Grant Number: Livestock C9994681-10 Application Number: Stewardship BMP 10-09
Training and MOA Number: 128-110000957
Demonstration Project Period: Project November 1, 2010 – December 31, 2014
Submitted By:
University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food, and the Environment Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering 116 C.E. Barnhart Building Lexington, KY 40546-0276 (859) 218-4326
The Energy and Environment Cabinet (EEC) and the University of Kentucky do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, or disability. The EEC and the University of Kentucky will provide, on request, reasonable accommodations including auxiliary aids and services necessary to afford an individual with a disability an equal opportunity to participate in all services, programs and activities. To request materials in an alternative format, contact the Kentucky Division of Water, 14 Reilly Road, Frankfort, KY 40601 or call (502) 564-3410, or contact the University of Kentucky.
Funding for this project was provided in part by a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) through the Kentucky Division of Water, Nonpoint Source Section, to the University of Kentucky as authorized by the Clean Water Act Amendments of 1987, §319(h) Nonpoint Source Implementation Grant # C9994681-10. Mention of trade names or commercial products, if any, does not constitute endorsement. This document was printed on recycled paper. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
. Caldwell County Conservation District . Kentucky Division of Conservation . Kentucky Division of Water, Nonpoint Source Section . Kentucky Natural Resources Conservation Service . Kentucky State Veterinarian Office . University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food, and the Environment . University of Kentucky Research and Education Center TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND 8
II. . MATERIALS AND METHODS 10
III. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 18
IV. CONCLUSIONS 31
V. LITERATURE CITED 33
APPENDIX A: FINANCIAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE CLOSOUT 34
APPENDIX B: BMP IMPLEMENTATION PLAN 38
APPENDIX C: FLYERS 42
APPENDIX D: EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS 45
APPENDIX E: NEWS ARTICLES 48
LIST OF TABLES
TABLE 1. IMPLEMENTED BMPS AT THE UKREC AND CORRESPONDING ESTIMATED LOAD REDUCTIONS, EFFECTIVENESS, AND GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION 20
TABLE 2. NUMBER OF MASTER STOCKER AND MASTER CATTLEMEN PRESENTATIONS GIVEN OVER THE PROJECT PERIOD. 23
LIST OF FIGURES
FIGURE 1. THE PROJECT AREA AT THE UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY RESEARCH AND EDUCATION CENTER IN PRINCETON. 11
FIGURE 2. 14-DIGIT HYDROLOGIC UNIT CODE BASINS AND 303(D) LISTED STREAM SEGMENTS FOR THE PROJECT AREA. 12
FIGURE 3. LAND USE CLASSIFICATIONS FOR THE UKREC AND SURROUNDING AREA. 13
FIGURE 4. BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IMPLEMENTED AT THE UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY RESEARCH AND EDUCATION CENTER 19
FIGURE 5. BEFORE (LEFT) AND AFTER (RIGHT) INSTALLING HEAVY USE AREA PROTECTION AT THE UKREC. 21
FIGURE 6. STREAM CROSSING INSTALLED AT THE UKREC. 21
FIGURE 7. LIVESTOCK WERE EXCLUDED FROM A RIPARIAN AREA AT THE UKREC. 21
FIGURE 8. WATERING FACILITY INSTALLED AT THE UKREC. 22
FIGURE 9. WINDBREAK/CATTLE MOUND INSTALLED AT THE UKREC. 22
FIGURE 10. NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT CONCEPTS WERE PRESENTED DURING THE 2011 ALL-COMMODITY FIELD DAY, 24 FIGURE 11. THE WINTER FEEDING STRUCTURE BMP WAS DEMONSTRATED DURING THE 2012 BEEF BASH AT THE UKREC. 24
FIGURE 12. MORTALITY COMPOSTING WAS DEMONSTRATED DURING THE 2012 BEEF BASH AT THE UKREC. 25
FIGURE 13. NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT CONCEPTS WERE DEMONSTRATED DURING THE 2012 BEEF BASH AT THE UKREC. 25
FIGURE 14. A POSTER DISPLAY HIGHLIGHTED ALL THE BMPS IMPLEMENTED AS A RESULT OF THE PROJECT DURING THE 2012 BEEF BASH AT THE UKREC. 26
FIGURE 15. MASTER STOCKER (2012) PARTICIPANTS’ LEVEL OF AGREEMENT WITH THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT: THE SPEAKER WAS KNOWLEDGEABLE ABOUT ENVIRONMENTAL TOPICS RELATED TO AGRICULTURE. 26
FIGURE 16. MASTER STOCKER (2012) PARTICIPANTS’ LEVEL OF AGREEMENT WITH THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT: I GAINED VALUABLE INFORMATION ABOUT ENVIRONMENTAL TOPICS RELATED TO AGRICULTURE FROM THIS SESSION. 27
FIGURE 17. MASTER STOCKER (2012) PARTICIPANTS’ LEVEL OF AGREEMENT WITH THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT: THE INFORMATION PRESENTED IN THIS SESSION WAS USEFUL TO MY OPERATION. 27
FIGURE 18. MASTER STOCKER (2012) PARTICIPANTS’ LEVEL OF AGREEMENT WITH THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT: I PLAN TO PUT THIS NEW INFORMATION INTO PRACTICE ON MY FARM. 28 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The goal of this project was to promote and facilitate Best Management Practice (BMP) adoption by livestock producers. A BMP Implementation Plan was used to implement 20 unique BMPs at the University of Kentucky Research and Education Center (UKREC) in Princeton, Kentucky, giving western Kentucky a comparable demonstration area to the University of Kentucky North Farm in central Kentucky. These BMPs are designed to improve the profitability, functionality, and sustainability of Kentucky’s livestock producers. Installing these practices on the UKREC allows them to serve as demonstration sites for producer field days and tours for years to come. The Beef Bash is a popular, biennial field day held at the UKREC; during the period of this grant, nine (total) workshops (BMP demonstrations) were given at this event, reaching as many as 1,000 livestock producers. At the 2012 Beef Bash, six, one-hour workshops were given at two different locations that consisted of a presentation, poster displays, and handouts. For the 2014 Beef Bash, enough BMPs had been implemented on the farm to warrant a rolling bus tour to showcase the practices on the farm. Three, one-hour bus tours were conducted. In December 2014, the UKREC was used as a training opportunity for Division of Water Inspectors, exemplifying the versatility of this type of project to inform stakeholders on proper agricultural BMP implementation. In addition to the aforementioned formal tours, informal tours were also conducted for stakeholders interested in implementing practices. They used the implemented BMPs for ideas and designs for their individual farming operations.
In addition to demonstrations and workshops, other education and outreach efforts consisted of fact sheets (University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension publications) and presentations for producer groups. Six fact sheets were produced to feature the BMPs implemented at the UKREC and aid producers in BMP implementation. These publications were available to producers at all field days and presentations. Eighteen presentations were given to Master Cattlemen and Master Stocker program participants on agriculture’s impact on water quality and BMPs, with an emphasis on nutrient management. These participants were given a post-presentation survey to gauge the producers’ willingness to adapt their management based on the information they heard and to gauge presentation success. Survey results revealed that the vast majority of participants felt the presenter was knowledgeable (99.5%) and that the information was valuable (97%) and useful (92%). More importantly, 87.3% claimed that they planned to put the information into practice.
The Project Team believes that the amount of work accomplished with this project coupled with the survey results makes it very successful, but the more intangible and unmeasurable products of this project also indicate success. One-on-one conversations with producers revealed a positive shift in attitudes toward BMPs and water quality concerns, with the caveat that the producers attending these trainings were slightly more progressive and thus cooperative. Based on survey results and personal conversations, these producers want more education and outreach programs; in particular, face-to-face meetings and on-farm demonstrations are preferred. This would require the help of Extension agents, Conservation District technicians, and possibly the Natural Resources Conservation Service. The Project Team believes that a strong need remains for technical training of Conservation District personnel and Extension agents so that a uniform message is disseminated. Future project efforts should also focus on ways to target producers who do not regularly attend Extension programs. I. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND
The Environmental Protection Agency states that agriculture has a greater impact on stream and river contamination than any other nonpoint source (USEPA, 2009). In Kentucky, it is estimated that 25 percent of the impaired stream miles assessed are caused by pollution from livestock operations (USEPA, 2010). The Kentucky General Assembly passed the Kentucky Agriculture Water Quality Act (KAWQA) in 1994 with the aim of protecting surface and ground water resources from pollution caused by agricultural and silvicultural activities.
The KAWQA encourages producers to implement site-specific Best Management Practices (BMPs) and develop a management plan for their farm to minimize nonpoint source pollution. Choosing the appropriate BMPs and developing an effective management plan requires an understanding of the connection between agricultural activities and nonpoint source pollution. A recent (2012) statewide survey distributed to horse owners determined that many producers may not be equipped with the analytical skills or educational materials to draw the necessary connections between poor management practices, water quality, decreased fertility, livestock health, and environmental hazards (UK, 2012).
Even after 20 years of the KAWQA, many obstacles still remain that prevent producers from fully implementing BMPs. Categories of constraints to adoption behavior cited by previous researchers include landholder perspective, management practice characteristics, socio-economic structure of producer’s community, knowledge and training of agricultural professionals, and institutional restraints (Pannell et al., 2006). Additionally, livestock managers may be hesitant to adopt new management strategies because many of these practices are rarely associated with a rapid increase in profitability or productivity.
Other research suggests that increased implementation of conservation strategies is more reliant on the capacity of the incentive to compensate producers for anticipated losses and the extent to which information is shared than other factors (Baerenklau, 2005). However, many voluntary conservation initiatives quickly become incentive-dependent when producers are expected to take profitable pastureland out of production.
The Project Team recognized that there is a need for educational campaigns targeted toward producers and agricultural professionals that can begin to bridge the gap between environmental stewardship, water quality, and on-farm productivity. Bridging this gap would require BMP incentives to go beyond environmental objectives and provide economic returns. For example, winter-feeding of beef cattle represents one of the single largest expenses of that industry. The installation of winter feeding areas needs to be incorporated not only as a BMP that aids in reducing pollutant transport from frozen soils, but also a cost effective measure to preserve food quality and herd health.
Existing educational initiatives for livestock producers in Kentucky are usually species-specific and function on a county by county or conservation district level. Research has shown that Extension outreach campaigns that provide learning opportunities where participants are given a chance to experience educational inputs consistently result in higher learning gains and retention values (Richardson, 1994). To create such an educational setting, a variety of BMPs were implemented at
8 the University of Kentucky Research and Education Center. These BMPs were demonstrated at field days, such as the biennial Beef Bash, and discussed in Extension presentations.
Project Goal and Objectives
The long-term goal of this project was to promote and facilitate BMP adoption to reduce water pollution from livestock operations, as well as enhance profitability.
The projected consisted of three primary objectives:
1. Develop and demonstrate an integrated and comprehensive suite of BMPs for cattle and horse producers. . Potential BMPs examined as a part of this project include but are not limited to heavy traffic pads, manure stack pads, stream crossings, riparian treatment areas, dry lots, nutrient management planning, clean water diversion, mortality composting facilities, gully erosion structures, rotational and flash grazing, and winter and forest feeding. . Develop a KDOW approved BMP implementation plan. . Develop KDOW approved advertising material to promote field days/workshops. . Advertise public demonstration events.
2. Develop and disseminate educational and evaluative tools geared toward regional and site-specific BMP implementation strategies. . Presentation and educational materials developed and disseminated as part of this project include topics related to but not limited to heavy traffic pads, manure stack pads, stream crossings, riparian treatment areas, dry lots, nutrient management planning, clean water diversion, mortality composting facilities, gully erosion structures, rotational and flash grazing, and winter and forest feeding. . Develop KDOW approved educational material and evaluative tools.
3. Assess adoption rate and behavior changes resulting from project outreach campaign. . An evaluation form will be developed and distributed to assess producer opinions regarding presentations, subject matter, and willingness to adopt practices on their properties.
9 II. MATERIALS AND METHODS
To accomplish the project goal and objectives, the following materials and methods were used:
. BMP Implementation Plan . Program Advisory Committee . On-farm Demonstration Sites (BMPs) . Fact Sheets . Presentations . Workshops at Field Days . Program Evaluations
An explanation of materials and methods relevant to each topic follows the description of the project area.
