The 2020-21 Ballard County CAIP Program is drawing to a close.  With initial funding of $375,000 from the Ballard County share of the Master Settlement Phase 1 Funds allowed 75 produces to participate in a 50% cost share program, where the producer can spend up to $10,000 and get $5,000 back in cost share funds.  The majority of the money has been used for Precision Ag and Grain handling equipment, but other programs like large and small animal and forage improvement have also seen much activity.

Covid protocols drastically reduced the ability to hold educational meetings for recipients of the money, a required activity.  Tom Miller, Ballard County ANR Agent, conducted numerous one on one meetings with producers to meet the educational requirement component of the funding.  While not as efficient as large grower meetings, the one on one meetings were probably more valuable to producers as they were able to discuss specific problems and get the most up to date research based answers for their individual concerns.  

Ballard County's use of these funds through the years have resulted in major improvements in grain production in the county while still balancing the need of smaller livestock producers and part time farmers.