Developing a Training Program in Sustainable Vegetable Production for Agriculture Professionals in Kentucky and Tennessee

The University of Kentucky (UK), University of Tennessee (UT), and Kentucky State University (KSU) will collaborate to provide training in sustainable vegetable production for agriculture professionals. The long-term goal is to increase sustainably farmed and certified organic vegetable acreage in Tennessee and Kentucky. The immediate goal is to deliver lecture based and experiential training in sustainable vegetable farming. Topics will include sustainable vegetable production, the economic benefits of sustainable and organic farming, and importance of sustainable agriculture for the long-term prosperity of rural communities. Barriers between Extension personnel, traditionally trained in conventional production techniques, and organic farmers will be addressed. Trainings will be developed using organic and conventional grower input from each state and relevant materials generated from previously funded SARE projects,and materials developed specifically for this program. A two-state regional training exercise will also take place. Hands-on workshops will be held at the University of Tennessee Organic Research Farm, University of Kentucky Organic Farming Research and Education Unit and in conjunction with Kentucky State Universities Third Thursday program. A regional farm tour, highlighting successful organic farmers in the Southeast U.S. will occur to complement the hands-on field training. The effectiveness of the trainings will be evaluated using a feedback loop model and adjustments made as necessary. Websites will be developed containing training information and profiles from successful organic farms. This website will allow for continued dissemination of information developed from this program after the trainings have ended.