Project Area
The University of Kentucky’s Research and Education Center (UKREC) in Princeton served as the project site for BMP implementation and demonstration (Figure 1). The UKREC was an ideal site for project efforts because of its longstanding history with demonstration and producer education, hosting a biyearly All-Commodity Field Day and Beef Bash and host to the Master Cattlemen Program, a popular Extension program. These events were the perfect venue for reaching as many as 500 visitors per event, representing nearly 30,000 head of cattle (2014 Beef Bash).
The project area is drained by three 14-digit Hydrologic Unit Code basins: Eddy Creek (05130205230010), Ward Creek (05140205070010), and Wiley Fork (05140205070021) (Figure 2). Assessed stream segments in the Eddy (13.0 – 15.7) and Ward Creek (5.1 to 10.3) watersheds were listed as impaired and in nonsupport of warm water aquatic habitat at the beginning of the project (KDOW, 2011). Project efforts focused on addressing the pollutants of concern such as nutrients, pathogens, and habitat modification caused by agricultural production, which is the primary land use of the project area and its watersheds (Figure 3).
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11 Figure 1. The project area at the University of Kentucky Research and Education Center in Princeton.
12 Figure 2. 14-digit Hydrologic Unit Code basins and 303(d) listed stream segments for the project area.
13 Figure 3. Land use classifications for the UKREC and surrounding area.
BMP Implementation Plan
A Kentucky Division of Water (KDOW) approved BMP Implementation Plan was used to guide decision-making and determine feasibility (Appendix B).
Program Advisory Committee
A Program Advisory Committee (PAC) was used to provide input on the design, development, and implementation of all components of the project by means of technical, professional, or judiciary assistance. The PAC met with project personnel soon after funds were awarded to provide guidance regarding on-farm demonstration sites and associated BMPs, presentation development, and fact sheets. Additional meetings were held as necessary to discuss workshop development, field day presentations, and program evaluation. All project materials developed as a result of this project were reviewed and approved by KDOW prior to release.
PAC Members
Agency Name: University of Kentucky Role/Contribution to Project: Cooperation and cost share Contact Person(s): Steve Workman
Agency Name: Division of Conservation Role/Contribution to Project: Cooperation and cost share Contact Person(s): Steve Coleman and Kim Richardson
Agency Name: Kentucky State Veterinarian, Kentucky Dept. of Agriculture Role/Contribution to Project: Field day and technical support Contact Person(s): Ed Hall and Robert Stout, DVM
Agency Name: Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Role/Contribution to Project: Technical support for BMP implementation Contact Person(s): Mike Clayton, Marvin Renfro, Gaylon King, Tibor Horvath, Mark Ferguson, Randy Smallwood, and Arthur Dunn
Agency Name: University of Kentucky Beef Integrated Resource Management Role/Contribution to Project: Contact Person(s): Les Anderson
Agency Name: University of Kentucky Research and Education Center Role/Contribution to Project: Consultants and land users Contact Person(s): Roy Burris and Kevin Laurent
On-Farm Demonstration Sites
Best management practices were implemented under the guidance of the NRCS. Private contractors as well as UKREC staff performed installation. These demonstration sites were used during the Beef Bash as well as for formal tours given to entities such as the Kentucky Division of Water.
14 Fact Sheets
Fact sheets, also known as Extension publications, were developed for the BMPs that were installed as a result of this project. These publications were produced using the University of Kentucky Agricultural Communications Services. Publications are available online (http://www2.ca.uky.edu/agcomm/pubs.asp) or can be found at Conservation District or Extension offices. Publications were also made available at demonstration sites, field days, and presentations.
Presentations
PowerPoint presentations were the primary media for presentations. Presentations covered topics such as design considerations, implementation and installation methods, economic factors, and environmental enhancements of BMPs. Project personnel worked with the Master Cattleman Program, Master Stocker Program, and a variety of Equine Initiatives within the University to incorporate project materials into their curriculum.
Workshops at Field Days
Field days and Master Stocker and Master Cattlemen programs were advertised using the following media outlets: industry newspapers, such as the Cow Country News; websites, University-affiliated Facebook pages, and internal communication services (email); the Kentucky Cattleman's Association’s internal publication; a press release through the University of Kentucky’s Agricultural Communications Service was released to all Kentucky Newspapers along with national and regional publications such as BEEF magazine; promotional posters and flyers (Appendix C) posted at county Extension offices; and information was sent to a local radio station, providing coverage for events. Personal letters were also sent to nearly 200 beef producers across Kentucky who had participated in Beef Integrated Resource Management programs in the past (such as the Master Cattleman Program and CPH Sales).
For the All-Commodity Field Day at Princeton (July 2011), press releases were sent to all Kentucky newspapers. The local Princeton radio station provided live coverage on the day of the field day. Faculty and staff also promoted the field day with notices on all e-mail and outgoing faxes. A banner advertising the field day hung across one of the main roads in Princeton to advertise the event.
Poster displays were created for BMP demonstration sites during field days that highlighted production benefits, economic incentives, or other important information. Handouts were also included for some events. The All-Commodity Field Day, which had previously been a biennial event, has now evolved into multiple, commodity-specific field days (e.g. Beef Bash). This project was scheduled to be part of subsequent All-Commodity Field Days (2013), but participated in the Beef Bash instead.
Program Evaluations
This project incorporated a continuous feedback loop—assessment, analysis, refinement, and reassessment. Input from the project advisory committee, program participants, and individual producers were used to improve project deliverables. The number of program participants and implemented BMPs served as one metric of success. Additional measures included fact sheet
15 publications and follow-up surveys (questions following) after Master Stocker and Master Cattlemen programs to ascertain if any changes in behavior patterns had been achieved.
Evaluation Questions: 1. The speaker was knowledgeable about environmental topics related to agriculture. a. Strongly Agree b. Agree c. Neither Agree or Disagree d. Disagree e. Strongly Disagree 2. I gained valuable information about environmental topics related to agriculture from this session. a. Strongly Agree b. Agree c. Neither Agree or Disagree d. Disagree e. Strongly Disagree 3. The information presented in this session was useful to my operation. a. Strongly Agree b. Agree c. Neither Agree or Disagree d. Disagree e. Strongly Disagree 4. I gained valuable information from the videos in the presentation. a. Strongly Agree b. Agree c. Neither Agree or Disagree d. Disagree e. Strongly Disagree 5. I plan to put this new information into practice on my farm. a. Strongly Agree b. Agree c. Neither Agree or Disagree d. Disagree e. Strongly Disagree 6. What is the most important thing you learned during this session? 7. How could this session be improved? 8. Are there any topics you would like more information about? The Kentucky Master Stocker Program, under the direction of Dr. Jeff Lehmkuhler, also conducted an evaluation of program participants following the 2012 sessions. Questions reflecting the environmental sessions included: 1. Have you completely developed your Ag Water Quality Plan? 2. What percentage of your Ag Water Quality Plan have you implemented? 3. Have you applied for cost-share programs to implement practices as part of your Ag Water Quality Plan (i.e. approved for stream fencing, waterer development, fencing out pond, etc.)?
16 4. Have you developed streamside buffers or provided alternative water sources to reduce cattle access to streams? 5. As a result of participating in the Master Stocker program, my perception of the impact livestock may have on water quality has changed (Likert scale responses).
17 III. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
BMP Implementation Plan & On-Farm Demonstration Sites
The UKREC already had a number of BMPs that were used for demonstration activities; however, these practices mostly addressed crop production concerns. Funds were used to continue these ongoing efforts as well as install 20 unique livestock BMPs (Figure 4). Since many of these demonstration sites were be designed by NRCS engineers, they are expected to have a useful life of up to 20 years or more, providing educational opportunities and water quality improvement beyond the duration of this project.
Several BMPs were implemented to address regional concerns. For example, implementing a large animal mortality composting site came at the request of the State Veterinarian, who recognized the need for disposal technologies. The winter feeding demonstration site took advantage of the expertise of the District Conservationist for Garrard and Lincoln Counties by implementing the design as a demonstration site.
The following BMPs were implemented as part of this project. When applicable, the NRCS Practice Codes are given. Table 1 provides a summary of implemented BMPs as well as estimated load reduction, estimated effectiveness, and the geographic locations.
. Animal Mortality Facility – Code 316 . Composting Facility – Code 317 . Diversion – Code 362 . Fence – Containment – Code 382 . Heavy Use Area Protection – Code 561 (Figure 5) . Nutrient Management – Code 590 . Prescribed Grazing – Code 528 . Riparian Forest Buffer – Code 391 . Riparian Herbaceous Cover – Code 390 . Shade Structures . Stormwater Runoff Control – Code 570 . Stream Crossing – Code 578 (Figure 6) . Stream Habitat Improvement and Management – Code 395 . Streambank Protection – Code 580 . Use Exclusion – Code 472 (Figure 7) . Vegetated Treatment Area – Code 635 . Waste Storage Facility – Code 313 . Watering Facility – Code 614 (Figure 8) . Windbreak (Figure 9) . Winter Feeding Structure
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19 Figure 4. Best Management Practices implemented at the University of Kentucky Research and Education Center
Estimated Load Reduction Estimated Effectiveness Geographic Location Implemented BMP Nitrogen Bacteria Sediment Phosphorus Nitrogen Bacteria Sediment Phosphorus Latitude (N) Longitude (W) Fence 37.101882 -87.842974 (includes use exclusion) 37.101466 -87.842349 54% N/A 90% 81%1 M N/A H M2 37.110210 -87.834349 37.110388 -87.835464 Heavy Use Area Protection 37.099830 -87.844521 37.105362 -87.838066 (includes dry lot, feeding 37.106730 -87.837977 U U U U L-M L-M L-M L-M3 lanes, and winter feeding 37.108366 -87.832832 structures) 37.100514 -87.839464 37.108753 -87.837561 Prescribed Grazing 70% 70% 65% 75%4 L-H L-H L-H L-H3 37.109422 -87.837567 Riparian Buffer 37.101882 -87.842974 37.101466 -87.842349 68% 60% 80% 42%3 M H M M2 37.110210 -87.834349 37.110388 -87.835464 37.100267 -87.858398 Stream Crossing U U U U U U U U 37.102254 -87.842368 Waste Storage Facility 65% 90% 70% 60%4 H H H H2 37.101109 -87.843896 Watering Facility 37.101581 -87.838714 37.100397 -87.856639 54% U 90% 81%1 M M H M2 37.103137 -87.841252 37.101686 -87.838682 37.099259 -87.838611 Key: L Low, M Medium, H High, N/A Not Applicable, U Unknown
Table 1. Implemented BMPs at the UKREC and corresponding estimated load reductions, effectiveness, and geographic location.
1. Hoorman, J.J., & McCutcheon, J. n.d. Best Management Practices to Control the Effects of Livestock Grazing Riparian Areas. Ohio State Extension (LS-4-05). Retrieved from http://ohioline.osu.edu/ls-fact/0004.html 2. Brown, L. Boone, K. Nokes, S. & Ward, A. n.d. Agricultural Best Management Practices. Ohio State Extension (AEX-464-91). Retrieved from http://ohioline.osu.edu/aex-fact/0464.html 3. Natural Resources Conservation Service. n.d. Conservation Practices. Retrieved from http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detailfull/national/technical/cp/ncps/?cid=nrcs143_026849 4. United States Environmental Protection Agency. 2014, July 15. National Menu of Stormwater Best Management Practices. Retrieved from http://www.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater/menuofbmps 20
Figure 5. Before (left) and after (right) installing heavy use area protection at the UKREC.
Figure 6. Stream crossing installed at the UKREC.
Figure 7. Livestock were excluded from a riparian area at the UKREC.
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Figure 8. Watering facility installed at the UKREC.
Figure 9. Windbreak/cattle mound installed at the UKREC.
