Success StoryRobin Ridge Farm Conservation Practice Implementation
Robin Ridge Farm Conservation Practice Implementation
Author: Amanda Gumbert
Planning Unit: Agriculture and Natural Resources Programs
Major Program: Water and Soil Quality and Conservation
Outcome: Intermediate Outcome
After participating in the UK CES-led farmer leadership training Tap Your Potential Ben Robin (Robin Ridge Farms) recognized erosion issues on the farm that might be impacting the quality of nearby Hinkston Creek. UK Extension specialists partnered with the Bourbon County Conservation District to help Ben identify and install appropriate conservation practices to address erosion issues on the farm. Practices installed included rocked gateways, a heavy use area pad, and regrading and critical area planting. Ben also participated in the One Good Idea Shop Talks as a farmer pitcher to gain advice from other farmers on successful rotational grazing strategies. After his participation in the Shop Talks Ben implemented an intense rotational grazing system for his beef herd. To showcase the success of the conservation practices in use at Robin Ridge Farms, Ben and his family hosted a field day for 24 participants in May 2025. Field day attendees owned or managed a total of 4,315 acres (range: 16.5-1600) with operations reported as beef cattle, sheep/goat, fruit/vegetable, hay, horses, and trees. A post field day evaluation was distributed and respondents indicated the following: 86% agreed or strongly agreed that they learned about a new conservation practice that they will adopt on land they manage; 86% agreed they feel more knowledgeable about on-farm conservation practices; 86% agreed or strongly agreed that the practices shared were profitable enough for them to adopt on land they manage; 100% agreed or strongly agreed that the event increased their confidence to implement conservation practices and that attending the event helped them connect with other people who are implementing or advising on conservation practices. Respondents commented that the most important benefits of attending the event were networking with other producers and learning that a lot can be done to help with erosion and conservation.
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