Author: Samantha Anderson
Planning Unit: Entomology
Major Program: Farm Management, Economics and Policy
Plan of Work: McCracken County Commercial Agricultural Enterprises
Outcome: Intermediate Outcome
During the Small Diversified Farm Series, participants indicated a desire to tour a successful diversified farming operation. The host agents made this a reality. Agents form Marshall, Livingston, Calloway, Crittenden, McCracken, Trigg and Caldwell counties collaborated to host the first ever "Small Diversified Farm Field Day."
The field day was hosted by Trimble Farms in Caldwell County. The Trimble's Farm operation is very diverse. The family has experience selling fruits, vegetables, potted plants, vegetable transplants, eggs, baked goods, and meats. They market these goods in their roadside stand, at the local farmers market and on social media. This versatility made their farm the perfect location for the field day.
The Trimble's had the audience's full attention as they shared their struggles, mistakes, and successes on the farm. Daniel Becker, the Fruit and Vegetable Specialist, followed by offering his expertise on technical production related questions.
At the end of the program, the participants were surveyed. 100% of the surveyed individuals indicated:
- gaining knowledge in commercial horticulture.
- gaining knowledge of crop diversification
- the program will help them diversify their small farm, crop production, or add a new enterprise
- the willingness to consider adopting new techniques to extend the growing season
The host agents plan to use the participant's recommended programming suggestions as they move forward and continue the series.
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