Farming is rated the sixth most dangerous occupation, beating out powerline workers and steelworkers (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).  There is also a high concentration of mental illness among farmers, including depression. These conditions are often stress-induced and can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Building on last year’s success, Extension engaged additional community organizations for the USDA “Raising Hope – Supporting Healthy Lives on Kentucky Farms” campaign. These financial partners included Morgan County Soil Conservation District, Farm Bureau, Licking Valley Rural Electric Cooperative and Standafer Builders with 4-H and FFA Youth also contributing leadership and service skills.

The campaign consisted of thank you cards for farmers, a county proclamation signed by judge executive and “Farmer Appreciation” Dinner and Safety Awareness program.  The event was attended by 161 farmers and family members. In addition to a free dinner, there were safety demonstrations conducted by the Ky Dept of Agriculture and the local electric cooperative, as well as a presentation on mental health by the “Raising Hope” state director.  The venue was beautifully decorated by Morgan County Master Gardeners.  4-H and FFA teens assisted with thank you cards, registration, meal serving and a presentation to open the meeting.  The evening closed with photo opportunities and door prizes to send folks home with a smile after the discussion of difficult topics.

Comments on Facebook and to Extension Staff demonstrated that the farmers were very appreciative of the recognition. They also expressed how much they enjoyed and learned from the event. One person commented that seeing and hearing the youth involvement gave him new hope about the future of farming in Morgan County.