The problem Crittenden County Cattlemen's Association hadn't met in several years so to kick off a reorganizational meeting they partnered with Crittenden County Extension.

The educational program response The group met with County ANR Agent Dee Heimgartner and a local veterinarian. During discussions the Kentucky Beef Network's Eden Shale Farm was brought up. Several were utilizing designs from the farm and UK Extension Specialist Dr. Steve Higgins. It was decided at that meeting that ANR Agent Heimgartner would organize a trip to visit the farm to learn more about the facilities and practices utilized.

The participants/target audience The trip was focused on Crittenden County cattle producers but in organizing the trip, Crittenden County was able to join Pendleton and Grant County cattle producers on the same tour at Eden Shale.

Other partners (if applicable) The agent was able to work with Kentucky Beef Network for the Eden Shale tour, Bluegrass Stockyards in Lexington for a tour and UKY Beef Research Farm Manager at the Oran Little Research Farm in Versailles for a tour.

Program impact or participant response. Program participants were able to see first hand some management options of solar powered water systems that some Crittenden County producers have in place but got new ideas for a filtration system for the waterer. Another participant is utilizing hay feeding structures and came away from the tour with new ideas to improve how the structures can benefit the time and reduce mud on his farm.