Agriculture Development Program
Author: Nicholas Carter
Planning Unit: College of Agriculture
Major Program: Sustainable Agriculture
Plan of Work: Community and Economic Development
Outcome: Intermediate Outcome
Since the passing of the tobacco buyout, tobacco production has declined significantly. Cooperative Extension Service was given the responsibility to create and facilitate the 9 members Ag Development Council. The council met and gathered facts from all areas of agriculture in Fayette County and created a comprehensive plan for agriculture. This council has reviewed and approved applications from various groups or individuals for improvement in area of needs highlighted in the comprehensive plan. With a cooperative effort of Fayette County Conservation District, Fayette County Cattlemen’s Association, County Agriculture Development Council and Fayette County Extension Service many programs have been carried out in a smooth and effective manner. Fayette County Extension Service provided resources in planning, organizing, educating, and implementation. As of June 30, 2019 over 5,700,000 of grants to Fayette County farmers who are looking at new enterprises to replace the loss of tobacco income. Each one of these grants has required a matching 50 % cost share amount which means over 10,600,000 has been invested back into the Agriculture economy in Fayette County. Educational sessions for each one of these programs are being conducted by the Cooperative Extension Service and the University Of Kentucky College Of Agriculture. This has led to an increased use of the services of the Fayette County Extension Service. Results from these programs include a 20% increase in weaning weights and better overall health of calves from producers participating in the cattle programs. Over 1,900 Acres of hay and pasture land have been improved through the Forage Improvement Program which have increased yield by a minimum of 30% with the use of improved varieties and fertility. A building has been constructed at the Master station Park to facilitate livestock events and other agriculture type programs for farmers in Fayette and surrounding Counties. This has led to an increased awareness to the importance of Agriculture in Fayette County through many Agriculture events being held during the Lexington Lions Club Bluegrass Fair. Without this facility this would not be possible. This program continues to be an important asset to the Agriculture Community in Fayette County.