Eastern Kentucky has the highest food insecurity in the United States.  In Mason County, 2,790 individuals (16.2% of county population) are not sure where their next meal will come from. There is a steady increase in interest from clientele wanting to know how they can become more self-sufficient by growing their own food. Agriculture and horticulture agents in Eastern Kentucky have observed an increase in requests from small backyard fruit growers for guidance. In order to reach a large audience in the most efficient way possible, the District 1 Agriculture and Horticulture agents designated a committee to coordinate a series. 

The Mason County Extension Service and the other District 1 agents partnered with Horticulture Specialists Dr. Shawn Wright and Dr. John Strang, Plant and Soil Science Specialist Dr. Nicole Gauthier, Entomology Specialist Dr. Ric Bessin and Forestry Specialist Matt Springer and Morehead State University to present a backyard small fruit production series that consists of three on-line programs addressing general production, small fruit disease and insects, and tree fruits.In addition, partnering with Morehead State University at Browning’s Orchard to offer hands-on pruning demonstrations. 

The series was designed for small scale producers that use their produce for personal use. Average attendance during the 3 part web series was 74 individuals, of those Mason County had an average of 8 participants. Those in attendance ranged from beginner to more advanced producers. 1 individual stated that she didn’t currently have any plants growing but, planned to have some this coming growing season. 49 individuals attended the final workshop.

Throughout the web-based series, participants recognized the importance of soil testing and soil preparation which allowed them to select the best site for planting (97%).  They discovered new information about diseases that impact small fruits and created a treatment plan (95%).  The participants identified small fruit insects, matched control methods, and created a plan for treatment (95%).  

During the workshop, each person grated two apple trees, observed proper pruning techniques while discussing insect and disease control.  The day included a field trip to Morehead State University Browning Orchard where participants practiced pruning under the supervision of specialist and agents and appraised the wildlife controls used at the site.