2020 Model State Program- University of Arkansas

Project Overview

SAR20-001
Project Type: PDP State Program
Funds awarded in 2020: $11,111.00
Projected End Date: 06/30/2022
Grant Recipient: University of Arkansas
Region: Southern
State: Arkansas
State Coordinator:
Dr. Amanda McWhirt
Email
University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension

Commodities

  • Agronomic: cotton, soybeans
  • Nuts: pecans
  • Animals: goats, sheep

Practices

  • Animal Production: animal protection and health, feed management
  • Crop Production: cropping systems, fertigation, irrigation, nutrient management, varieties and cultivars
  • Education and Training: extension, workshop

    Abstract:

    The Arkansas 2020-2021 SARE PDP Model State Program will focus on increasing knowledge and developing skills for pecan production, small ruminant livestock production, and soil health. The developed trainings and events will be made available to Cooperative Extension staff, UA and UAPB faculty, staff and students, USDA staff, farmers’ market managers, other agriculture professionals, and farmer leaders. Proposed activities include a workshop for pecan production, two webinars on best practices for small ruminants, speakers on cover crops and soil health, and travel scholarships for agriculture leaders to attend the SSAWG and Horticulture Industries Show annual conferences. Participants in these programs will be assessed for changes in knowledge, confidence, and ability to share new information. As a result of these opportunities, the knowledge, interest, and application of sustainable practices for Arkansas farmers and agriculture professionals will continue to expand in Arkansas, leading to thriving farms and vibrant communities.

    Project objectives:

    The objectives of this AR-SARE Model State project are:

    1) To increase the knowledge, awareness and resources for sustainable agriculture issues related to pecan production, small ruminant livestock and soil health, among extension agents, farmers market managers, farmer mentors and other agriculture leaders in Arkansas.

    2) To increase the confidence of extension agents, farmers market managers, farmer mentors and other Arkansas agricultural leaders in extending sustainable agriculture information and practices related to pecan production, small ruminant livestock and soil health.

    3) To increase the adoption of sustainable agriculture practices among farmers in Arkansas.

    Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture or SARE.