Do we make an impact when we have educational activities like field days?  First consider that impact can be defined as “to have an effect on, or to influence” (Merriam-Webster 2012). While we can define it, the challenge can be to measure or appreciate the impact that may have occurred. Recently, an equine field day was held that focused on farm management practices. Partners for the field day included the host farm, Dr. Bob Coleman (Equine Extension Specialist), Dr. Morgan Hayes (Ag Engineering Extension Specialist), and Linda McClanahan (Mercer County ANR agent).

At the field day, the topics on pasture, fencing and composting were given to a very engaged audience. The questions on all topics were good and the conversations active. However, we question if any of that information had an impact; and in one instance it did. Following the compost presentation, Dr. Morgan Hayes was approached to see if there was any opportunity for further discussions on composting. The possibility of a farm visit was offered to discuss what that farm was attempting to accomplish and troubleshoot problems.  

The follow-up visit included Drs. Hayes and Coleman along with Linda McClanahan. The farm has developed a unique composting system that includes an aeration system and the opportunity to add water to the composting material. While the bedding type on this farm was different than what was showcased at the field day, the information regarding the need to check carbon:nitrogen ratios, water, and oxygen was taken back to the farm. During the farm visit, there was the opportunity to discuss with the farm manager the areas that they were doing a good job of and help with how to add nitrogen as well as possibly a different way to ensure the moisture content was reasonable. One take away from the field day that the manager did discuss was how they now added water to the stall muck during the cleaning of stalls. They realized from information at the field day that their stall muck was dry and needed more moisture.

The takeaway: so many who attend extension education activities are like this farm manager - looking to improve operations or at least knowing that what they are doing is reasonable. Sometimes the impact is letting someone know that what they are doing has them on the right track.