Grain crops have emerged as an important part of the agriculture industry in Mercer and surrounding counties.  ANR agents in these counties partner together to host the Area Grain Meeting each year.  Around 80 producers attended the meeting.  Survey results found that 87% of respondents gained knowledge.  Survey responses also indicated attending this meeting has improved profitability in the past by increasing yield, improving pest control practices and better crop management.  In addition ANR agents from around KY partner together to conduct the corn silage variety trials in 3 locations each year.  For the second year Mercer is one of the host locations.  Agents work together to select locations, secure varieties, plant silage, harvest plots and produce the report that is used by producers across the state to make variety selection decisions.