In the spring of 2015 I collaborated with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture again to do the noxious weed spraying in hay and pasture fields in Whitley County. The demos were completed on 6 farms and approximately 110 acres were sprayed to demonstrate the correct use of chemical control on buttercup and thistle. The demos were used to show how to calibrate sprayers, applying the correct amount of chemical per acre, and safety when spraying.

There was a 20 acre increase in 2016 and there was has been a waiting list for this program in 2016 and 2017. Of the 19 farms that were sprayed all reported that they could tell a difference in how effective use of spraying can increase pasture production. The farms also reported a dramatic decrease in the amount of noxious weeds on their farms. One hundred percent of those who participated said that they would use this skill in the future on their farms. Participants of past programs are now using this skill on their farm without the help of KDA or extension funds. Over half from the last three years programs have reported they are using the skills and knowledge acquired in this program to better manage weeds in pasture fields. 

Currently, the 2018 growing season brought about new farmers interested in the noxious weed spraying program. The total farmers who have participated in this program since 2015 is 26 and out of these 26, 19 of them are using the skills on their own. New farmers learn the skill each year and increase their knowledge on eliminating these weeds in their pasture fields, thus increasing productivity of their land.