UK’s Ag Ecosystems Science Student Tour part of the River Counties

On August 16, 2021, Nine students, Dr. David McNear, and Dr. Carrie Knott visited Fulton and Hickman County Row Crop Producers to gain a better understanding of Row Crop Production in the River Counties.  This trip was part of a new course being offered in Agronomy, that consisted of touring several areas in Kentucky along with visiting the experiment stations.

During their visit, the Fulton County Agriculture and Natural Resources agent set up tours for four farm visits along with a sponsored lunch at one of the farms.  During each of the farm visits, the students learned about various production techniques, technology, soil characteristics of upland vs bottomland farming, poultry and hog manure management, etc.  During lunch the students had an opportunity to talk with the of the producers and ag retailers.

After the group returned back to campus, the Fulton County Extension ANR agent received the following from Dr. McNear in an email: 

I am writing to thank you for the time you took to organize and lead the tour of Fulton Co. for the UK Agricultural Ecosystem Sciences students.  Having now had some time to reflect on the experience I can sincerely say that our time in Fulton Co. and the surrounding area was a highlight of the field experience.  The student commented multiple times about the unique aspects of the farming operations in that part of the state and how generous you and the various producers were with their time.  It had a significant lasting impression on them (and me).  

There are potential plans for additional trip from these classes to return in the future.