Fact Sheets
Fact sheets were developed or updated for several of the implemented BMPs. Fact sheets produced include the following University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension publications: . Alternative Water Source: Developing Springs for Livestock (AEN-98) . Shade Options for Grazing Cattle (AEN-99) . Building a Grade Stabilization Structure to Control Erosion (AEN-100) . Paved Feeding Areas and the Kentucky Agricultural Water Quality Plan (AEN-107) . Woodland Winter Feeding of Cattle: Water Quality Best Management Practices (ID-187) . Strategic Winter Feeding of Cattle: Using a Rotational Grazing Structure (ID-188)
22 Presentations
Over the course of this project, a total of 18 Master Stocker and Master Cattlemen presentations were given, reaching as many as 500 producers (Table 2). The topics discussed in the presentations included the following: . KY Ag Water Quality Plans . Managing mortalities . Managing mud . Managing manure . Managing water
2012 2013 2014 Total Master Cattleman 3 6 0 9 Master Stocker 7 0 2 9 Total 10 6 2 18 Table 2. Number of Master Stocker and Master Cattlemen presentations given over the project period.
In December 2014, the UKREC was used as a training opportunity for Division of Water Inspectors. This again shows the versatility of this type of project to inform stakeholders on proper agricultural BMP implementation. However, these were formal tours. By having the demonstration sites located on the UKREC, informal tours were also allowed to take place by individual landowners/stakeholders interested in implementing practices. They used the implemented BMPs for ideas and designs for their farming operations.
Workshops at Field Days
For the 2011 All-Commodity field day, three, one-hour presentations were given on nutrient management (Figure 10).
At the 2012 Beef Bash, six, one-hour workshops were given on three topics: winter feeding structures (Figure 11), mortality composting (Figure 12), and nutrient management (Figure 13), reaching as many as 500 cattle producers. At each workshop, poster displays highlighted production and economic benefits of the BMP. For visitors who could not attend a workshop, a poster display that demonstrated the work completed during the project was presented at the main gathering area for the event (Figure 14), where a member of the Project Team was available to engage visitors and answer questions. Extension publications on the BMPs discussed and many others were available at the display. A demonstration of pervious concrete was also presented at the display, as well as a cross-section of a heavy-use area surface.
Because of the many BMPs implemented at the UKREC, the 2014 Beef Bash workshop consisted of three, one-hour bus tours through the farm. All of the BMPs implemented were visited and discussed during the bus tour. Producers who participated in a bus tour received a handout that summarized the most common BMPs for cattle producers (Appendix D). For visitors who could not participate in a bus tour, a poster display that demonstrated the work completed during the
23 project was presented at main gathering area for the event. Extension publications were available at the display and a member of the Project Team was available to engage visitors and answer questions.
Figure 10. Nutrient management concepts were presented during the 2011 All-Commodity Field Day,
Figure 11. The winter feeding structure BMP was demonstrated during the 2012 Beef Bash at the UKREC.
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Figure 12. Mortality composting was demonstrated during the 2012 Beef Bash at the UKREC.
Figure 13. Nutrient management concepts were demonstrated during the 2012 Beef Bash at the UKREC.
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Figure 14. A poster display highlighted all the BMPs implemented as a result of the project during the 2012 Beef Bash at the UKREC.
Program Evaluations
A post-survey was given to the 2012 Master Stocker participants to gauge producers’ attitudes toward the program and willingness to adapt their management based on the information they learned. Figures 15-17 reveal that the vast majority of participants felt the presenter was knowledgeable (99.5%) and that the information was valuable (97%) and useful (92%). More importantly, 87.3% claimed that they planned to put the information into practice (Figure 18).
200 180
160 140 120
Responses 100 of
80 60 40 Number 20 0 Neither Strongly Strongly Agree Agree or Disagree Agree Disagree Disagree Series1 152 46 0 1 0 Figure 15. Master Stocker (2012) participants’ level of agreement with the following statement: the speaker was knowledgeable about environmental topics related to agriculture.
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100 Responses 80 of
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40 Number 20
0 Neither Strongly Strongly Agree Agree or Disagree Agree Disagree Disagree Series1 110 84 4 0 1
Figure 16. Master Stocker (2012) participants’ level of agreement with the following statement: I gained valuable information about environmental topics related to agriculture from this session.
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0 Neither Strongly Strongly Agree Agree or Disagree Agree Disagree Disagree Series1 98 86 13 2 0
Figure 17. Master Stocker (2012) participants’ level of agreement with the following statement: the information presented in this session was useful to my operation.
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0 Neither Strongly Strongly Agree Agree or Disagree Agree Disagree Disagree Series1 65 108 25 0 0
Figure 18. Master Stocker (2012) participants’ level of agreement with the following statement: I plan to put this new information into practice on my farm.
The following is a list of responses and the frequency which they occurred to the question, “What is the most important thing you learned during this session?”
. Dead animal composting (42) . Ag. water quality plan (19) . Winter feeding rotational grazing structure (14) . Environmental laws and regulations (12) . Importance of protecting water quality (12) . Runoff and pollution of water sources (11) . Riparian area management (8) . Nutrient management plan (8) . What to do with manure (6) . BMPs (5) . Dry lot feeding (2) . Cost share (2) . Soil cement (2) . The weight gain difference in mud and not in mud . Keep cattle away from the road . Planned grazing . Buffer strips . Amount of phosphorus in soil . How much it costs to be farming correctly . How much money my farm is losing
28 . How to increase production . Save your streams
The following is a list of responses and the frequency which they occurred to the question, “How could this session be improved?”
. Have 2 sessions (8) . Have more time (7) . Slow down (5) . Font too small on PowerPoint (4) . Tell where you can learn more about the regulations (3) . A lot of info in short amount of time (2) . More cost-effective ways to protect water and manure (2) . Have copies of publications available (2) . Keep it simple stupid . Less threats, more why it pays to do the practice . Let us ask questions as you go along . Have computer memory card . Have a CD of the presentation . More time on nutrient management . Cover less material in more detail . More on cost share
The following is a list of responses and the frequency which they occurred to the question, “Are there any topics you would like more information about?”
. Cost share programs (7) . The feed/concrete structure (5) . Info on what could be done to improve streams (erosion, stream crossings, etc.) (4) . Nutrient management plan (3) . Developing a complete comprehensive plan for a farm (2) . Portable shade (2) . Fencing riparian areas (2) . Manure disposal . Composting . Woodchips in high traffic areas instead of rock . Rotating feeder plots . How to develop natural springs . Feeding areas . Manure analysis . Pasture renovations . Water quality
29 . Educate farmers on how regulations are written and how they can provide input to development of the regulations
Some memorable quotes included the following:
. “I wonder if I can continue to grow cattle on my farm.” . “We have to be more knowledgeable about the environment.” . “The speaker was outstanding. He made learning fun.” . “Steve is passionate about this area and he knows the subject. He is an excellent instructor!” . “BMPs work and make the farm more profitable and productive.” . “Outstanding speaker! Thanks!” . “BMPs impact the farm positively rather than negatively, relative to economics.” The Kentucky Master Stocker Program conducted an evaluation of program participants following the 2012 sessions. Approximately 380 participants from 30 of the 120 counties attended. A random sub-sample of 150 participants was mailed a 50 question survey in 2013 to assess post-program impact. A total of 47 completed questionnaires were returned (31% return rate). The majority (93%) of respondents indicated the program Exceeded or Far Exceeded expectations. Awareness was increased (95%) related to management and marketing and 66% of respondents indicated they implemented changes. The majority (62%) Agreed or Strongly Agreed that their perception of the impact livestock have on water quality and the environment changed with an outcome of agriculture water quality management plans being developed by 79% and 61% indicating they developed streamside buffers or alternative watering sources for cattle.
30 IV. CONCLUSIONS
The tangible products of this project served as one measure of success. In total, 20 unique BMPs were implemented, six fact sheets were produced, 18 presentations were given, and nine workshops at the Beef Bash events were held. In addition, as many as 2,000 livestock producers, primarily cattle, were reached and the vast majority of producer evaluations revealed positive feedback. The Project Team believes that the amount of work accomplished with this project makes it very successful, but what also makes this project successful are some of the more intangible and unmeasurable products.
Because of the number of BMPs implemented at the UKREC, it has become an excellent species- specific demonstration site on a working farm—producers can see how the BMPs can be integrated in with their operation and the differences they will make. Dr. Walter “Roy” Burris, Extension Beef Specialist at the UKREC, claims that “producers are interested [in the BMPs and that they] visit the farm because they are planning to implement one.” The UKREC farm staff have also learned about these benefits along the way. When asked how the BMPs implemented at UKREC had changed the way the farm is managed or improved efficiency, Dr. Burris noted that “the feeding sites have let us feed the cattle without taking the tractors off the roads and into the fields. They have also made it possible to contain the manure and spread it later rather than having a muddy mess in the fields. Less manure on cows’ udders should mean less scours for their calves. Less feed wasted.” Prior to the project, central Kentucky producers may have had an advantage by being located near the University of Kentucky North Farm, where previous BMP implementation effort has been spent; now, western Kentucky producers have these same advantages.
Despite not having a demonstration site prior to the project, western Kentucky producers were already experimenting with BMPs and tailoring them toward their specific management style, operation, and budget, which was gleaned from one-on-one conversations following presentations and during the Beef Bash events. This is an improvement from past years, which has not always been the case as implied by Dr. Burris, “I thought that fencing the streams might elicit a response but no one has said anything negative.” It appears that producers have become more open-minded about BMPs and environmental concerns. The Project Team believes that this is largely due to successful education and outreach efforts and a more aggressive role by the Kentucky Division of Water.
However, there is one major caveat to these conclusions—producers voluntarily attended these presentations and workshops, which makes them slightly more progressive and thus cooperative. Although nearly 2,000 producers were reached during this project, we may not have captured a significant portion of the target audience: laggards. A study by Stonehouse (1996) describes laggards as producers who are last to adopt new practices. His study revealed that laggards are often the biggest polluters and the hardest to reach. Future project effort should focus on ways to target this particular audience.
On the other hand, the more progressive audience wants more education and outreach; in particular, face-to-face meetings and on-farm demonstrations are preferred. This would require the help of Extension agents, Conservation District technicians, and possibly the Natural Resources Conservation Service. The Project Team believes that there is a strong need for technical training of Conservation District personnel and Extension agents so that a uniform message is disseminated.
31 Kentucky Division of Water inspectors also need training on agriculture water quality BMPs. In the future, it will be possible to use the UKREC demonstration sites to train these audiences. All the work that was accomplished with this project could not have been achieved without capitalizing on the success of the Master Cattlemen and Master Stocker Programs and the Beef Bash. These were excellent venues for reaching a large amount of producers. Collaboration with other groups and individuals provided a multidisciplinary perspective and approach that could not have been achieved by the Project Team alone.
32 V. LITERATURE CITED
Baerenklau, K.A. (2005). Toward an understanding of technology adoption: risk, learning, and neighborhood effects. Land Economics, 81 (1): 1-19. Retrieved from http://le.uwpress.org/cgi/reprint/81/1/1
Hudson, T.D. (2008). Livestock management and water quality. Washington State University Extension (EB2021E). Retrieved from http://cru.cahe.wsu.edu/CEPublications/eb2021e/eb2021e.pdf
(KDOW) Kentucky Division of Water. (2011). Final 2010 Integrated Report to Congress on the Condition of Water Resources in Kentucky: Volume II, 303(d) List of Surface Waters. Retrieved from http://water.ky.gov/waterquality/303d%20Lists/2010%20IR%20Volume%202-%20Final.pdf
(KDOW) Kentucky Division of Water. (2012). Kentucky Division of Water 2012 Annual Report. Retrieved from http://water.ky.gov/Documents/AnnualReports/DOW%202012%20Annual%20Report.pdf
(KDOW) Kentucky Division of Water. (2012). Nonpoint Source Management Plan. http://water.ky.gov/nsp/Documents/2012%20KY%20NPS%20Management%20Plan%20- %20Draft%2031%20FINAL.pdf
(NRCS) Natural Resources Conservation Service. (2003). Barriers and Strategies Influencing the Adoption of Nutrient Management Practices. Technical Report 13.1.
Pannell, D.J., Marshall, G.R., Barr, N., Curtis, A., Vanclay, F. & Wilkinson, R. (2006). Understanding and promoting adoption of conservation practices by rural landholders. Australian Journal of Experimental Agriculture, 46(11): 1407-1424. Retrieved from http://www.publish.csiro.au/nid/72/paper/EA05037.htm
Richardson, J.G. (1994). Learning best through experience. Journal of Extension, 32(2). Retrieved from http://www.joe.org/joe/1994august/a6.php
Stonehouse, P.S. (1996). A targeted approach to inducing improved rates of conservation compliance in agriculture. Canadian Journal of Agricultural Economics, 44(1996) 105-119.
