Success StoryNorthern Kentucky Specialty Crops Conference addresses New Crops, Season Extension



Northern Kentucky Specialty Crops Conference addresses New Crops, Season Extension

Author: David Koester

Planning Unit: Campbell County CES

Major Program: Farmer's Markets

Plan of Work: Increasing Profits in Commercial Horticulture Enterprises

Outcome: Initial Outcome

We have had the goal of increasing the product mix and lengthening the sales season of our Specialty Crop producers. Many areas of the country with much shorter growing seasons than Northern Kentucky have year round markets and provide customers with a more diverse product mix.

To address this issue and make growers and potential growers aware  of the many possibilities a Specialty Crop Conference was planned with Northern Kentucky Agriculture and Horticulture agents as well as University of Kentucky specialists, KSU specialists and The Kentucky Department of Agriculture.

167 people from 3 states attended the conference held at the Boone County Enrichment Center.

24 topics ranging from Industrial Hemp production to Growing Mushrooms for fresh market sales were offered. Participants could select from several tracks and attend one or a series of seminars.

50% of those responding to a survey responded they will incorporate management strategies and will expand their crop, livestock mix. 90% of the respondents plan to use the Center for Crop Diversification while 3 participants plan to start a CSA.

95% want to have another conference and many want an Organic Crop Production session.









Stories by David Koester


Garden Structures for Special Needs Clientele

about 5 years ago by David Koester

A priority identified by the Boone County Horticulture Advisory Council was providing gardening oppo... Read More


Grafting

about 5 years ago by David Koester

For ten years fruit grafting classes have been provided to residents in the tri-state area of Northe... Read More


Stories by Campbell County CES


Junior Master Gardener/Learn, Grow, Eat Go:  The Campbell County Approach

Junior Master Gardener/Learn, Grow, Eat Go: The Campbell County Approach

about 5 years ago by Ronda Rex

In Kentucky, at least one out of every three adults (34.2%) and children (37.1%) are overweight or o... Read More


Jr. Master Gardener Program

Jr. Master Gardener Program

about 5 years ago by Sarah Imbus

Junior Master Gardener/Learn Grow Eat Go:The Campbell County ApproachIn Kentucky, at least one out o... Read More