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Contact Information

Craig Wood, Ph.D
Acting Associate Dean & Director
UK Cooperative Extension Service

S-107 Ag. Science Center North Lexington, KY 40546-0091

+1 (859) 257-4302

craig.wood@uky.edu

Impacts

Contact Information

Craig Wood, Ph.D
Acting Associate Dean & Director
UK Cooperative Extension Service

S-107 Ag. Science Center North Lexington, KY 40546-0091

+1 (859) 257-4302

craig.wood@uky.edu




Fiscal Year:
Jul 1, 2025 - Jun 30, 2026


Success StorySupporting the Specialty Crops Workforce with Translated Resources



Supporting the Specialty Crops Workforce with Translated Resources

Author: Nicole Gauthier

Planning Unit: Plant Pathology

Major Program: Plant Disease ID

Outcome: Initial Outcome

Over 3,500 orchards and vegetable farms in Kentucky span over 10,000 acres with an annual market value of nearly $82M. On both large and small farms, the agricultural workforce extends beyond English-language individuals.  In a survey of specialty crops (fruits, vegetables, ornamental) farmers, 88% indicated that they employ H2-A workers who require resources in Spanish.   While most pest management resources were focused on decision-makers, there were limited resources for non-English speakers. Survey respondents indicated a need for translated educational materials for the workforce.  In 2024-2025, the IPM Specialty Crops Working Group selected fact sheets and pest management guides for translation to Spanish.  During this period, a total of 18 disease-focused fact sheets (topics including bacterial blight, Botrytis gray mold, and southern blight) and 6 IPM scouting guides (including IPM scouting guides for common problems of cucurbits, solanaceous crops, and cole crops) were translated.  A new webpage was developed to accommodate these and upcoming resources.   Long term outcomes will include improved pest, disease, and weed management in orchards, vegetable farms, and nurseries.   A better educated workforce results in increased worker and consumer safety, higher yields, and improved career opportunities for workers.