In 2016, Paul and Melita Knapper were the first farm to be enrolled in the RCPP Overgrazing and Soil Degradation on KY Horse Farms. This program brings EQIP funds to horse farm to implement resource conservation practices and to improve the profitability and sustainability of small horse farms. The Knappers received more than $30,000 to convert 30 acres from row crops to perennial pasture, therefore increases the amount of pasture they have and their ability to rotate horses. 

When visited in July of 2020, the Knappers believed they had a 40% increase in the gross income of the farm because these additional pastures allowed them to take on more horses for clients. One 5 acre paddock alone housed 3 yearlings, bringing in $28 per day for each horse. An additional 5 acres not included in the RCPP program are now being converted as well, because “we’ve learned how to overseed pastures, we know how to do it now.” Additionally, the Knappers have been using perennial ryegrass to maintain cover on small paddocks that are under constant pressure and are unable to sustain perennial cover.  One recurring problem was with a lack of forage in the small, heavily used paddocks close to the barn, leading to excessive mud in winter and early spring. Attempts to establish permanent forage in these paddocks was not successful. At the recommendation of UK Equine Pasture Evaluation Program, the farm began a program of smoothing and overseeding these paddocks with perennial ryegrass in the fall. This practice resulted in quick establishment of forage which helped mitigate the mud issues in these paddocks.

Personnel involved: Ray Smith, Krista Lea, Jimmy Henning, Chris Teutsch, Bob Coleman, Michelle Arnold, Linda McClanahan, Nick Carter, Clay Stamm, Keenan Bishop, Steve Musen, Adam Probst, Michelle Simon.