The University of Kentucky Center for Crop Diversification reports that Kentucky, an active adapter of high tunnel production systems, comprises over 2.8 million ft ²  of production capacity across more than 1,200 tunnels. High tunnel production systems allow growres to facilitate growing season extension as well as provide supplemental field production for small scale producers. In partnership with the University of Kentucky Extension Entomology department, McCracken County Agent for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Samantha Anderson, and Mary Hank, McCracken County Horticulture Technician, partnered with two local high tunnel growers to conduct research related to biological control in high tunnel systems.  

As part of the research both Anderson and Hank completed five houses of educational courses focusing on the basics of biological control, implementation and the advantages and disadvantages of the practices. In conjunction with local producers, Anderson and Hank produced videos detailed pest identification, release of biological controls and the advantages and disadvantages of the methods. 

Both producers described their appreciation for the research opportunities provided through Cooperative Extension Service programming. The research resulted in strengthening existing relationships between the McCracken County Cooperative Extension Service and local producers and the dissemination of new agronomic practices to key stakeholders.