Seven years ago, Magoffin County ANR Agent, Courtney Jenkins, began working with a direct-to-consumer farmer with a desire to increase his farm income through commercial fruit and vegetable production.

The agent first worked with the farmer through the local Grow Appalachia program, providing technical assistance and resources for him to be successful in his venture, as well as through the efforts of establishing the county’s first-ever farmers’ market. Later, the agent worked with him to develop a plan for a sustainable, profitable operation, as well as guided him toward the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program for a high tunnel, a great season extension structure available to farmers in the region.

The farmer was approved for his first high tunnel in 2018. After getting the structure completed, he immediately expanded his vegetable production into the tunnel, creating a longer season and better quality produce, resulting in increased sales at the Magoffin County Farmers’ Market.

In 2021, the farmer had some health issues that kept him from being able to sell at the market, but with the help of Extension, he was able to identify a volunteer to sell his produce at the market each market day. 

Now, four years after being approved for the first high tunnel, the farmer just recently got approved for the second and will begin construction on it this fall. He hopes to continue to grow his business and become even more productive and profitable. 

During a recent farm visit with Grow Appalachia, the farmer stated, "If it hadn't been for Courtney, I would not have any of this. She helped me get the things I needed to be successful, including walking me through the process of getting my first high tunnel. All of the little things she did helped out in a BIG way."