The winter of 2018-19 set records for the amount of rainfall.  In Adair County, the rainfall was especially felt by livestock producers.  Excessive rainfall led to extensive damage of pasture fields and zeroed hay inventories on many livestock operations.  The impact was not only felt by livestock, but was also a detriment to our water quality as excessive amounts of mud and erosion were observed on livestock farms.   As a response, the Adair County Cooperative Extension Service hosted a series of educational programs to address the struggles livestock producers were facing.

In December, a winter feeding workshop was conducted and taught with assistance from UK engineer Dr. Stephen Higgins.  An assortment of hay feeding methods were discussed that not only reduced pasture damage but also improved animal performance while increased labor efficiency.  Many of the projects are cost-share eligible through NRCS programs. 24 producers attended the program.

In March, a forage workshop was taught by the Extension Agent discussing pasture repair options including perennials, annuals, and warm season crops.   31 producers attended the program.

In late March, a series of farm tours were held showcasing different winter feeding strategies for livestock.  These included bale grazing, compost-bedded pack barns, hay feeding pads, and a dairy facility retro-fitted to a hay feeding facility.  28 producers attended the tours.

Short-term impact of these efforts through follow-up interviews with participants revealed that 6 producers visited with NRCS on hay feeding structure projects and 25 producers are in process or planning to seed pastures with improved forages.