SWIFT AND FAR-REACHING EXTENSION EFFORTS TO HELP VERMONT FARMERS AFFECTED BY TROPICAL STORM IRENE
Extension Education
Betsy Greene
Extension Horse Specialist
University of Arizona
Tucson
Abstract
\r\n The wrath of Tropical Storm Irene was sudden and devastating to Vermont farmers and residents in August, 2011. Roads and bridges washed out, isolating many Vermont communities for weeks. Businesses, homes, farm structures and land were swept away and unceremoniously deposited further downstream. Many farmers had no physical, electronic, or phone access to their farms for hours, days, or weeks after the storm. UVM Extension professionals were on the scene from the beginning and extension, state, and volunteer efforts/resources were pooled to facilitate assistance with paperwork, animal/crop safety, and cleanup efforts on affected farms. It was necessary to utilize all avenues to disseminate information about potential health risks ranging from mycotoxins in corn crops to telling volunteers to use N95 respirators and gloves due to potential toxins in silt during clean up. By partnering with local and state agencies to coordinate/collaborate on both “message” and “efforts”; accurate information and assistance was provided to farmers (and the public) regarding potential risks and requirements with flood-affected land, crops, and animals. Communication mechanisms included on-site consultations, phone, email, print, television shows, video clips, Facebook, and Twitter for broadest distribution of information. Because this was a “disaster response” type extension program, traditional evaluation methodology was not incorporated, however, one participant arranged to purchase additional feed at a value of $65,000 because of contaminated crop information gleaned from the field-side workshop. He hadn’t even considered this option prior to attending. The activities outlined in this poster were conducted through the equine extension program.
\r\n
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
A poster file has not been provided
Authors: E.A. Greene
-
Greene, E. Extension Equine Specialist, University of Vermont, Vermont, 05405