SARE Sustainable Ag Training Program (MSP)

With the transition of Dr. Vincelli into the Kentucky SARE Co-coordinator position comes new opportunities. Dr. Vincelli brings not only his plant pathology expertise, but also interest and experience in dealing with key sustainability issues including climate change, GMO technology and cover crops. Following our history, the Kentucky SARE leadership team (both coordinators and the program assistant) met with the Kentucky SARE Advisory Council to develop the Kentucky SARE planning agenda for the 2015-16 project year. With the AC’s input, the Model State Program at the University of Kentucky plans to include trainings for agricultural professionals, supported with its $10,000 SARE budget, through three activities: cover crops training workshop (being supported without SARE funds, but a collaborative project with SARE); the first stage of agent and ag leader training in “GAP” (Good Agricultural Practices); and a study tour of the SARE advisory committee to the Iowa Leopold Center as part of a long run planning process. A mini-grant opportunity will be provided to agents for a training they initiate which supports the Kentucky state sustainability plan. The February, 2014 Community Food Systems training will be expanded to a broader group of agents, but with other funding sources. Kentucky’s SARE advisory council (AC) has decided to meet at least twice per year, including one face-to-face meeting and the other(s) by conference call. A council member training opportunity will be conducted annually, starting with the Leopold Center trip. The AC farmer members will be on a three year rotation, with other positions connected with specific organizations and government entities (such as the NRCS and the Ky. Department of Agriculture).