Success StoryConnecting Gardeners to Local Resources



Connecting Gardeners to Local Resources

Author: Kelly Jackson

Planning Unit: Christian County CES

Major Program: Horticulture, Consumer and Home

Plan of Work: Nurturing the development of local economic and community growth.

Outcome: Initial Outcome

The Christian County 2030 Vision Plan, prepared by the local Chamber of Commerce, is a plan to guide improvements in the community and bring together multiple community partners in a unified approach to achieve progress. One goal of the vision plan is to seek economic growth through more retail opportunities. Another goal is to enhance recreational opportunities with a low user cost to the average citizen. Utilizing Master Gardener volunteers, the Cooperative Extension Service in Christian County developed and hosted a Garden and Outdoor Living EXPO in April 2024 to provide more retail opportunities to local and regional horticulture product and service providers in a free, family-friendly atmosphere. Short educational classes were offered on the second day. Over 800 local residents interacted with 30 vendors during the 2-day EXPO. A survey of vendors indicated sales totaling nearly $17,000 during the event. Prospective sales estimates by vendors totaled $104,000. Vendors said the EXPO was a valuable tool to help reach their customers. Exit surveys of 381 EXPO attendees indicated 68% spent money at the Expo, and comments included “Speakers were great” and “Love coming to this event”.






Stories by Kelly Jackson


Expanding Recreational Opportunities for the County

about 1 years ago by Kelly Jackson

The Christian County 2030 Vision Plan, prepared by the local Chamber of Commerce, is a plan to guide... Read More


New Market for Cut Flowers

about 1 years ago by Kelly Jackson

While most of the local educational efforts extended to growers focus on produce and greenhouse prod... Read More


Stories by Christian County CES


Supporting Migrant families

Supporting Migrant families

about 1 years ago by Matthew Futrell

Supporting Migrant FamiliesAs the unemployment rate across the nation continues to fall it has prove... Read More


Tobacco GAP ensures quality products and consumer confidence

Tobacco GAP ensures quality products and consumer confidence

about 1 years ago by Matthew Futrell

Tobacco GAP ensures quality products and consumer confidenceThe tobacco industry has been under a lo... Read More