With the increase in costs of fertilize, herbicides, and seeds, Knox County Farmers were concerned about total costs of supplies they needed for maximum production in pastures, hayfields, and crop fields.

Through training, Knox County Agriculture Agent learned how to use a GPS and measure fields to get precise acres thus decreasing the chance of miscalculations of field acreage and increased costs. By using the GPS to calculate acreage, farmers recognized that they had fields that were overestimated in acreage which led to increased costs, too little use of fertilize, and less production. 

With precise acres now been attained and completed soil sampling, farmers have reported an increased production while lowering total costs. Some farmers have reported a saving of up to $125 per acre on production, or gaining 3-4 extra roll of hay per acre on hay ground alone. 

As a result of the program:

1. ANR Agent has shown 12 farmers this spring-summer and fall how to use GPS to estimate acreage.
2. 110 soil samplings have been completed since the spring
3. 8 of 12 farmers have reported increased savings on production