Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable)
To address these issues, the Owen County Cooperative Extension Service hosted the KY Fence and Agricultural Law Updates program on October 22, 2024. The program featured an engaging and informative presentation by a legal expert from the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. Topics included Kentucky’s fence law, liability for escaped livestock, boundary disputes, agreements for fence maintenance, and adverse possession. Attendees gained practical insights into navigating agricultural legal challenges, mitigating risk, and fostering better relationships with neighbors.

The program emphasized proactive strategies, such as maintaining clear communication with neighbors, ensuring proper insurance coverage, and staying diligent about fence maintenance. The session also provided step-by-step guidance on legal recourse for fence-related disputes, including court procedures and documentation requirements.

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience
The program attracted 29 participants, including farmers, landowners, livestock producers, and agricultural stakeholders. Attendees represented diverse farming operations, from small livestock producers to larger cattle operations. Despite the session lasting three hours, participants remained engaged and actively contributed to discussions, asking questions specific to their operations and situations.

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact
The program had a profound impact on attendees, equipping them with actionable knowledge to address fence law issues and prevent costly disputes. Feedback highlighted the session's relevance and practical value, with participants noting that the insights shared would directly influence their farming and land management practices.

Several attendees reported they had brought their neighbors to the program or took extra handouts to give to their neighbors. Others reported  plans view their fence maintenance practices to mitigate risk. The clarity provided on legal processes and neighbor agreements inspired some to initiate boundary discussions to avoid future conflicts. Additionally, a few attendees expressed interest in attending follow-up sessions to deepen their understanding of agricultural laws and risk management strategies.

By improving knowledge of Kentucky’s fence law and fostering proactive approaches to legal challenges, the program contributed to better decision-making, reduced risk of litigation, and strengthened community relations among agricultural stakeholders. This program directly aligns with the UK Extension Service's mission to support farmers through education and resource accessibility, ensuring sustainable agricultural practices for the community.