In Jessamine County and around the country, the agricultural economy is suffering through a down cycle of low commodity prices and high input costs. As restaurants, Hotels and Schools have closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the situation has got even more difficult because of the loss of markets and resulting decline in farm income. It is understood that in order to farming operations to remain in operation, farm managers must make every effort to reduce operating expenses and maximize income.

In light of the current economic crisis in the farming community, a Farm Management Strategies for Improved Decision Making class was planned and conducted by the Jessamine County Extension Office. Dr. Jordan Shockley, U.K. Agriculture Economy Extension Specialist, conducted the class with 19 members of the Jessamine County farming community in attendance. This training provided an overview of various topics impacting farm profitability including developing a business plan, assessing the financial performance on the farm, understanding costs of production and resources currently available within the U.K. Agriculture Economy Department.