In February 2023, Extension agriculture agents from southwestern Kentucky and north-central Tennessee hosted the ninth Kentucky/Tennessee Grain Conference in Russellville, KY.  Agents from Todd and Logan Counties in Kentucky; and Montgomery and Robertson Counties in Tennessee cooperated in this effort, along with specialists from both states.

The program included a grain market update and presentations on controlling herbicide-resistant weeds, grain storage options, severe weather impacts on agriculture, and wildlife issues and management in row crops.

Approximately 160 people participated in the Conference, with the majority being farmers.  Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) CEU credits and Commercial Pesticide CEU credits were provided for industry professionals that needed them.  

Sixty-seven attendees completed the program evaluation.  Of those who did the evaluation, 66% said that attending the Grain Conference will increase their farm income, with an estimated total economic impact of about $500,000.  According to the survey, the severe weather and wildlife issues topics were the “most enjoyed” presentations.

This Grain Conference is one of three activities where Extension agents in this area of Kentucky and Tennessee cooperate on major educational or marketing activities.  Other “interstate” programs are the Certified Preconditioned for Health (CPH) Sales held at the Kentucky/Tennessee Livestock Market in Guthrie, KY; and the TN/KY Tobacco Expo held each year in Springfield, Tennessee.