The Casey County Extension Service was approached by a representative of Tarter Farm and Ranch Equipment with an idea for a joint education program. It was noted that many people purchase farm equipment without considering what would work best for their farm operations and instead just guessing. This tactic of course resulting in the farm equipment not working as well as the farmer would expect. The agriculture agents from Casey, Pulaski, and Russell Counties all got together with the Tarter representative to plan a "tri-county" program. 

In January, Pulaski County held a Winter Hay Feeding Program where attendees learned about different types hay feeders for livestock and the reasons for their use in various scenarios. Dr. Steve Higgins also talked to attendees about the importance of proper feeding in the winter and different ways to do such. 

Following in February, Casey County held a program titled Cattle Handling Facilities where there were over 80 attendees. Participants not only learned about the various types of handling equipment, but designing their own facilities to meet their operation needs. Dr. Morgan Hayes taught and led a discussion on choosing handling equipment for your farm. Lastly, each participant had the opportunity to participate in BQCA training and receive their certification, as a result 40 people received their Beef and Quality Care Assurance Certification.

For the last leg of the Tri-County Livestock Series, Russell County hosted a Small Ruminant Handling Facilities course in March where Dr. Beth Johnson, DVM talked about nutrition and facilities for small ruminants. 

At each of these classes participants were able to get a hands-on experience with the equipment being discussed as Tarter Farm & Ranch Equipment brought along pieces to help with teaching. 

As a result of this program many attendees have reached out to agents interested in designing or re-designing handling facilities for their operations, and purchasing new and proper handling equipment.