[UK] University of Kentucky. (2012). 2012 Kentucky Equine Survey. A final report by the University of Kentucky. Retrieved from http://equine.ca.uky.edu/sites/equine.ca.uky.edu/files/2012equinesurveyreportFINAL3.pdf
United States Environmental Protection Agency. (2010). Kentucky Water Quality Assessment Report. Retrieved from http://ofmpub.epa.gov/waters10/attains_state.control?p_state=KY#total_assessed_waters
United States Environmental Protection Agency. (2009). The National Water Quality Inventory: Report to Congress for the 2004 Reporting Cycle—A profile. Retrieved from http://water.epa.gov/lawsregs/guidance/cwa/305b/upload/2009_01_22_305b_2004report_factshe et2004305b.pdf
33
Appendix A Financial and Administrative Closeout
34 1. Application Outputs
Expected Expected Actual Actual Milestone Status Begin End Begin End General Grant Requirements 1 Submit all draft materials to the Cabinet for review and approval Duration of Project
2 Submit advanced written notice on all workshops, demonstrations, and/or field days to the Cabinet Duration of Project 3 Submit Annual Reports and/or participate in the Cabinet’s sponsored biennial NPS Conference Duration of Project 4 Submit three copies of the Final Report and submit three copies of all products produced by this project Duration of Project
University of Kentucky Milestones 5 Fact sheets and training material development Duration Nov-10 Dec-14 ◦ AEN 98: Alternative Water Source: Developing Springs for Livestock Nov-10 May-11 ◦ AEN 99: Shade Options for Grazing Cattle Nov-10 Mar-11 ◦ AEN 100: Building a Grade Stabilization Structure to Control Erosion Nov-10 Jun-11 ◦ AEN 107: Paved Feeding Areas and the Kentucky Agriculture Water Quality Plan Nov-10 Jul-11 ◦ ID 187: Woodland Winter Feeding of Cattle: Water Quality Best Management Practices Nov-10 May-11 ◦ ID 188: Strategic Winter Feeding of Cattle using a Rotational Grazing Structure Nov-10 Jul-11 6 Submit educational materials to KDOC for approval Duration Apr-11 Dec-14 7 Evaluate sites for BMPs Duration Nov-10 Aug-13 8 Develop a KDOC-approved BMP implementation plan Duration Jan-12 Jul-12 9 Coordinate BMP installation Duration ◦ Installed composting facility May-12 Jun-12 ◦ Installed heavy use area surface in dry lot Jun-12 Jul-12 ◦ Developed a nutrient management plan for the UKREC Dec-10 Dec-10 ◦ Developed a prescribed grazing plan for the UKREC Jan-11 Jan-11 ◦ Managing riparian areas for forest and herbaceous cover Jun-11 Jun-11 ◦ Installed stormwater runoff control Aug-12 Aug-12 ◦ Installed two stream crossings Oct-11 Dec-11 ◦ Created a vegetated treatment area Jul-13 Jul-13 ◦ Installed windbreak Jun-12 Jun-12 ◦ Created heavy use area surface along feeding lanes Jul-14 Jul-14 ◦ Installed animal mortality facility Jul-13 Aug-13 ◦ Installed 2 new watering facilities: one is used for demonstrations and the other was added as an alternative water source than the stream that Jul-13 Aug-13 is going to be fenced off
35
◦ Fenced off riparian areas May-11 Apr-14 ◦ Installed another winter feeding area to be used for demonstrations Aug-13 Apr-14 ◦ Installed shade structures May-14 May-14 10 Develop advertising material to promote field day/workshops and submit to KDOC for approval Duration Jul-13 Sep-14 11 Advertise public demonstration events Duration Nov-10 Sep-14 12 Conduct workshop at All-Commodity Field Day Jul-11 Jul-11 ◦ Presented three, one-hour workshops on nutrient management Jul-11 Jul-11 13 Submit annual reports – per request of KDOC Dec-11 Nov-14 ◦ Completed annual report for 2013 Dec-13 Dec-13 ◦ Completed annual report for 2014 Nov-14 Nov-14 14 Conduct workshop at Beef Bash Sep-12 Sep-12 Sep-12 Sep-12 ◦ Presented six, one-hour workshops on winterfeeding structures, mortality composting, and nutrient management Sep-12 Sep-12 ◦ Gave bus tour of BMPs installed at Princeton Farm and had display that also showcased BMP projects Sep-14 Sep-14
36
2. Budget Summary
Original Detailed Budget Budget Categories Section 319(h) Non-Federal Match TOTAL Final Expenditures1
Personnel 69,576 49,608 119,184 45,522
Supplies 66,435 34,400 100,835 188,860
Equipment 0 2,000 2,000 0
Travel 5,000 7,000 12,000 869
Contractual 0 0 0 0
Operating Costs 47,803 31,868 79,671 79,750
Other 0 0 0 0 TOTAL 188,814 124,876 313,690 315,001 1. The University of Kentucky was reimbursed $0.00. All dollars were spent; there were no excess project funds to reallocate. This project will generate overmatch provided by the University of Kentucky. This overmatch was not posted to the Grant.
3. Equipment Summary
No equipment was purchased for this project.
4. Special Grant Conditions
There were no special grant conditions placed on this project.
37
Appendix B BMP Implementation Plan
38
Livestock Stewardship BMP Training and Demonstration Project - BMP Implementation Plan –
University of Kentucky College of Agriculture July 2012
39 I. Planned Best Management Practices The following BMPs may be implemented as part of this project. When applicable, the NRCS Practice Codes are given.
• Animal Mortality Facility – Code 316 • Composting Facility – Code 317 • Diversion – Code 362 • Fence – Containment – Code 382 • Grade Stabilization Structure – Code 410 • Heavy Use Area Protection – Code 561 • Nutrient Management – Code 590 • Prescribed Grazing – Code 528 • Riparian Forest Buffer – Code 391 • Riparian Herbaceous Cover – Code 390 • Stormwater Runoff Control – Code 570 • Stream Crossing – Code 578 • Stream Habitat Improvement and Management – Code 395 • Streambank Protection – Code 580 • Use Exclusion – Code 472 • Vegetated Treatment Area – Code 635 • Waste Storage Facility – Code 313 • Winter Feeding Structure
II. BMP Selection Process The BMPs listed in the previous section were selected because they work well for the land uses and pollutant sources common in the region in which the BMPs will be demonstrated. Pollutant load reduction effectiveness and the overall aptitude for them to be installed and maintained with the highest level of project participation and support were also factors in BMP selection. In addition, most of these BMPs address producers’ management concerns, as well as environmental issues, and are already familiar to the Project Team and stakeholders in the region, making them appealing for producers and suitable for this demonstration project.
III. Targeting Selected BMPs BMPs for this project will be targeted with demonstration in mind. Convenience for demonstration and willingness of the landowner (University of Kentucky Experiment Station) to place BMPs in an area will dictate where BMPs are ultimately placed; however, areas that are representative for farmers in the region and provide realistic conditions for BMP demonstration will be favored.
IV. Financial Plan of Action The University of Kentucky, College of Agriculture will bear 40% of the total budget. Contributions include the use of facilities, labor, and equipment for all implementation activities. In addition, the University of Kentucky, College of Agriculture will leverage labor, field days, office supplies, vehicles, fuel, computing equipment, and meeting space costs.
40 V. Landowner Maintenance Agreement The University of Kentucky Experiment Station agrees to maintain all BMPs installed as a part of this project for the duration of the life expectancy of each BMP.
VI. Notification Process The Kentucky Division of Water, NPS Section Technical Advisor (TA) will be advised of the selected BMP at least one week before implementation begins. This may take the form of either a letter or an electronic notification to the TA describing the BMP, the location where the BMP will be installed, and the expected date of implementation.
VII. Assurance Statement The Kentucky Agriculture Water Quality Act (KRS 224.71-100 through 224.71-140) was enacted by the 1994 General Assembly to guide the state’s agriculture industry in its efforts to address environmental issues. The KY Agricultural Water Quality Plan (KY AWQP) was developed as a result of this Act. The KY AWQP is an effort to produce a practical, flexible, coordinated natural resources management system that protects the waters of the Commonwealth and complies with applicable government rules and regulations. It is based on pollution prevention through the use of best management practices (BMPs). KRS 224.71 defines BMPs as the most effective, practical, and economical means of reducing and preventing water pollution. BMPs establish minimum acceptable quality levels for planning, siting, designing, installing, operating, and maintaining agriculture and silviculture facilities and operations. BMP’s used as a part of this project will conform to guidelines identified in the KY AWQP as well as all local, state, and federal guidelines. In addition to compliance with the KY AWQP, all BMPs have been cross referenced with NRCS technical standards when applicable and will be implemented accordingly.
41
Appendix C Flyers
42
Thursday, September 27, 2012 9:00 am CT
UK Research & Education Center Princeton, Kentucky
http://ces.ca.uky.edu/beefirm/bash/
Commercial Exhibitors Include: Demonstrations & Educational Exhibits*: ABS Agri-Power, Inc. • Beef Cutting Demo Boehringer Ingelheim • Dead Animal Composting Callicrate Banders • Determining Age of Cattle Caudill Seed Co. • Christian Co. Livestock Market Weed Control in Pastures • Farmer's Pride Feeding After the Drought Gold Standard Labs • Forages Tour; Hay Quality (Sampling, Testing Kentucky Beef Council and Feeding Kentucky Beef IRM • Genomics In Selection and Management Kentucky Cattleman's Association • Grazing Wheat Kentucky Farm Bureau Federation • MAG 60 Marketing/Pre-Conditioning Kentucky Forage and Grassland Council • Managing Around Fescue Endophyte Kentucky Livestock Coalition • Nutrigenomics Research Kentucky Tennessee Livestock Market • Reducing Hay Loss with Feeding Structures Mix 30 Liquid Feed - Mid South Ag, LLC • Simplified Ration Balancing Pfizer Animal Health • Trailer Safety Smoky Mountain Cattle
Southern States * these demonstrations are subject to change.
more. You’ll have opportunities for hands on activities and, of course, the chance to visit with other Kentucky beef cattle producers, UK personnel and administration as well as KCA staff and leadership.
This exciting field day will offer many demonstrations, commercial exhibits, educational exhibits and
more. You’ll have opportunities for hands on activities and, of course, the chance to visit with other Kentucky beef cattle producers, UK personnel and administration as well as KCA staff and leadership.
Thursday, September 25, 2014 9:00 am CT
UK Research & Education Center Princeton, Kentucky
http://www.facebook.com/KyBeefIRM
Demonstrations & Educational Exhibits: Producing Beef for Different Markets Commercial Exhibitors Include Fetal Programming of Calves Minerals and Male Fertility ABS Kentucky Farm Bureau Alltech Hay Storage “Does It Pay” Kentucky Tennessee Livestock Barenbrug Seed Kentuckiana Livestock Genomic and Mineral Supplementation Boehringer Ingelheim Micronutrients Feedlot Performance of Kentucky Calves Callicrate Banders Mix 30 Liquid Feed Caudill Seed Co. Genetics for Kentucky Cattle Multimin 90 Christian Co. Livestock Schaeffer Manufacturing Pasture Weed Control CPC Livestock Nutrition Smoky Mountain Cattle Dow AgroSciences Triple Trust Feed & Seed Alternative Summer Grazing Fencing By Frank Turner Seed Managing Around the Environment First Farmers CO-OP United Livestock Commodities Free BQA Training and Certification Gold Standard Labs United Producers H&R Agri-Power Vigortone Hubbard Feeds VitaFerm Noon Program Immvac Whayne Agri-Business Dr. Nancy Cox, Dean, College of Agriculture, Kentucky Beef IRM Zoetis Food and Environment Kentucky Cattlemen's Assoc. Dr. John Paterson, Executive Director of Producer Education, NCBA
This exciting field day will offer many demonstrations, commercial exhibits, educational exhibits and more. You’ll have opportunities for hands on activities and, of course, the chance to visit with other Kentucky beef cattle producers, UK personnel and administration as well as KCA staff and leadership.
