Directed by the needs assessment from our leadership, Extension has been involved with home gardeners and small scale producers. We strive to educate them about horticultural crops and their production. Several educational programs were offered to those interested in home and commercial vegetable production. Because of these efforts, thirty-one individuals are producing vegetable crops for the first time this year. Most are low income producers. These individuals are producing fruits and vegetables for their families use and marketing the excess. These producers have reported saving to their families in the amount of $8,000 from being able to provide fresh vegetables verses purchasing them. In addition, twelve producers are growing small fruits (brambles, strawberries, and blueberries) for the first time this year.

The Floyd County Farmers Market officially opened in May 2018 for its eighth year. The market provides another outlet for the sale of excess produce. The market also serves as an outlet for many of our small scale farmers. The market had a 25% increase in its membership this year which helps to provide produce, meats and baked goods to their customers. The members hope growth will continue.

The market has moved this year to a new location. The site is the future location of the Prestonsburg Community Center. Construction on the center will be completed in three phases. The Prestonsburg Mayor and City Council has included a permanent Farmer’s Market structure in their plans for the third phase. This structure will include water, electricity and a cool storage area which will benefits the producers.

These programs, activities and collaborative efforts show the participants that many agricultural operations can be successful on small parcels of land. These individuals stated that Extension was responsible for making their projects successful. They thanked Extension for preparing and teaching them the skills needed to succeed.