Since we use these stories as a resource for multiple requests, don’t restrict Success Stories only to traditional Extension appointments and activities. Any accomplishments and efforts that are noteworthy may be included.

When new land owners purchase farms, or those wanting to begin farming in Jefferson County, the Extension Office is usually their first stop for information regarding nest steps. They are typically unaware of programs that may offer financial assistance, legal right of ways, fence laws, agriculture water quality responsibilities and many other topics that usually aren’t realized ‘until after the fact’. Having that general knowledge, the Ag agent has proven to be helpful for several new and existing farmers to the point of avoiding legal uses related to land use policy, zoning restrictions and other legal issues.

There are several grants, cost share programs, forgivable and low interest loans available to those interested in farming or improving an existing farm. Working with local resources such as Soil and Water Conservation District, Ag Credit Services;  State agencies include KDA’s  Kentucky Ag Development Fund offers several cost share options for purchasing land, equipment, infrastructure, livestock and supplies. At the federal level, USDA/NRCS offers grants and cost share programs for land and water improvement, wildlife enhancement and farm structures including high tunnels.

Beginning with an email or a phone conversation, the Ag agent can develop a brief understanding of what the new land owner or farmer is interested in. Most often, a detailed plan is developed by visiting the owner at the farm site. Here we can talk about and see the situation present and discuss how to move forward with production plans, funding opportunities and land use policy and other legal topics. From the Ag agent perspective, legal topics, accounting questions are deferred to the professionals.

Several new and beginning farmers have taken advantage of funding opportunities from local, state and federal agencies. Additionally, farming practices including new varieties of plants and animals through genetic improvement, increase marketing strategies has improved farm income and understanding and implementing new environment practices for farming has improved the quality of life for the farming family