association.

Inputs:  4-H Agent, Program Assistant, Volunteers, Teachers

Date: Yearly June and July

 

Audience: 4-Hers, Extension Professionals, Clientele

Project or Activity: Kentucky 4-H SET

Content or Curriculum: 4-H Approved Curriculum

Inputs:  4-H Agent, Program Assistant, Volunteers, Teachers

Date: Ongoing

Audience: General Public

Project or Activity: English to Spanish Program

Content or Curriculum: Curriculum variety of speakers covering different topics, including several from key agencies.

Inputs: Kentucky State University Specialist, University of Kentucky Specialist, Program Assistants, Volunteers, Kentucky Department of Ag, and USDA programs.

Date: Ongoing

Audience: General Public

Project or Activity: Kentucky State University Small Farm Conference Eastern KY Style

Content or Curriculum: Curriculum variety of speakers covering different topics, including several from key agencies.

Inputs: Kentucky State University Specialist, University of Kentucky Specialist, Program Assistants, Volunteers, Kentucky Department of Agriculture, USDA Programs.

Evaluation:

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 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: TBD

 

Outcome: Improved knowledge related to native plants and making natural dyes

Indicator:

• Number of individuals who reported increased knowledge native plants and making natural dyes

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration

 

Outcome: Improved knowledge related to Climate change

Indicator:

• Number of individuals who reported increased knowledge climate change issues and ways to combat it.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration

 

Outcome: Increase involvement within community

Indicator: 

• Number of participants who reported increase involvement community events.

Method: Self-reported surveys

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

 

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

Evaluation Method(s):
Post-workshop survey with Likert-scale questions on confidence, knowledge gain, and intent to take action; follow-up stories or focus groups 3–6 months later to document implementation

Timeline:
Initial evaluation at program conclusion; intermediate follow-up 3–6 months after workshop to capture preparedness actions taken

Outcome:

Participants gain practical knowledge through the Small Farm Program in areas such as beekeeping, gardening, livestock care, farm financial management, and language-accessible agriculture sessions.

Indicators:

        Number of participants who reported gaining useful information in beekeeping

        Number of participants who learned new techniques in gardening.

        Number of participants who improved their understanding of livestock care.

        Number of participants who reported increased knowledge in managing farm finances.

        Number of participants who benefited from language-accessible instruction.

Method: Survey (Self-Assessment of Learning)

Timeline: During program event