Describe the Issue or Situation.  

Several local livestock farmers have started selling meat through a closed grocery store turned vendor mall.

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable). 

Marion & Co. is a vendor mall that is located in a closed grocery store. A local grass fed beef producer started working with Marion & Co. to sell their beef through the store and form a joint effort with other producers to sell local meat of all types. There are six different family farms selling a variety of beef, pork, chicken, and goat through the local vendor mall along with two other locally grown products of vegetables and grain. The Crittenden County ANR agent worked with the vendor mall and the local meat producers to host a Meat Your Farmer event at the vendor mall. UK meat scientist Dr. Greg Rentfro gave a presentation to consumers on meat cutting. Each local farmer was invited to talk about their farm and the products they raise. Program attendees had the chance to shop the local meat market after the presentations. The Crittenden County 4-H Livestock Club youth were also in attendance. 

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience. 

There were 38 total program attendees with 11 youth in attendance. 

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact. Please note that the outcomes statement must use evaluation data to describe the change(s) that occurred in individuals, groups, families, businesses, or in the community because of the program/outreach.    

Attendees were able to converse with local meat producers and learn where the meat comes from increasing their knowledge in locally sourced protein. Participants also learned about meat cutting and different ways to utilize a ribeye, which the backyard grill masters appreciated. This program also brought consumers into a local business that supports a total of 8 local farms that are selling products to their neighbors.