Describe the Issue or Situation.

LaRue County has an approximately thirteen thousand beef cows grazing fifth teen thousand acres.  Cash receipts totaling six million dollars of revenue can be attributed to beef cattle and forage production in the county.  One of the factors affecting profitability of the cow calf is winter feeding cost and costs associated with the waste of stored forages.  Estimates range from $150-250 per head to feed a cow for 120 days in the winter based on quantity and quality of the stored forage provided.  According to the recent survey of cooperative extension clientele the UKY Needs Assessment  showed that producers were concerned about profitability and sustainability of their operations rated a 4.2 of 5 and one of the top priorities.  

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

 In an effort to emphasize the importance to limit the waste of storage forages the ANR agent held a field day at to exhibit how different storage options affect the quality and quantity on a per bale basis.  The hosting farm for the field day provided examples of three storages systems so the attendees could see firsthand the differences.  As a part of the program the agent also provided the producers with research-based information and publications that supported the benefits of each system.  The field day was in partnership with the LaRue County Cattleman's Association.

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

87 members of the LaRue County Cattleman's Association were in attendance along with 7 junior members ages 11-18.  

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.

At the conclusion of the program exit interviews were held where producers shared their thoughts and asked questions regarding the content.  The real impact has been evaluated through the County Ag Investment Program (CAIP) were cost share funds have been used by the conservation district to purchase hay wrappers as well as three producers choosing to renovate existing structures or construct hay storage facilities on their farms.