Appendix D Educational Materials
45
BMP Recommendations for Cattle Producers
Provide facilities or structures to reduce the creation of mud and to cap- ture manure for future Spring nutrient application
Strategic Winter Feeding of Cattle using a Rotational Grazing Structure (ID-188) Woodland Winter Feeding of Cattle: Water Quality Best Management Practices (ID-187)
Clean manure from congregation and feeding areas. Apply this manure to a crop field or place it in a covered stack pad for later application Nutrient Management Planning Guidelines (ID-211) Nutrient Management Concepts for Livestock Producers (AEN-113) Paved Feeding Areas and the Kentucky Agriculture Water Quality Plan (AEN-107)
Manage mortalities by composting or other legal means of disposal
On-Farm Composting of Animal Mortalities (ID-166) On-Farm Disposal of Animal Mortalities (ID-167)
Install stream crossings to prevent erosion and stability problems.
Stream Crossings for Cattle (AEN-101)
Exclude livestock from streams, ponds, sinkholes, and any other environmentally-sensitive areas
Riparian Buffers: A Livestock Best Management Practice for Protecting Water Quality (ID-175) Sinkhole Management for Agricultural Producers
Steve Higgins and Stephanie Mehlhope, Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, University of Kentucky College of Agriculture
Install heavy-use area pads around areas that receive a lot of traffic, such as waterers, feeders, shade structures, mineral feeders, and windbreaks.
High Traffic Area Pads for Horses (ID-164) Using Dry Lots to Conserve Pastures and Reduce Pollution Potential (ID-171)
Install alternative water sources such as developed springs or gravity-fed watering systems, making sure that cattle do not have to travel more than 600 feet to obtain water.
Alternative Water Source: Developing Springs for Livestock (AEN-98) Drinking Water Quality Guidelines for Cattle (ID-170)
Implement managed practices to protect soil and pasture quality. Control gully erosion by installing structures/ diversions where appropriate.
Pasture Feeding, Streamside Grazing, and the Kentucky Agriculture Water Quality Plan (AEN-105) Planning Fencing Systems for Intensive Grazing Management (ID-74) Building a Grade Stabilization Structure to Control Erosion (AEN-100)
Place shade structures in areas that are well ventilated and lure cattle away from streams, ponds and other sensitive areas.
Shade Options for Grazing Cattle (AEN-99)
This work was funded in part by a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency under §319(h) of the Clean Water Act and administered by the Kentucky Division of Conservation.
Appendix E News Articles
48
Bluegrass Equine Digest ❙ ca.uky.edu/equine ❙ Thehorse.com ❙ July 2012
Emerging, Surging Diseases
MA ST H E AD that fl only after a primary infec- tion with Taylorella equigenitalis, the true ■ University of Kentucky Ag Equine Programs causative bacteria. Jenny Blandford, managing editor, [email protected] Scientists believe many factors con- holly Wiemers, managing editor, [email protected] tribute to emerging disease spread, such as environmental factors (e.g., drought, ■ Bluegrass Equine Digest Advisory Board El Niño) and the international move- nancy cox, Phd, associate dean for research in uk’s college of agriculture, kentucky agricultural ment of people, horses, and insect vec- experiment station director tors that transmit disease. ed squires, Phd, dipl. acT (hon.), director of uk ag equine Programs and executive director of the uk Gluck “It is also worthwhile considering equine research Foundation whether the overuse or abuse of antibi- mats Troedsson, dVm, Phd, dipl. acT, director of the uk Gluck equine research center and chair of the otics has contributed to the emergence department of veterinary science of certain diseases, such as methicillin- resistant Staphylococcus aureus ■ Bluegrass Equine Digest Editorial Committee (MRSA),” Timoney proposed. craig carter, dVm, Phd, dipl. acVPm, director of the uk Veterinary diagnostic Laboratory Several diseases are currently emerg- Bob coleman, Phd, Pas, associate director for undergraduate education in equine science and management ing in horses, contributing to loss of and extension horse specialist equine life and economic implications Laurie Lawrence, Phd, professor in the department of animal and food sciences including cost of treatment, testing, ray smith, Phd, professor and forage extension specialist vaccine development. Luckily, only few William W. Witt, Phd, researcher in the department of plant and soil sciences emerging equine diseases recognized ■ The Horse: Your Guide to Equine Health Care since 1969 have any public health sig- nificance and are therefore not a threat alexandra Beckstett, associate managing editor to human health. Brian Turner, Layout and design
The Bluegrass equine digest is a registered trademark of the university of kentucky ag equine Programs and Gluck Once Bitten, Twice Shy equine research center. The Bluegrass equine digest is produced by the university of kentucky in partnership with As if the worry about a new disease Thehorse.com and sponsor Pfi animal health. it is published monthly to provide up-to-date information on equine bearing its fangs and wreaking emo- research from the university of kentucky’s college of agriculture. research material is meant to be shared. however, materials are copyrighted and require reprint permission from uk ag equine Programs. Past issues of the Bluegrass tional and economic havoc on the North equine digest are available at www2.ca.uky.edu/equine/bed. American horse industry isn’t enough, experts advise that re-emerging diseases are an equally important threat. but from 2001 to 2006 there were 33 con- A Worldwide Problem “Re-emerging diseases are those firmed outbreaks. Most of those in the “As evidenced by the West Nile virus, that have been experienced before but United States (26) involved the “mutant” no longer is any country remote from have reappeared in a more virulent (se- form of EHV-1 virus that causes EHM. the risk of incursion of any pathogen,” vere) form or whose epidemiology has According to Timoney, even though Timoney concluded. “Fewer and fewer changed in some significant respect,” more updated statistics are unavailable infectious diseases are currently con- Timoney explained. on the overall number of EHM out- sidered restricted in their worldwide One of the best examples of a re- breaks that have occurred over the past distribution.” emerging disease of concern to the U.S. seven years, there is no doubt that dis- According to Timoney, this makes horse industry is the neurologic form ease incidence has continued to increase risk analysis, communication, surveil- of equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1), in the interim. lance, and prompt reporting of disease called equine herpesvirus myeloenceph- “EHM is not the only re-emerging dis- outbreaks valuable tools to “safeguard alopathy (EHM). ease of importance in horses,” Timoney the health integrity of a nation’s equine “Since 2000 there has been an increase added. “Nocardioform placentitis and industry.” in the number of outbreaks and cases of (resulting) abortion can also be a dis- EHM—the vast majority of which are ease of economic significance in breed- >stacey oke, dVm, msc, is a freelance medical believed to be caused by specifi ‘neuro- ing populations in some years.” writer based out of canada. pathogenic’ strains of the virus,” noted Timoney. Neuropathogenicity of one particular EHV-1 strain is linked to a single change Creating Hardened Surfaces in in one of the virus’ genes controlling its replication. High-Traffic Areas Based on data compiled by the late George Allen, PhD, from the University of hen it comes to creating the best environment for their horses, owners have Kentucky, the total number of confirmed W a lot to think about. However, what lies beneath their animals’ feet generally EHM outbreaks in both the U.S. and the isn’t one of them, said Stephen Higgins, PhD, director of Environmental Compliance U.K. from the ’70s and ’80s was only 14, for the Agricultural Experiment Station at the University of Kentucky’s College of
3
Bluegrass Equine Digest ❙ ca.uky.edu/equine ❙ Thehorse.com ❙ July 2012
Placing the fabric before adding gravel ST u D E n T S p o T l IGH T is crucial to the surface’s long-term per- formance, Higgins said. “If the geotextile
is not used, the rock material will sink NaME: JuliaNa RoBERta CaMpoS into the ground over time and mud will From: Brazil seep up through the voids, eventually Degrees and institute where received: DVM, creating the same problem the pad was Sao Paulo State University, Brazil built to remedy,” he said. The combination has construction- Graduate student Juliana roberta campos said being a huge fan related economic benefits as well. “The of horses and equine research made her choice to seek a masters’ use of geotextile fabric allows area pads degree at the university of kentucky Gluck equine research center to be constructed using much less grav- an easy one. el because the fabric acts as reinforce- campos’ research focuses on equine viral arteritis, a venereal con- ment,” Higgins said. “This means that tagious disease of equids. The virus is known for establishing persis- these pads can be constructed using less tence in the reproductive tract of 30-70% of infected stallions, which can become carriers and rock than if rock alone was used.” shed the virus in their semen for a variable period of time, campos said. Owners can also construct hardened “The focus of my research is to study the mechanisms of establishments of equine arteritis surfaces using footing materials that will virus (eaV) persistent infection in the stallion and to see the effect of the virus on semen quality self-harden such as soil cement, lime- during acute infection,” she said. “if we have a diagnostic tool which can distinguish between stabilized soils, or coal combustion prod- carrier and noncarrier stallions before infection with the virus, we could give more attention to ucts. Higgins advised against using Class those stallions that are predisposed to become carriers in research programs for the control of I sand to create a hardened surface unless the disease.” dense grade gravel is placed beneath it for currently, there isn’t a national program available for eVa prevention and control or any re- support. Typically, gravel pad installation quirement regarding eVa for importing horses into the united states. This leaves the horse popu- requires placing the pads, wetting them, lation in this country very vulnerable to an eVa outbreak that could cause great economic loss in then compacting them with a smooth the equine industry, campos said. drum roller. Allow soil cement and coal
campos’ anticipated graduation is in fall 2012. she hopes to pursue a Phd thereafter. combustion products to cure for about seven days before use. >shaila sigsgaard is a contributing writer for the Bluegrass equine digest. Local conservation district personnel can advise horse owners about which materials are readily available locally. They can also advise owners about lo- Hardened Surfaces surfaces” incorporate heavy-use pads or cal best practices for installing hardened compacted gravel around concrete near surfaces, Higgins said.
high-traffic areas. Owners can create Once in place, owners should maintain Agriculture. Even so, he said creating hardened surfaces by installing geotex- hardened surfaces by removing any de- surfaces that minimize pasture damage tile fabric in high-traffic areas, then cov- posited manure or uneaten hay, Higgins and reduce horses’ health risks should ering that material with gravel. said. “Owners should try not to scrape be on owners’ priority list. Made from polypropylene or polyester up the gravel (when removing manure Higgins explained that when a horse is material, geotextiles are permeable fab- and uneaten hay),” he said. “but it’s hard standing, his hoof places approximately rics used to strengthen soil and reduce to avoid some removal.” 27 pounds of pressure per square inch erosion. In combination with gravel (also Assuming normal wear and tear, own- (PSI) to a surface. That surface pressure called dense grade aggregate), geotextile ers should top-dress the pad with gravel, increases to 48 PSI when a horse walks. fabrics create a surface that can with- water it down, and compact it once ev- When several horses congregate around stand heavy traffic from horses, humans, ery five years, he said. soft surface feeding and watering areas farm equipment, and other vehicles. Finally, owners who install hardened they can create mud. Over the long term, surfaces not only create better environ- heavy equine traffi on muddy surfaces in- ments for their horses, but also comply creases soil compaction, prohibits desired with state and federal agricultural air vegetation growth, and promotes weed and water pollution regulations, Hig- infestation. These muddy conditions also gins said. And there’s a cost benefit, too. expose horses’ hooves and legs to bacte- “Considering the reduction in feed costs rial infection and force animals to expend and reduced risk of disease, doing the more energy, in turn increasing their need environmental stuff increases your pro- for feed, water, and forage. duction,” Higgins said. It’s better, said Higgins, to provide animals with an all-weather, multipur- >Pat raia is a professional journalist who has pose surface that can support the weight covered horse industry and equestrian topics and continuous traffic near gateways, for a number of publications. her background feeding areas, and other places horses includes riding, showing, and training saddle- congregate. These so-called “hardened These hard surfaces reduce pasture damage. bred horses.
