Author: David Davis
Planning Unit: Clark County CES
Major Program: Commercial Horticulture
Plan of Work: Horticulture, Livestock, Forages, Agriculture
Outcome: Initial Outcome
Over the past 8 years, Clark County Extension Service has implemented various programs to assist fruit and vegetable farmers. Previous efforts have included various black plastic mulch demonstrations for vegetable and strawberry production, season extension technology demonstrations, a small scale market garden mentor program, various “classroom” course offerings, tours, and more. In follow up surveys from each of those programs, accessing suitable new small scale wholesale markets for supplemental sales was a common need indicated by producers. In addition, Clark County CES was approached by Clark County Public Schools for assistance in connecting with local farmers that could supply locally grown fruits and vegetables. Local fruits and vegetables were desired because they are fresh, taste good to students, and are very nutritious. In addition, local farmers could visit the cafeteria to showcase their products. Children would be able to associate their food, learn about how it was produced, and meet the farmer that produced it face to face. Clark County CES Agent for Agriculture and Natural Resources began meeting with Becky Lowry, Nutrition Director for Clark County Schools, to plan a Clark County Farm to School Program. Three needs were identified that had to be addressed before starting the program. Farmers had to be identified, educated about school system purchasing protocol, and farmers had to be assisted with crop planning to make sure harvested produce would be available when school was in session. After several planning meetings, a list of potential crops, and standard operating procedures for purchasing from farmers was developed. An informational meeting with farmers was held. Farmers were reluctant to commit to grow for the school system because of the small quantity of produce that was desired, and the uncertainty that delivery cost and time to deliver to each school would lead to a profit. Only 1 farmer responded with interest to participating in the program. To overcome the obstacles for farmers, Clark County CES, and Clark County Public Schools partnered with the Kentucky Horticulture Council to apply for a USDA Producer Engagement Grant. This $7,000 grant would cover the cost of hiring a delivery driver for 2 years to pick up food from the farmers, and deliver it to each school destination. Excess funds were appropriated toward “shared use” packaging for farmers participating in the Clark County Farm to School Program. The grant was approved, and another 9 farmers committed to growing fruits and vegetable for the local school system. The first food deliveries were made to Clark County Schools in May 2019 with the delivery of Clark County grown strawberries to one of the Elementary Schools which were received with joy! In the fall of 2019, deliveries of freshly harvested Clark County grown vegetables will be made to every school in the Clark County School District. This would not be possible without the cooperation between Clark County CES, Clark County Public Schools, Clark County farmers, and the assistance rendered from the Kentucky Horticulture Council.
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