Kentucky agriculture and natural resources (ANR) and horticulture (Hort) county Extension agents report that more than 80% of their time is spent assisting homeowners. While inquiries for homeowners can vary greatly, often the most challenging for agents are related to tree health. Questions can require knowledge of plant health, plant diseases, insects, and abiotic issues, as well as the ability to assess the basic risk of structural failure of trees. Extension professionals in the Department of Plant Pathology and Forestry support agents by providing consultations through email exchanges, phone discussions, and the Plant Disease Diagnostic Laboratory. Due to the numerous agent inquiries related to tree health topics, as well as agents’ direct requests for this type of training program, a need for an agent training in the area of tree health was identified.

In 2019, an agent in-service workshop was conducted by Extension professionals in the Departments of Plant Pathology, Forestry, Entomology, and Horticulture. This full day agent program consisted of interactive presentations on tree disease identification, insect pest identification, tree risk assessment, and introduction to new technological tools. One session included an experienced agent’s approach  to addressing tree health questions. A hands-on site visit experience provided agents the opportunity to learn skills and techniques for assessing tree health concerns in the field. Agents also had the opportunity to utilize the knowledge and skills gained through a series of case studies. Attendees were provided numerous handouts and reference materials to utilize in interactions with homeowners.  

Fifteen county agents participated in the training. Pre- and post-surveys showed an increase in knowledge of site assessment (37%), tree disease identification (42%), insect pest identification (28%), tree risk assessment (42%), and technological tools (104%). Confidence was rated as either good or excellent in the areas of conducting a tree-related site visit (93%), submitting tree samples to the diagnostic laboratory (93%), responding to tree-related questions (93%), and leading tree health-related programs (60%) after participation in the program. A majority of agents indicated that as a result of completing the training they were highly likely to provide advice on tree health issues via email or phone calls (67% of participating agents) and conduct a tree-related site visit (73%). Fifty three percent of agents stated they were either somewhat likely or highly likely to lead a tree health-related program or develop a new tree health-related program within their counties. Agents indicated that the information learned would be communicated through field visits and during programming and presenting. Feedback from agents indicated that the program was beneficial. One participant stated that this training was “One of the most information in-services I have attended as an agent. Outdoor portion was great.” Additional sessions of this training are being considered for 2020.