Success StoryEstill County Farm Flood Relief



Estill County Farm Flood Relief

Author: Eric Baker

Planning Unit: Estill County CES

Major Program: Agriculture and Extension Leadership Development

Plan of Work: Marketing, Diversifying, and Managing Local Agriculture

Outcome: Initial Outcome

After three major winter storms in late February and heavy rains through March 1st, Estill County experienced historic flooding along the Kentucky River and tributaries. Flood stage topped 41.1 feet which shattered the longstanding 1939 record of 39.4 feet. Access to the City of Irvine was lost due to flooded roads. At least 200 homes sustained damage and hundreds of acres of farms were flooded. Farm losses included livestock, equipment, vehicles, hay, fences, and other farm supplies. In addition, farmland was covered by debris and heavy silt. Farmers were in need of numerous supplies and many donations were secured by various local and statewide groups. In response, University of Kentuck Cooperative Extension ANR agent for Estill County coordinated with other Extension agents and local producers to get donated hay to the impacted farms. Additionally, the ANR agent coordinated hauling and distribution of a large trailer load of feed, fencing supplies, large protein tubs, dogfood, grass seed, t-posts, and miscellaneous supplies. Twenty-five farmers affected by flooding were allowed to select donated items according to need. The first load of donations was successfully distributed. An additional load of 32 bags of field grass seed was donated and will be distributed at the optimal seeding time for cool season forages. All those receiving donated items were very appreciative. Since flooding effects are long term, procuring relief items are planned throughout the next year. 






Stories by Estill County CES


Ten Estill County Youth receive Champion Ribbons at 2021 Kentucky State Fair

Ten Estill County Youth receive Champion Ribbons at 2021 Kentucky State Fair

about 2 years ago by Taylor Miles

Photo: The Estill County 4-H display of the youths 4-H projects going to the 2021 Kentucky State Fai... Read More


Teen's teach Cloverbuds all about Geology

Teen's teach Cloverbuds all about Geology

about 2 years ago by Taylor Miles

Photo: Cloverbud Josiah Conrad works on molding his clay to create his own fossil.For the 2021-2022 ... Read More