4
SPORTS VolleyRebs are bound for regions — page 12 AASSEEYY OOUUUNNNTTTYYY EEWWWSS C C N C C N www.caseynews.net TTHHEE
Vol. 104, No. 41 Liberty, Kentucky, Wednesday, October 10, 2012 16 Pages–75¢ Taylor County man arrested in Dunnville homicide Kentucky State Police Salyers had an ongoing ar- Further, Salyers refused ecuted a search warrant at announced that on Oct. 3, gument over an alleged debt to name the shooter, telling Salyers’ residence in rural Shooting allegedly detectives from Post 15 in that Pyles owed Salyers. detectives that he “was not a Taylor County. Columbia arrested David Also, detectives raised rat,” the release states. Items seized during the Salyers, 59, of Elk Horn. questions about the possibil- On the night of the inci- search warrant are expected Salyers was charged with ity of the shooting occurring dent, Salyers said that he to lead to more charges and over debt complicity to commit mur- because of Pyles wanting drove the shooter to Dunn- additional arrests in the near der and is lodged in the to turn in his colors to the ville in his truck, which he future, the release states. Larry Rowell Casey County Detention Iron Horseman Motorcycle admitted to burning later the “The investigation is on- Staff Writer Center, under a $1 million Club. same night. going, and that’s all I can cash bond. Salyers said that it was On Thursday morn- say at this time,” said KSP An arrest has been made In the course of the ho- not Pyles wanting to get out ing, Post 15 detectives and Public Affairs Officer Billy in the shooting death of micide investigation, detec- of the club but the debt that troopers, along with the KSP Gregory on Monday morn- Wendell Pyles, the 50-year- tives learned that Pyles and brought on the shooting. Special Response Team, ex- ing. old Adair County man who was shot and killed on Sept. 26 at Tarter Manufacturing in Dunnville. SALYERS
Plenty of Pumpkins State agriculture
commissioner visits LACKY By Larry Rowell months in office, including the Staff Writer ongoing investigation into the way former Commissioner of The state’s head agriculture Agriculture Richie Farmer ran official was in Casey County the department. Oct. 2 for a field day demon- stration of a large animal com- Farmer investigation posting business. “We had the attorney general Jamie Comer, Kentucky’s in our office today, and their Commissioner of Agriculture, staff. It seems like this inves- joined about 100 farmers at tigation is taking a long time,” the Brent and Bart Woodrum Comer said. farm on Ky. 49 to endorse their Comer, a Republican like new ag-business, Large Animal Farmer and the only Republican Composting of Kentucky, or in a Democratically controlled LACKY. state administration, said that “I appreciate Casey County. he believes the investigation is Casey County was very good to driven by Democrats. me in the primary and general “I think my goal is to move election. It’s close to home. I’m forward. I wonder sometimes if from Monroe County and I rep- they would have taken as much resented Monroe, Green, Cum- time investigating someone in berland, and Metcalfe counties their own party,” he said. in the legislature for six terms And while Comer admits so we’re all neighbors to Casey there may have been wrong- County, he said. doing in Farmer’s administra- During the visit, Comer tion, he asks Democrats to treat spoke about the challenges and successes of his first nine photos/AMANDA COLE ■ See STATE/9 Kara Davis, a senior at Casey County High School, has been growing and donating pumpkins for Kentucky Heritage Days for the past three years. BELOW, the more than 1,000 pumpkins to be donated are being stored, waiting for delivery next week. Davis donates more than 1,000 pumpkins to Heritage Days event By Amanda Cole July when she planted an acre Staff Writer of Small Sugar and Hijinks Hybrid pumpkins. A smiling jack-o’-lantern, “They looked like a good- maybe a spider or a witch. size pumpkin for kids,” Kara Children will use their said of the two varieties she imagination and a bit of paint chose to plant. “Not very to turn pumpkins into works heavy.” of art next week at Kentucky The 18-year-old daughter Heritage Days, but they prob- of Leanne and Herb Davis, ably won’t stop and wonder Kara has been providing the pumpkins for several years Experience (SAE) project to how the more than 1,000 pumpkins for children to dec- with her family,” said Alan achieve the club’s Greenhand pumpkins arrived at the Cen- orate at Kentucky Heritage Godbey, FFA advisor and ag- degree, Kara chose to grow tral Kentucky Ag/Expo Cen- Days for the last three years. riculture teacher at the high pumpkins and gourds. ter. It all started when Kara school, as well as a member of “That was a natural fit for photo/LARRY ROWELL Kara Davis, a senior at joined the high school’s Future the Heritage Days committee. her,” Godbey said. Kentucky’s Commissioner of Agriculture Jamie Comer speaks to ap- Casey County High School, Farmers of America chapter. So when it came time to proximately 100 farmers and agribusiness representatives on Oct. 2 at started thinking about that in “She had been growing pick a SupervisedAgricultural ■ See PLENTY/9 Brent Woodrum’s farm on Ky. 49 in Liberty.
Wright,Vance vie for Circuit judge’s seat to serve Casey and Adair By Larry Rowell Staff Writer
Come Jan. 1, a sense of permanency will finally come to the Circuit Court Judge’s bench in the 39th Judicial District which comprises Casey and Adair counties. Using senior judges since the death of Circuit Judge James G. Weddle in April, either Casey and Adair County Commonwealth’s Attorney Brian Wright or Co- lumbia Attorney Judy Vance will be on the bench the first of the new year.
■ See JUDGE/9 VANCE WRIGHT
BRIEFS OBITUARIEESS INDEX Opinion ...... 2 Commodities R e r Commodities will be distributed to e n e income-eligible residents from 9 a.m.to c t 4 p.m.today,Wednesday,Oct.10,at the i s a Casey County Recycling Center. p s i a k
bring their own containers. will meet in special-called session lar session at 5 p.m.today,Wednesday, Ruby E. Clark, 82 Around the Area ...... 5 Monday at 7 p.m.at the central office. at City Hall. Dessie L. Murphy, 92 Public Record ...... 5 Meetings The board will go into executive session Family ...... 6 • The Casey County Board of Education Absentee voting to discuss a personnel/student matter. The absentee voting machine is now Roy Weaver Shirk, infant Church ...... 7 • The committee planning the 2012 available at Casey County Clerk Casey Eloise Wethington, 82 Out of the Past ...... 8
Casey County Apple festival will meet at Davis’office located in the old Casey Police News ...... 9 Linzie A.Wilson, 47 School ...... 10-11 7 p.m.Tuesday at their office on Beldon County Courthouse.The office is open Sports ...... 12-13 Avenue. Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.to 4:30 p.m. Obituaries on page 4 Classified ...... 14 and from 8 a.m.to 12 noon on • Liberty City Council will meet in regu- Crossword Puzzle ...... 14 Saturdays.
The Casey County News, Liberty, Kentucky Wednesday, October, 2012 – 9 www.caseynews.net
Jud ge ■ Continued from front as title examinations for cluded many murder cases, influence on my decisions,” for victims of crime and in our court system,” Vance banks and property owners, drug trafficking cases, drug he said. helping to keep our commu- said. Brian Wright preparing deeds and mort- possession cases, thefts, and Wright and his wife Nikki, nity safe,” Vance said. Vance said that if elected, Wright, 29, a Casey Coun- gages, settling estates, repre- other serious crimes,” he a speech therapist with the After four years in the she is confident that she can ty native who has served as senting individualsin divorce said. Casey County School Sys- Commonwealth’s Attorney’s do the job, fairly serving all Commonwealth’s Attorney proceedings, preparing wills Additionally, Wright has tem, have two sons, Cole- office, Vance began a private residents of Casey and Adair since 2002, began his law and trusts, and representing practiced before circuit man, 8, and Brady, 5. practice in Columbia where counties. career with Liberty attor- clients in civil litigation in- courts in different counties she has represented clients “I want people to know I’ll ney Thomas Weddle Jr. in volving many different legal throughout south-central Judy Vance in criminal and in civil cases be fair to everyone. I don’t October 1998 after graduat- issues,” Wright said. Kentucky, including Adair, Vance, a graduate of Lind- for the past seven years. owe anybody anything,” she ing from the University of Also, he represented a Barren, Casey, Clinton, sey Wilson College and “People need to under- said. Kentucky Law School that number of small businesses, Cumberland, Garrard, Lin- Thomas M. Cooley Law stand that circuit court is Additionally, Vance said spring. assisting clients in forming coln, Marion, Monroe, Pu- School in Lansing, Mich., much more than trying crim- that although she lives in He was also an Assistant limited liability companies laski, Rockcastle, Russell, Vance worked as a law clerk inal cases. It’s actually far Adair County, the election is Commonwealth’s Attorney (LLCs), incorporating busi- Taylor, and Warren coun- with the late Judge James more civil cases than crimi- not about which of the two and served in that capacity nesses, and creating partner- ties, which he said gave him G. Weddle after graduating nal cases,” she said, referring counties the candidates live under the late Fred Capps ship agreements. insight into the practices of from law school. to statistics from the Admin- in, but who can best repre- and Clay Hundley in addi- As Commonwealth’s At- many different circuit court “Through this experience, istrative Office of the Courts sent the people of both coun- tion to serving as city attor- torney, Wright said that he judges in Kentucky. I learned about the legal showing there were 583 civil ties. ney for Liberty. has been responsible for the Wright pledged to repre- system from a judge’s per- cases compared to 302 crim- “It’s not Adair County ver- Because a circuit court prosecution of felony cases sent all people fairly who spective, taking note of the inal cases filed in Casey and sus Casey County. A lot of judge must handle criminal in circuit court. come before the bench. fact that each case is unique Adair Circuit Court. my career has been in Casey and civil cases, Wright said “These cases have includ- “If elected, I hope to ac- and deserving of the court’s Vance said that in her legal County. I want voters to that he believes that based ed murders, robberies, rapes, complish my goal of main- time,” she said. career she has handled vari- know when I graduated law on his legal experience, he sexual abuses, computer taining the dignity of the Vance next worked as an ous cases such as divorces, school, the first day I worked is the right candidate for the crimes, serious assaults, ve- position of circuit judge Assistant Commonwealth’s custodies, civil litigation, was in Casey County. Casey position. hicular homicides, drug of- by presiding over the pro- Attorney for Casey and bankruptcies, adoptions, real County people are near and “Mr. Weddle had an exten- fenses, fourth offense DUIs, ceedings of circuit court in Adair counties, where she estate, and she has also rep- dear to my heart,” she said. sive civil practice established and thefts, among others. I a knowledgeable, fair, and prosecuted felony cases and resented banks in foreclo- Vance is married to Pat- when I began practicing law have prosecuted approxi- just manner. I will treat all presented cases to the grand sure actions. rick Vance, who works at with him. Within my civil mately 3,000 cases, and participants fairly and I will jury. “I have also spent a count- Casey County Hospital. The practice I represented a large have conducted in excess make decisions based on the “I quickly learned the no- less number of hours serving couple has three daughters, number of clients on a wide of 100 jury trials in circuit law and the facts of each bility of a prosecutor’s posi- as an advocate for children Courtney, 9, Kaylee, 4, and range of legal matters, such court. These trials have in- case, without any improper tion, through seeking justice in neglect and abuse cases Chloe, 2.
