Adair County is known for having a strong beef industry.  In 2021, Kentucky National Ag Statistics estimated a total cattle inventory for Adair County at 39,500.  Whether it’s someone who grew up on a beef farm or a newcomer of Adair County, each year there are numerous clientele who reach out to the Adair County Cooperative Extension Service for assistance in developing their beef operation.

Seeing the need for beginning level education in beef production, the Adair County Cooperative Extension Service developed the “Beef Basics” program to provide hands-on and classroom educational opportunities.

In 2022, Beef Basics was offered for the fourth time since its development.  An enrollment of 15 farmers participated in 5 educational session covering various elements of beef production.  Participants were engaged via hands-on learning while handling cattle, participated in a farm tour of a previous Beef Basics participant, and were able to discuss questions and challenges of beef production in a classroom environment.

Participants evaluated the program and reported an average gain of knowledge of 8.7 on a 1-10 scale with 10 representing the most significant gain of knowledge.  Participants who currently had cattle were asked how many practices learned from Beef Basics they had implemented.  50% reported implanted 3-5 practices, 17% reported implementing 1-2 practices, and 33% reported implanting 5 or more practices. When participant were asked what elements of Beef Basics benefited them most, common responses was forage/nutrition and developing networks with fellow farmers.

Beef Basics will continued to be offered by the Adair County Cooperative Extension Service every 2-3 years to assist those who wish develop their beef operation.