FARMER 101
Extension Education
Tony Glover
COUNTY EXTENSION COORDINATOR
ALABAMA COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SYSTEM
CULLMAN
Abstract
Recent agricultural statistics show that Cullman County has 2,465 farms and 55% of these are part time farms. The Extension office has experienced a steadily increasing number of requests to assist new and transitioning farms. A survey was conducted using Survey Monkey to determine interest level in a series of classes to address the most requested information needs. The pre-class survey indicated that 74% of interested people were not currently farming for profit but desired to do so.
There were a total of 8 sessions in the initial series. Over 50 participants attended the series and 65% attended between 6 and 8 sessions. The class content met or exceeded expectations of 96% of participants. When asked if they felt more confident going forward in developing and implementing their farm plan 92% either agreed or strongly agreed. 100% felt more confident in knowing where to get reliable information. 96% said they would recommend the course to others. 81% expected to increase profitability on their farm as a result of what they had learned during the course.
The immediate post class survey also indicated a high interest in other subjects and an interest in advanced classes in small livestock and farm accounting which were subsequently conducted. A one year follow up survey to measure long term impacts found an increase in profitability by 89% of respondents with an average increase of almost 40%. Also, 39% of respondents had started a new enterprise while 68% intend to start one within the next year.
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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: T.A. Glover
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Glover, T. COUNTY EXTENSION COORDINATOR, ALABAMA COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SYSTEM, Alabama, 35055