Farmers are facing unprecedented challenges with increasing input costs, volatile markets and weather changes.  Every tool is needed in their arsenal to help address these issues.  Often times, small changes in management practices can help pay unexpected dividends.  Individual stories from producers this past year have proven once again the value of Extension education, services and demonstrations.

Examples include:

*a Master Cattlemen participant changing immunization programs resulting in 100% calving rate post 30 days;

* a cattle/forage producer extending his grazing season by 36 days with a four pasture rotational system and single tire waterer based on a demonstration project he observed at the Extension Educational Farm;

*a long time hay producer conducting soil sampling for the first time was admittedly shocked to realize he had wasted thousands of dollars on fertilizer costs, but is appreciative of his new savings during tough times; and

*a reluctant cattle farmer with gardening skills joining the local Farmers Market with the agent’s encouragement and successfully gaining an additional source of income.

Extension does make a difference by educating people to solve problems, make decisions, and embrace change.