State
■ Continued from front Several bills were introduced Police News other investigations in the same in the 2012 Kentucky legisla- ture, but none passed. manner. Comer said that critics have Pair charged with illegal sale of alcohol “I look at the Personnel pointed to hemp resembling Board in our office investigat- marijuana but it’s totally dif- Joel M. Wethington, 57, of 2238 Woodrum Ridge ing stuff that Richie did four ferent. Road, Liberty, was arrested on Monday by Sheriff Jerry years ago, probably wrong “The reason we don’t have Coffman and Deputy Chad Weddle and charged with five that Richie did. Then I saw industrial hemp in the U.S. is counts of the illegal sale/give alcohol in a dry territory. where they had something there’s been a misconception Wethington was also charged with four counts of first- with Rocky Adkins and they and misinformation over the degree, first offense trafficking in a controlled substance. just let that off. They’re pick- years. We’re the only indus- Coffman and Weddle also arrested Judy A. Salyers, 50, ing on stuff that happened in trialized country that doesn’t of the same address and charged her with two counts of our office four years ago,” he allow the growth of industrial illegal sale/give alcohol in a dry territory. Court records said. “I’m getting a lot more indicate that Salyers admitted that the 14 pints of Ancient hemp,” he said. questions when I hire some- The commissioner said he’s Age whiskey found in the residence belonged to her. one who, someone say in the photo/LARRY ROWELL heard that law enforcement transportation cabinet would Dr. Steve Higgins, a University of Kentucky biosystems research specialist, ex- leaders are opposed to any- get.” Four charged with DUI Comer was referring to the plains the process of dead animal composting at the Brent Woodrum farm. one growing hemp but that’s hearsay. Elicia M. Luttrell, 51, of 611 South Wallace Wilkin- hiring of a state merit worker “I haven’t had one person at Little Sandy Correctional tions will be able to stay on the signed to promote Kentucky son Boulevard, Liberty, was arrested on Friday by Sgt. farm. agricultural products locally, in law enforcement call me Randy Dial on Hustonville Street and charged with first Complex after House Demo- and say we’ve had a concern,” cratic Floor Leader Rocky “We’re trying to promote the in homes, restaurants, and offense operating a motor vehicle under the influence of Kentucky Agriculture Finance schools. he said. alcohol/drugs. Adkins endorsed the man, the Comer said that he and son of a local politician, over Corporation, specifically the “We’re trying to get healthi- Luttrell was charged with DUI after being involved in young farmer loan program er, more locally grown foods in Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul had an accident which sent 19-year-old Travis Spelts, of 199 another applicant deemed best a press conference at the state qualified, an accusation which and what that will do, it will the school systems and restau- Wall St., Liberty, to Casey County Hospital. Spelts was Adkins has denied. allow young people to go into rants. I think you’re gonna see fair in August about hemp and headed south on Hustonville Street on a motorcycle and farming or purchase a farm more Kentucky Proud products also about restarting a hemp was hit when Luttrell, headed north, attempted to turn left It is illegal for a state law- commission that’s been de- maker to exert undue influ- from the family,” he said. on menus in restaurants, more in front of him, court records indicate. Spelts was ejected An example of this, Comer Kentucky Proud products on funct for more than a decade. from the motorcycle, hit Luttrell’s windshield and flew ence in the hiring of a state “Not only do people need merit worker. said, is if a parent has three the shelves in Wal-Marts and 20 feet, striking a parked vehicle. Casey EMS, Liberty/ children, and only one or two in Krogers,” he said. to know that it’s safe to grow Casey County Rescue, and the Liberty Fire Department Transparency want to farm and the other one Comer also said that his hemp, they also need to know responded to the call. On the other side of the wants to move to the city. He department is working to in- it’s a crop tailor made for cen- Norman P. Hanley, 46, of 195 Young Drive, Stan- Farmer investigation, Comer said it’s unfair to give every- crease marketing opportunities tral Kentucky, especially in ford, was arrested on Sunday by Sgt. Randy Dial on Wal- said that his department is ex- thing to the one without the for farmers so as to be able to Casey County,” he said. lace Wilkinson Boulevard and charged with first offense tra vigilant in following state other getting something. increase value for their prod- “It grows well where forag- operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol/ policy and laws. “That means that the family ucts. es grow well and this is forage drugs, disregarding a traffic control device, traffic light, “In a good way, we’re look- member who wants to buy the “We’re trying to work with country. This ground is better no/expired registration plates, and failure of non-owner/ ing at everything we do. We family farm has to get a loan everybody, our ag teachers, suited for forage,” he said. operator to maintain required insurance. triple and quadruple check ev- and access to credit is a chal- cattlemen’s association, with Not only would it be a rev- Also arrested and charged with alcohol intoxication erything that we do before we lenge for farmers,” he said. extension offices and every- enue stream for farmers, it was Samantha G. Durham, 34, of 317 Geneva-McKinney turn it in whether it’s a docu- “We’re going to try and help thing we can do, to bring more would also create jobs. Road, Hustonville, a passenger in the vehicle. ment, merit hire, or an expen- them as much as we can with profit to the farmer,” he said. “We have several compa- Robert T. Gilpin, 31, of 7955 South Ky. 501, Lib- diture. It’s a little frustrating a business plan, with lenders. I nies that are interested in com- erty, was arrested on Monday by Deputy Chad Weddle but it may be good at the end have a relationship with every Industrial hemp ing to Kentucky, creating jobs on South Ky. 501 and charged with operating a motor of the day,” he said. major ag lender in the state, so Comer said that one product, by opening plants if we can vehicle under the influence of alcohol/drugs. Comer said that he wants we’re going to do everything if legalized by the state legisla- make it legal to grow indus- Dennis K. Emerson, 48, of 3243 Thomas Ridge his department to be 100 per- we can to help them get starred ture, could help preserve the trial hemp,” Comer said. Road, Dunnville, was arrested on Sunday on Thomas cent transparent. And to help in farming,” he said. family farm. Ridge Spur Road by Deputy Chad Weddle and charged Comer said that the average “On diversity, we need to LACKY with operating an ATV on the roadway and third offense reach that goal, Comer said In finding ways to help pre- that the ag department’s Web age of the farmer continues to consider things like industrial operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol/ go up in Kentucky but as he hemp, an alternative solution serve the family farm, Comer drugs. site — www.kyagr.com — pointed to the Woodrums’ now has a link to a transpar- travels around the state and to a long-term problem here Court records show that Emerson was in a wreck while visits with high school students that we need to support. We LACKY business as one way operating a Honda Rancher ATV. A dog on the back of the ency site launched by Gov. to accomplish that goal. Steve Beshear. It can be found in Future Farmers of America just learned that it’s environ- ATV was killed in the accident. programs, he’s encouraged. mentally friendly, basically “We want to help farm fam- Emerson was airlifted from Dutchman’s Market to the at www.opendoor.ky.gov. ilies any way we can. And this “That’s to help protect and “They’re sharp kids. Some simple and it works, so we University of Kentucky Medical Center in Lexington. Ju- want to go into farming, they just promote things like that,” is a perfect example of a need lie Philips, a spokeswoman for UK Medical Center, said preserve the Department of in Kentucky. We were getting Ag for future generations be- want to go to UK, Murray he said, adding that hemp is a on Monday that Emerson was in fair condition. State, Western, Eastern and get viable option for Kentucky’s bad press in Kentucky because cause there’s been so much we didn’t have a way to dis- bad press,” he said. into the state’s schools’ ag pro- farmers. grams,” Comer said. Industrially grown hemp is pose of dead animals. Farm- Man cited for theft Future farmers of Ky.? currently being used to make ers were having to put them in With the decline of the fam- Kentucky Proud paper, high-end clothing, and sinkholes because they didn’t Kevin Foley, 38, of 6408 North U.S. 127, Middleburg, ily farm in the state, Comer Comer placed special em- car parts. have any other options. Hope- was cited on Oct. 2 by Deputy Chad Weddle accusing said that action must be taken phasis on the Kentucky Proud However, it is illegal to grow fully, there’ll be more of these him of theft by unlawful taking under $500. Court re- to insure that future genera- program, specifically de- industrial hemp in the state. around the state,” Comer said. cords state that Foley admitted to taking about 50 feet of electric copper wire from David Ponder’s old saw mill in November 2011. The value of the wire is estimated Plenty between $200 and $250. ■ Continued from front plant so that they’d be ready to “Her project is a model for $2-3 a piece for the pumpkins Man charged with having forged check “I’ve learned a lot with Mr. harvest in time for the festival, hours taking care of the crop, what we like to see for an SAE project,” Godbey said. “It’s an He also thought it could be Godbey and Will’s help,” Kara hoeing weeds during the hot- a good source for pumpkins at Kara had help from her parents, opportunity to make money, to get experience and provide a said. Mr. Godbey and Stallard. test part of the summer and community service. It’s a really good example of what a super- the second annual Kentucky From picking out the seeds When the first year went spending three nights picking vised agricultural experience is. I use her as an example a lot.” Heritage Days in 2010, so he to figuring out when she should them. asked if she would grow and well, Stallard, who is also a Leanne said that it’s some- thing they can do together. Heritage Days committee “It truly is a lot of work, but we do it as a family,” Leanne sell them for the festival. member, asked if she could do said. “It’s a good family proj- ect.” “She wanted to donate them,” he said. “It’s grown 1,000. The outcome of their labor can be seen at Heritage Days, “But the weather last year which is Kara’s favorite part about growing and donating each year from that.” was bad,” said Leanne, Kara’s the pumpkins. The summer before her sophomore year Kara grew and mother. “So instead she gave “I like to see all the little kids get their pumpkin,” Kara said. them 1,000 pieces — some As a scholarship commit- tee chair with the FFA chapter, donated 450 pumpkins.When it pumpkins, some gourds and she’ll get to do just that next Friday when the committee came time to get the pumpkins to the festival, Will Stallard, ornamental pumpkins.” members volunteer during the festival. This year she picked two dif- “That’s Kara. She likes to think about other people,” ag agent for Casey County’s ferent varieties of seeds in case Godbey said. Cooperative Extension Office, Stallard agrees. came out to the family’s farm it was another dry, hot sum- mer. “Kara could probably get on Red Hill Road to get the “And we planted more seed pumpkins and was impressed with Kara’s hard work. than we needed,” Kara said. “We’ve got well over 1,000 “It’s a wonderful thing,” pumpkins.” Stallard said. Stallard soon became an- Even though the weather was better this year, they didn’t other agricultural resource for sprout up over night without Kara to reach out to for infor- mation. help. Kara and her parents spent
and there are markets out there, but she’s been donating these Keith D. Campbell, 38, to Heritage Days,” Stallard of 199 South Lucas St., said. “It’s people like her that Junc- tion City, was make a community event like arrested on Oct. 3 at his this possible and successful.” residence by Of- ficer Leanne thinks some credit Doug Combs on a should go to those who have warrant stating that helped Kara throughout the last Campbell was in three years. possession of forged “I’m proud of my daughter checks payable to as I know the time and effort it Goldenrod Feeds for takes to raise and then donate $3,984 and $1,245 these pumpkins, but I also think allegedly drawn by Jerry this is a wonderful example of Mountjoy on Woodforest how our community works National Bank, court together,” Leanne said. “Both records state. Mr. Godbey and Will have worked together with Kara and provided an excellent opportu- Pair charged nity for her to have a hands on educational agricultural train- with meth ing experience while provid- ing a free, fun activity for our elementary students.” precursor Edward Gaines, 51, of Kentucky Heritage Days 809 Gritton St., Liberty, will be 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, and Sally Ruby Couch, 22, Oct. 19, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m of the same address, were Saturday, Oct. 20, at the Cen- arrested on Oct. 2 by tral Kentucky Ag/Expo Center. Deputy Jamie Walters and charged with first offense unlawful distribution of a meth precursor. Court records indicate that Gaines admitted to buying pseu- doephedrine and selling it knowing that its use was to manufacture meth.
Pair charged with burglary Brian Floyd, 22, and Brittney Floyd, 22, of 3316 Hen- son Creek Road, Liberty, were cited by Deputy Chad Weddle charging them with second-degree burglary, theft by unlawful taking over $500, and third- degree criminal mischief. According to court records, the two, along with two other unnamed individuals, admitted to entering a home in October 2009 and taking $34 cash and cloth- ing, and breaking a window to gain entry.
