Success StoryLiving on a Few Acres



Living on a Few Acres

Author: Erica Spurgeon

Planning Unit: Pulaski County CES

Major Program: Small Farm Management

Plan of Work: Increasing Farm Profitability- NEW

Outcome: Intermediate Outcome

The Living on a Few Acres Farm Conference brought together 52 participants from five different counties across Kentucky, fostering an exchange of knowledge and ideas on sustainable farming practices. UK Cooperative Extension Agents from Pulaski, McCreary, Russell, and Casey counties organized and led a series of classes that delved into various aspects of small-scale agriculture, including soils management, beekeeping, vegetable gardening, poultry, rabbits for meat production, small ruminant care, USDA small farm assistance, and mushroom cultivation.

Key Highlights:

USDA Farm Service Agency Resources: Participants were introduced to the wealth of resources and support services offered by the USDA Farm Service Agency. This session provided attendees with essential tools for navigating the complexities of federal agricultural programs. 

Soils for Success: Participants gained valuable insights into soil health management, learning about soil composition, fertility enhancement techniques, and sustainable soil management practices. Understanding the importance of soil health laid a solid foundation for successful farming endeavors.

Beginning Beekeeping: This class provided a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of beekeeping, covering topics such as hive management, bee behavior, honey production, and disease prevention. Attendees left equipped with the knowledge and confidence to embark on their beekeeping journey.

Vegetable Gardening: From seed to harvest, participants learned the essential techniques for cultivating a thriving vegetable garden on limited acreage. Topics included site selection, soil preparation, crop selection, pest management, and organic gardening principles, empowering attendees to grow their own nutritious produce.

Poultry, Rabbits, and Small Ruminants: These sessions offered practical guidance on raising various livestock species suitable for small-scale farming operations. Attendees gained insights into housing, feeding, breeding, and health management practices, enabling them to establish successful and sustainable animal husbandry enterprises.

Mushroom Inoculation: Attendees learned about different mushroom varieties, cultivation techniques, substrate preparation, and harvesting methods, opening up new avenues for diversification and profitability on their farms.

Participant Feedback:

Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude for the opportunity to learn from Extension and area professionals, and network with like-minded individuals. Attendees appreciated the practical, hands-on approach of the classes and left the conference prepared to implement new practices on their own farms. 






Stories by Erica Spurgeon


Pulaski County Teens Celebrate the 100th Annual KY 4-H Teen Conference

Pulaski County Teens Celebrate the 100th Annual KY 4-H Teen Conference

about 4 months ago by Erica Spurgeon

For many young people, the decision on what to do after high school is confusing. Most students have... Read More


4-H Summit 2024

4-H Summit 2024

about 4 months ago by Erica Spurgeon

Middle school is a crucial period for youth development, marked by significant physical, cognitive, ... Read More


Stories by Pulaski County CES


Pulaski County 4-H Camp 2024

Pulaski County 4-H Camp 2024

about 4 months ago by Abigail Roy

There is an increased need for youth to develop cooperation, communication, leadership, and social s... Read More


Pulaski County Delegates Attend 4-H Teen Conference in Lexington Kentucky

Pulaski County Delegates Attend 4-H Teen Conference in Lexington Kentucky

about 4 months ago by Abigail Roy

The 100th Annual Kentucky 4-H Teen Conference took place at the University of Kentucky from June 11t... Read More


Stories by Small Farm Management


"Kentucky First Farm" Program Helps Beginning Farmers Find Their Way

"Kentucky First Farm" Program Helps Beginning Farmers Find Their Way

about 3 months ago by Nathan Rider

Beginning farmers, market gardeners, and landowners frequently find themselves overwhelmed by all of... Read More


 Navigating Kentucky's Heirs Property Training On A Regional Level, Train the Trainer event

Navigating Kentucky's Heirs Property Training On A Regional Level, Train the Trainer event

about 9 months ago by Kendal Bowman

On December 8th, 2023, Kendal Bowman, Owen County Ag Agent, partnered with Irma Johnson Kentucky Sta... Read More