The typical farm in Northern Kentucky is a small family operation with limited agricultural profitability. Many of the farm operators have less than ten years of experience managing a farm operation as a business. Though urban development has decreased farm sizes, it has opened potential for local food market expansion.

In an effort to better serve these new beginning farm business operators the Campbell, Kenton, and Pendleton County extension agents conducted a Farm Start series that focused on business planning, diversifying operations, and whole farm planning.

The Farm Start series began with identifying resources and agencies who provide technical assistance. At the first session participants completed a producer survey, which indicated that 33% were utilizing extension programs for the first time. This ten session program provided participants an overview of land resources and land use options. Topics included evaluating land and natural resources, farm enterprise selection, whole farm management, legal issues, estate planning, record keeping, business planning, marketing, and farm safety. The 10 educational programs included 42 participants, of which 24 completed at least eight sessions. The producers who participated in the program indicated an increase in knowledge and developed business planning tools such as business plans, estate plans, and mission statements.

As a result of the program agents are collaborating with other agencies such as University of Kentucky Agricultural Economists, the Northern Kentucky Area Development District, Ohio Valley Food Connections, and Local Chefs to connect farmers with potential markets.