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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, 2019 - Jun 30, 2020


Success StoryFarm to Table



Farm to Table

Author: M. Elizabeth Coots

Planning Unit: Shelby County CES

Major Program: Accessing Nutritious Foods (general)

Plan of Work: Unrelated to a specified County Plan of Work

Outcome: Initial Outcome

Farms are an essential and diverse part of Kentucky’s economy, contributing billions of dollars each year across the State. In Woodford County alone, agriculture and the businesses that support it are responsible for one out of three jobs and $565 million in annual revenue. In an effort to promote agriculture, local farms, and producers in the County, the Woodford County Cooperative Extension Service hosted the first annual Woodford County Farm to Table dinner.  The dinner was made possible by a grant from the Kentucky Proud Farm to Fork program which seeks to increase awareness of the local food movement, as well as sponsorships from local businesses. This locally sourced, four course meal was created and served by renowned Woodford County Chef, Ouita Michel. Almost 90% of the produce and meat for the event was sourced from Woodford County farms. Nearly $1300 went back to these farms.  Some of the farmers were invited to the dinner to speak about the importance of supporting local farms and food. Other guest speakers included agriculture commissioner, Ryan Quarles, Chef Ouita Michel, and dinner sponsors. 4-H youth volunteers helped serve the meal and proceeds from the event supported the local Wooford County Food Pantry. The event sold out at 100 tickets in less than two weeks and participants all had very enthusiastic verbal feedback. The farmers that attended the event had an excellent networking opportunity and stated that they felt “really encouraged by it, and talked about plans for next year, and about even expanding” their operation. Plans are underway for the 2018 Farm to Table dinner and attendance will be increased to 150 participants.






Stories by M. Elizabeth Coots


Family Garden & Cooking Kit Giveaways

about 4 years ago by M. Elizabeth Coots

The COVID-19 Pandemic demonstrates the fragility of our food system. Although plenty of food is bein... Read More


Field to Fork: Workshop and Agent Training

about 4 years ago by M. Elizabeth Coots

Preparing and cooking wild game is an important skill that hunters need to know about, and more than... Read More


Stories by Shelby County CES


Super Star Chef

about 4 years ago by Sheila Fawbush

The mission of the Super Star Chef series is to provide a fun and educational experience for youth t... Read More


Strengthening Extension's Outreach and Impact for Horse Owners

about 4 years ago by Corinne Belton

Educational programs that strengthen production skills of agriculture operations in Shelby County ar... Read More