The problem – 

According to the Kentucky Forest Sector Economic Contribution Report the total Kentucky forest sector contribution was $18.6 billion in 2022 with an estimated $12.6 billion in direct contributions.  According to the 2022 Census of Agriculture, Carter County has 33,127 acres of woodlands, which is more acres than Carter County has devoted to cropland or pastureland.    

The educational program response – 

Annually, a Tree Farmer of the Year Field Day is held to: 

1. Recognize the outstanding achievements of a Kentucky woodland owner in sustainable woodland management.
2. Provide educational opportunities for woodland owners on best practices for forest health and productivity.
3. Foster a network among woodland owners and forestry professionals.
4. Increase awareness of available resources for woodland management.

The 2023 Tree Farmer of the Year Field Day was held at Lynn Johnson’s farm in Olive Hill.  

The participants/target audience – 

Fifty-one people from across the state attended the event.  Together the participants own over 7,500 acres of woodlands.

Other partners (if applicable) – 

Kentucky Division of Forestry, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, Kentucky Natural Resources Conservation Service, Kentucky Tree Farm Committee, UK Extension Forestry 

Program impact or participant response – 

The Tree Farmer of the Year Field Day received high praise from participants. Here are some key metrics that demonstrate the event's impact:

• Increased knowledge: The guided farm tour highlighted implemented strategies like timber stand improvement, wildlife habitat creation, and sustainable harvesting techniques.
• Inspired action: Many attendees plan to improve their own woodlands after seeing the positive results achieved by the Tree Farmer of the Year.
• Enhanced networking: The event fosters a sense of community among woodland owners, allowing them to connect with experts, share experiences, and learn from each other.