For all livestock producers especially beef cattle producers forages are the most expensive feed source to produce. Livestock represent the largest sector of agriculture in Green County. Hay being a crucial part of livestock systems, it is important that we minimize the amount of hay fed, while also producing and feeding high quality hay to lower our cost per head. 

Past participants of the Center of Kentucky Master Cattlemen program expressed the need of further education on hay production to local Extension Agents. In response, the Adair, Green, and Taylor County Cooperative Extension Service developed the Master Haymaker program consisting on seven sessions taught by UK Specialist focusing on producing high yielding and high quality hay. 

Thirty-two producers participated in the seven classroom sessions covering topics ranging from soil fertility, species and variety selection, weed control, storage, and equipment. Survey evaluations revealed that 96% of participants gained knowledge in the areas of variety selection, weed control, and nitrogen management. Additionally, 88% of participants utilized web soil survey to gather information on management of their soils and 92% applied fertilizer in accordance to soil test recommendations.