Clay County producers had the opportunity to participate in three of 11 investment areas through the County Agriculture Investment Program (CAIP) this program year.  Seventy-three producers did just that to increase net farm income, add value to their product and diversify their operations.  Clay County invested $260,504.94 in CAIP and with the producer share of the 50/50 cost-share program makes the total invested over $521,000 in our county.  While many producers target immediate needs with their investment, many producers are looking at their operations with a long term lens.  One such producer has been making investments over the past ten years using CAIP and has implemented several practices such as adding water to each paddock to implement intensive rotational grazing, high tensile wire fencing, and equipment to transport and store product for an online buying store were consumers can purchase vegetables, fruits and meat.  Another producer has invested in facilities for his beef operation and is able to feed his cattle in a dry area.  He has also invested in mechanized feeding and feed storage through CAIP.  Because of his investment over the past ten years, he is now producing a higher quality beef animal for sale.  The Clay County Agriculture ANR Agent is responsible for the educational requirement and has presented several classes to qualify producers to make them eligible to participate in the program and receive cost-share funds.  The Extension office works with KY Ketch, INC and the Clay County Agricultural Development Council to implement this program.