Describe the Issue or Situation.

According to the National Agricultural Statistics Service of the United States Department of Agriculture, Kentucky has close to 70,000 farms in operation. These farms contribute to the livelihood and economy of every county across the Commonwealth. To celebrate the agriculture industry, National Agriculture (Ag) Week is observed in March. In 2025, the University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food, and Environment hosted National Ag Week on campus and across the state through the Cooperative Extension Service. 

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

National Ag Week is an opportunity for community members to participate in events, learn about agriculture, and support local farmers and producers. A National Ag Week planning committee was established with representatives from each discipline of Extension including Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR), Horticulture, Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS), Community Economic Development, and 4-H. The committee planned activities on campus and developed a menu of programming options for Extension agents to offer in their community to celebrate National Ag Week at the county level. Extension agents offered a variety of programming including farm tours, Plate it up! Kentucky Proud recipe demonstrations, agriculture-related book readings to children, seed and plant giveaways, fairs, and more. 

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

Over the course of a week, Extension agents from all 4 disciplines including 30 FCS, 91 ANR, 42 4-H, and 3 CED agents participated with representation from all of the 120 counties in the state. Collaborations within Extension offices were leveraged, including partnerships between ANR and FCS agents. In addition, collaboration with community partners, like the Farm Bureau, local schools, and even the Kentucky Department of Agriculture provided greater opportunities for communities. Through the efforts of the planning committee, Extension Agents and assistants, community partners, National Ag Week promotions, events, and activities, a reported total of 22,941 individuals were directly reached across the state. With the help of social media, communication platforms including TV and radio, and print media like local newspapers, National Ag Week was celebrated indirectly by a reported total of 218,032 individuals.   

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.

National Ag Week is a time to recognize the vital role agriculture plays in every Kentuckian’s life. While often associated with a single discipline, agriculture touches all aspects of our communities. This year, the UK Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food, and Environment celebrated National Ag Week on campus and across the state with efforts of Extension agents from each discipline. Collectively, 240,973 people across the state participated in some way. These efforts strengthen community ties and highlight the enduring value of agriculture in Kentucky.