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Contact Information

Craig Wood, Ph.D
Acting Associate Dean & Director
UK Cooperative Extension Service

S-107 Ag. Science Center North Lexington, KY 40546-0091

+1 (859) 257-4302

craig.wood@uky.edu

Impacts

Contact Information

Craig Wood, Ph.D
Acting Associate Dean & Director
UK Cooperative Extension Service

S-107 Ag. Science Center North Lexington, KY 40546-0091

+1 (859) 257-4302

craig.wood@uky.edu




Fiscal Year:
Jul 1, 2024 - Jun 30, 2025


Success StoryCommunity Collaboration Advances Eastern Kentucky



Community Collaboration Advances Eastern Kentucky

Author: Shad Baker

Planning Unit: Letcher County CES

Major Program: Community Strategic Planning

Plan of Work: Healthy People, Healthy Economy

Outcome: Long-Term Outcome

The challenge of transitioning the economy and resources of Eastern Kentucky to a sustainable and vibrant scene; one that accentuates the abundant natural resources and the creativity and work-ethic of a people rooted in the rugged mountains is worthy of the state's land-grant and outreach arm, the UK Cooperative Extension Service. In partnership with local business, healthcare, education and political leaders, the Letcher County Extension Service has sought to more fully capture the potential. The group, known as the East Kentucky Heritage Foundation has specifically targeted tourism development through hiking, horse and bicycle trails, road-side amenities to attract travelers to select venues, and the creation of a world-class shooting facility on a former mine sight. So far, $3.5 million in grant funding has been secured for the facility, the former rail-line through Whitesburg has begun the conversion to a bike and walking trail, and overlooks along Pine Mountain have been enhanced through multiple local donations. Extension was specifically sought out for our community engagement and well-known trail development background. When we all collectively push in the same direction, great things happen.






Stories by Shad Baker


Sheep Predator Control

about 7 days ago by Shad Baker

Sheep producers in our region face significant losses due to predation from coyotes and dogs. To add... Read More


Master Gardeners Program Launched in Letcher County

about 7 days ago by Shad Baker

The Letcher County Extension Office recently completed the first half of its Kentucky Master Gardene... Read More


Stories by Letcher County CES


Strong Bones for Life: Prevent Osteoporosis

about 14 days ago by Nanette Banks

Describe the Issue or Situation. Osteoporosis, or low bone mass, affects about 1 in 10 people aged 5... Read More


Community Service Project- Trash Pickup

about 20 days ago by Crystal Smith

The Community Service Project took place on June 20, 2025. The goal was to clean up as much as possi... Read More