Author: Michelle Simon
Planning Unit: Campbell County CES
Major Program: Farm Management, Economics and Policy
Plan of Work: Improving Economics & Sustainability of Agriculture & Farm Management
Outcome: Long-Term Outcome
The corona virus pandemic forced many families into disarray when the food supply chain was disrupted and many grocery stores had empty shelves. This situation drove these families to Boone County Extension seeking knowledge in raising their own food and living more sustainably without relying on big box stores. In response to this situation, Boone County ANR Agent partnered with the other northern Kentucky agriculture agents to offer the Modern Homesteading Series. This five session virtual series focused on producing fruits and vegetables, poultry, sheep, goats, hogs, rabbits, beef and dairy cattle and also how to preserve these foods. During these sessions 43 participants learned how to produce each of these species and products on a small scale for family consumption. Topics discussed included nutrition, breeding, facility design and economic considerations. When surveyed, these families reported they had the information and tools necessary to raise their own food economically and live more sustainably off their homesteads as a result of the Modern Homesteading Series. “My wife and I have really enjoyed the homesteading sessions, coordinated by Michelle Simon with different speakers. The material is engaging and very helpful to novices to farming, which is exactly what my wife and I are. It is such a treat to have this learning available in Boone County; I can’t believe its free! Thank you for this excellent program.”
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