Composting made easy Casey County Field Day provides demonstration to multi-county landowners
By Kimberly Bartley
Division of Conservation
n October 2012, about 75 landowners the bacteria decon1posc the carcass. Six cost-share progran1that will help reim I and county representatives gathered on weeks later only bones will re1na in and the burse livestock owners for their dead Brent Woodrum 's far1n in Casey County 1nulch material can be used again. animal pickup expenses. to get a look at his composting operation. This can be done on eve1y fann in the "Since Casey County lost its animal Woodn1m is only the second landowner in country; however, most landowners are disposal service several years ago, the Kentucky to provide a livestock compost scared of the process. It is a win-win situ conservation district has worked to find a ing operation that will serve multiple ation with no odor, no scavengers or threat solution to this impo1tant environmental counties. of water pollution. issue," said Lonnie Mullins, chai rman of Originally, the idea of co1nposting It also offers the perfect solution to the Casey County Conservation District. I livestock was foreign to most Kentucky many operations that have close neigh "Thanks to funding from the Kcntncky farmers. However, the University of I Depart1ne11t of Agriculture Com1nissioner Ja1nes Co111er (left) addresses landolvners and represen tatives during the Casey County Co111posting Field Day in October. Division of Conservation photo 15 Land, Ai r & Water http://eec.ky.gov A special thank you to the Kentucky Agriculture Development Board for funding the Kentucky Master Stocker Program. http://agpolicy.ky.gov/board/index.shtml Director Animal & Environmental Compliance University of Kentucky • Develop and Implement your AWQP • Managing Manure and Runoff • Managing Mud • Managing Water Gulf of Mexico Hypoxic Zone • This year: 5,840 sq. miles (3.7m acres/size of Connecticut) • Average over last 5 years: 5,176 sq. miles (3.3m acres) http://water.usgs.gov/nawqa/sparrow/gulf_findings 80% P and 71% N coming from agriculture Where Does the N and P Originate? Differences in Phosphorus and Nitrogen Delivery to the Gulf of Mexico from the Mississippi River Basin. Alexander, et al. Environ. Sci. Technol., 2008, 42 (3), pp 822–830 230,000 tons Total N and 38,000 tons Total P annually enter the Gulf of Mexico from the Mississippi River • 90,000+ miles streams and rivers in KY • Agriculture is the leading source of stream impairments in KY (KEEC, 2010) – Affecting 55% of impaired streams • Where ground water is near the surface or easily accessed (wells, sinkholes, porous soil, etc.) • In karst regions, there may be little infiltration into the soil before contaminants reach ground water • Federal Regulations (Stick) • Clean Water Act • Safe Drinking Water Act • Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act • More coming? • USDA Economic Programs (Carrot) • EQIP –MRBI • WQP • Conservation Compliance/HEL • CRP • Wetlands Reserve Program –State Regulation (Stick) –KPDES –KNDOP – Ag Water Quality Act (Insurance) –Voluntary Compliance –Ag Water Quality Act/Nutrient Management Plans –Conservation programs –Education KY Master Stocker Program Amanda Gumbert Water Quality Liaison UK College of Agriculture/KY Division of Conservation • 10+ acres in agriculture or forestry must develop a water quality plan • Plan includes Best Management Practices (BMPs) to protect water quality • Established the KY Ag Water Quality Authority • Multi-agency committee • Developed the KY Ag Water Quality State Plan • Tasked with reviewing BMPs, implementing the Act • Anyone farming or raising trees on 10+ acres • Anyone applying for cost share – Kentucky Soil Erosion and Water Quality Cost Share Program (State cost share) – NRCS Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) – GOAP County Ag Investment Program (CAIP) • A plan is the list of BMPs to be implemented on the farm to protect water quality –Livestock –Crops –Pesticides and Fertilizers –Farmstead –Forestry –Streams and Other Waters • Plans should be up-to-date and reflect current farm activities • The self-certification is NOT your Ag Water Quality Plan This is NOT your Ag Water Quality Plan, this is only the self-certification sheet. • Complaints reported to the KY Division of Water – Corrective Measures process is followed 1. Web tool: www.ca.uky.edu/awqa 2. Print document Select BMPs that you have already implemented. The selected BMPs represent your current AWQP. Take note of other BMPs that could apply to your operation, keeping in mind that research has shown that multiple BMPs are often necessary to trap, control, and prevent pollution from leaving your farm. Any additional BMPs and the date they were implemented can be added to this document to reflect an updated AWQP, or producers may chose to create a new AWQP by visiting the web tool using the following link: www.ca.uky.edu/awqa. multiple BMPs are often necessary to trap, control, and prevent pollution Nutrient Management and the Kentucky Agriculture Water Quality Plan Mississippi Chapter – American Society of Agronomy November 13, 2014 Amanda Gumbert Water Quality Liaison UK College of Agriculture, Food & Environment/KY Division of Conservation Gulf of Mexico Hypoxic Zone • 2013: 5,840 sq. miles (3.7m acres/size of Connecticut) • Average over last 5 years: 5,176 sq. miles (3.3m acres) 2014: 5,052 sq. miles (3.7m acres/size of Connecticut) http://water.usgs.gov/nawqa/sparrow/gulf_findings 80% P and 71% N coming from agriculture Where Does the N and P Originate? Differences in Phosphorus and Nitrogen Delivery to the Gulf of Mexico from the Mississippi River Basin. Alexander, et al. Environ. Sci. Technol., 2008, 42 (3), pp 822–830 230,000 tons Total N and 38,000 tons Total P annually enter the Gulf of Mexico from the Mississippi River What’s Going On In Kentucky? Current Situation • 90,000+ miles streams and rivers in KY • Agriculture is the leading source of stream impairments in KY (KEEC, 2012) – Affecting 46% of impaired streams Sensitive Areas • Where ground water is near the surface or easily accessed (wells, sinkholes, porous soil, etc.) • In karst regions, there may be little infiltration into the soil before contaminants reach ground water Karst Regions of Kentucky How Does Kentucky Agriculture Respond? Agriculture Water Quality Plans KY Agriculture Water Quality Act • 10+ acres in agriculture or forestry must develop a water quality plan • Plan includes Best Management Practices (BMPs) to protect water quality Who needs a plan? • Anyone farming or raising trees on 10+ acres • Anyone applying for cost share – Federal: NRCS Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), etc. – State: Kentucky Soil Erosion and Water Quality Cost Share Program – Local: County Ag Investment Program What is a plan? • A plan is the list of BMPs to be implemented on the farm to protect water quality – Livestock – Crops – Pesticides and Fertilizers – Farmstead – Forestry – Streams and Other Waters • Plans should be up-to-date and reflect current farm activities How Do Farmers Develop a Plan? 1. Use a web-based tool: www.ca.uky.edu/awqa 2. Use a printed document 3. Get assistance from local Conservation District How is the KY Ag Water Quality Act enforced? • Complaints reported to the KY Division of Water • Inspectors visiting operations for routine inspection (permit holders) • Inspectors drive by a questionable operation How is Nutrient Management Related to the KY Ag Water Quality Plan? • Livestock BMP #11 – Nutrient Management • Crops BMP #14 – Nutrient Management This is NOT new! AWQA Minimum Requirements - Old • Comply with NRCS Code 590 (2001) • Manage manure in a manner that prevents degradation of water, soil, air, and that protects public health and safety. • Sufficient land must be available for a disposal area without overloading soils or exceeding crop requirements. • Minimize edge-of-field delivery of nutrients where no setbacks are required. What Changed? • Updates to KY NRCS 590 • N and P Risk Assessments must be used on every field – A new N and P Index have been developed – Producers no longer have the choice to choose a P threshold vs. a P index approach for planning nutrient applications (2001) • Every application field must have a RUSLE2 soil loss assessment – Soil loss tolerance levels must not be exceeded What Changed? • The KY NRCS 590-based CNMP is complex, requires TSPs, and a waiting period • The AWQA has added another option for developing NMPs AWQA Minimum Requirements - New • Comply with NRCS Code 590 (2013) or KyNMP (UK Pub – ID-211 Kentucky Nutrient Management Planning Guidelines). • Manage manure in a manner that prevents degradation of water, soil, air, and that protects public health and safety. • Sufficient land must be available for a disposal area without overloading soils or exceeding crop requirements. • Minimize edge-of-field delivery of nutrients where no setbacks are required. -Nutrients - Crops generated grown plus - Without -Existing soil fertility overloading soils SOLIDS WORKSHEET 1 - ESTIM ATING NUTRIENTS GENERATED PER CONFINEM ENT PERIOD 1. Nutrients Generated (As Excreted) Animal Type Percent Confinement Number of Average b Animal Unit x Waste as x / 1000 x Period = N P205 K20 See List Animals Weight (lbs) Days Solid a (days/year) N = P2O5 = x x / 1000 x = 0 x K2O = N = P2O5 = x x / 1000 x = 0 x K2O = N = P2O5 = x x / 1000 x = 0 x K2O = Step 1 Total = 0 0 0 2. Manure Generated (As Excreted) (lbs) Animal Unit Days x Manure/A.U. = Volume of Manure (cu.ft.) x = x = x = Step 2 Total = 0 cu.ft. 3. Total Tons Step 2 / Conversion Factor = Total Tons / = / = / = Step 3 Total = 0 tons NP205 K20 4. Weighted Nutrient Values Before Nutrient Losses Step 4 Total = 0.0 0.0 0.0 (lbs/ton) SOLIDS WORKSHEET 2 - NUTRIENT BALANCE Tract Field No. Acres Soil Test P Value (Mehlich 3) 1 . Crop or Crop Sequence/Rotation 2 . Realistic Yield (Average from 5-10 Years) N P205 K20 3 . Plant Nutrients Needed or Allowed (lbs/ac) 4 . Adjusted P2O5 Application Rate According to Threshold Choose P2O5 (x) 0 5 . Fertilizer Credits (lbs/ac) Starter or Other 6 . Plant Nutrients Needed Minus Credits (lbs/ac) #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! Step 3 for N (-) Step 5 (-) Step 6 or Step 4 for P2O5 (-) Step 5 7 . Nutrients in Manure (lbs/ton) 0.0 0.0 0.0 Enter lab results in box on right to override Worksheet 1 values 8 . Percent Nutrients Retained in System Table 1 Enter Table 1 values or Enter zero if lab results are used in Step 7 9 . Net Retained Nutrients in Manure (lbs./ton) 0.0 0.0 0.0 Step 8 x Step 9 (Enter zero with lab analysis) 10 . Percent of Available Nutrients 80% 100% Enter Table 2 value for N Table 2 11 . Net Available Nutrients (lbs./ton) 0.0 0.0 0.0 Step 10 x Step 11 without lab analysis or 12 . Application Rate (tons/ac) #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! Application limitations may apply. Do not exceed phosphorus application rate. Enter Chosen Application Rate in box on right Implement a phosphorus drawdown plan. 13 . Net Application Amount for All Nutrients (lbs/ac) 0 0 0 Step 12 x Step 13 14 . Nutrient Needs (-) or Surpluses (+) (lbs/ac) #VALUE! #VALUE! #VALUE! Tons Available - Tons Applied in Field = Balance #VALUE! Step 14 x Field Acres Uniform Application Rate = #VALUE! ton/ac Worksheet 3 SOLIDS WORKSHEET 3 - APPLICATION RATES AND LAND REQUIREMENTS 1 Tract No. Planned Actual 2 Soil Test Planned Application Actual Application Solid or Implemented BMPs Field No. Acres Phosphorus Crop Rotation / Sequence Application Rate2 Application Rate2 Commercial (STP) Date or Timing (tons/ac) Date (tons/ac) Fertilizer (S or C) BMP Date KyNMP Summary • Similar concept as in NRCS 590 (2001/2013) – Inventory nutrients available (manures) – Determine crop needs – Distribute nutrients so that crop needs are met without overloading soils • Producer can write his/her own plan • Benefit = better understanding of their operation and nutrient management concepts • Adaptive management can improve efficiency, production, and economic returns Associated Issues • Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) – Localized incentive to restrict livestock access from water bodies, manage nutrients Associated Issues • Help for farmers – Conservation District staff – County Extension agents – Extension Associate for Nutrient Management Questions? Amanda Gumbert [email protected] Water Quality Liaison UK College of Agriculture, Food & Environment/KY Division of Conservation Kentucky Nutrient Management Plan (KyNMP) Training Sponsored by: University of Kentucky College of Agriculture Kentucky Association of Conservation District Employees (KACDE) Description: Designed for Conservation District personnel, Conservation District supervisors and other service providers interested in learning how to best serve their agriculture community. You Will Learn: General concepts concerning water quality issues & regulations that apply to agriculture operations. How to develop KY Ag Water Quality Plans to create the greatest benefit to the producer AND to the environment. How to create a Nutrient Management Plan for different types of agricultural operations using the Kentucky Nutrient Management Planning Guidelines (KyNMP). Details: Limited to 30 Participants/2-day Training. Training is FREE, but you MUST register, to participate by contacting Kylie Schmidt at [email protected] or call (859)257-3000 ext. 121 Each training is a 2-day Session, 9:00 A.M to 4:00 P.M. Participants may want to bring their own laptop, calculator, and paper. Breaks & Lunch - Provided on Site Dates & Locations: October 15th & 16th - Carrollton (Carroll Co.)—Carroll Co. Extension Office, 500 Floyd Drive, Carrollton, KY 41008 October 21st & 22nd - London (Laurel Co.)—Laurel Co. Public Library, 120 College Park Dr., London, KY 40741 November 19th-20th - West Liberty (Morgan Co.)—Morgan Co. Public Library January 21st-22nd - Bowling Green (Warren Co.)—Warren Co. Extension Office, 3132 Nashville Rd., Bowling Green, KY 42101 Contact Kylie Schmidt to register ([email protected] or call (859) 257-3000 ext. 121) These trainings are made possible in part by a grant from the Kentucky Division of Compliance Assistance.