There are many agricultural producers in Monroe County that are required to obtain various certifications or attend trainings in order to effectively manage their enterprises. The UK Cooperative Extension Service Agents assist local producers by providing the necessary trainings and educational programs. The Monroe Co. Ag & Natural Resources Agent was able to provide in-person assistance during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Approximately 280 individuals participated in the County Agriculture Investment Program. This cost-share program is administered by the Monroe Co. Conservation District. All of them attended an in-person informational meeting. All of them were able to view the Mammoth Cave Virtual Field Day video in order to satisfy their educational requirement. The CAIP program provided over $458,000 in agricultural investment monies to the participants. Eighty-two of the CAIP participants also had to become Beef Quality & Care Assurance certified. The reporting agent held three in-person programs to train and certify them.

The agent also held five in-person training sessions for 34 producers to obtain or renew their Private Pesticide Applicator certifications. Twelve tobacco producers were assisted with their GAP certifications. Sixteen vendors were certified for the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program and the Women, Infants, and Children Program. The SFMNP and WIC programs will inject over $27,000 into our local farmers’ markets.

Master Loggers were given the opportunity to attend a one-day session to obtain their needed CEU’s. This live broadcast was provided by UK Forestry personnel, and the Monroe Co. office served as one of the host sites. Six Master Loggers attended and were able to maintain their certification without having to travel a long distance as they had in the past. They were very appreciative of this local training opportunity.

The trainings and educational programs provided by the Extension Service allows producers to operate their farms and businesses more efficiently; provide fresh and local produce to consumers; and help them protect the environment.