A Small Farm plot.

               Since 2014 Bizzell Bluff Farms has utilized research-based information provided by Cooperative Extension to help make operational decisions for their farm. Mr. Rushing started his small farm operation with a you pick blueberry patch as a fun extra source of income.  Livingston ANR helped with publications, variety selection that best suited the area and soil testing. Not only has Mr. Rushing’s hobby blueberry patch grown into a working commercial blueberry patch but has thrived and expanded. In 2016 our client wanted to do even more with his small plot of land and operation. He again looked to Extension for help to accomplish his goals.

               Livingston county ANR sat down with Bizzell Bluff farms to help define what direction the operation wanted to go in. First the farm added black berries and raspberries. Livingston ANR helped with soil test for fertility and PH test. The second step was the farm added a bee operation to sell honey and help with pollination of their crops. Livingston ANR helped with this aspect of his operation with our monthly beekeepers’ meetings. The third step was the farm added a maple syrup operation. Livingston ANR helped the farm develop a marketing plan that has worked well.

               Now it is 2022 and Bizzell Bluff Farm is going strong. Their operation has changed to better meet the needs and wants of their clientele. The farm has sifted to more Blackberry, honey, and Maple syrup production. For the second year in a row Bizzell Bluff Farms will participate in the Kentucky Maple Day. Our client’s attempts to diversify his operation has resulted in a fun and profitable small farm operation that continues to evolve.