Success StoryForage/Soil Management



Forage/Soil Management

Author: Garrard Coffey

Planning Unit: Rockcastle County CES

Major Program: Forages

Plan of Work: Improve Livestock Production and Management Skills

Outcome: Initial Outcome

The fall and winter of 2018-19 saw heavy amounts of rain in the state of Kentucky.  Cattleman across the state had issues with excessive mud in feeding areas that cause problems ranging from animal health to soil health.   A series of programs was offered in Rockcastle county to help farmers combat the problems at hand as well help manage in the future.  Two University of Kentucky specialist, Dr. Jimmy Henning and Dr. Steve Higgins, and state NRCS grazing specialist Richard Bowling gave talks on reseeding damaged fields, constructing feeding areas to reduce damage to soils and pastures, and setting up rotational grazing.  A total of 44 individuals attended the sessions that were offered over a 3 week period.  Of the 44, all reported that they gained knowledge and they would apply to their cattle operations. I have worked individually with six farms that wanted more information and help implementing what they had learned during these sessions. Other farmers have used CAIP cost share money to help combat the problems they have encountered from reseeding damaged pastures to help with costs to implement rotational grazing. Also, I have helped 3 other farmers with information regarding the EQIP program through the soil conservation service.  This has been a very successful program for extension service and farmers of Rockcastle County.  






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