2025 OkSARE PDP Model State Program Assistant

Commodities

Practices

OSU continues their drive to support the sustainability of Oklahoma agriculture by promoting economic viability; sound environmental/natural resource management, and awareness/recognition of social acceptability. This PDP POW will continue to support and enhance ongoing efforts. The targeted goal of this effort is to integrate sustainable agriculture practices into identified agricultural practices of this region while protecting the quality of our natural resources. Objectives remain to train agricultural professionals (OCES, LUES, federal/state agencies, mentor farmers and NGOs) in the concepts and practices of sustainable agriculture as well as disseminating information regarding sustainable agriculture through various outlets. Topics to be continued are low input cropping systems, developing methods and skills relating to local food production, sustainable livestock production grantsmanship and educating producers on sustainable business practices. Training will be provided through attendance at the national and regional level, experiential learning, demonstrations, tours, research presentations, online and small group in-service training. Documentation will be conducted on an on-going basis and evaluation of trainee knowledge, attitudes, skills, actions and behavioral changes will be tracked and reported.

These Outreach/Training objective topics have been selected through input from our advisory teams which assist OkSARE in developing strategies to encourage integrating regenerative and sustainable practices into Oklahoma agricultural operations.

• Low Input Cropping Systems) One hundred Educators and other Agricultural Professionals will be trained in the latest best management cropping system practices as related to the efficient use of farm inputs such as water usage and quality, appropriate nutrient application, advantageous crop/forage varieties and rotations, integrated pest management for plant insects/diseases and economical equipment decisions.
• Local Food Production) One hundred and twenty-five individuals will receive guidance in the most efficient fruit and vegetable production and preservation practices to include both organic and conventional management.
• Sustainable Livestock Production) One hundred and twenty-five Educators and appropriate Agricultural Professionals will receive training in efficient livestock management practices to include both large and small species, large- and small-scale production with respect to grazing land management, herd and flock nutrition/health and facility construction and maintenance.
• Grantsmanship) Fifty participants will receive information and support regarding grant opportunities available through Southern SARE and other appropriate granting agencies.
• Sustainable Business Practices) Seventy-five Professionals will receive training and support to promote sustainable business practices with historically underrepresented groups (Such as Young and Beginning Farmers, Urban Agriculture and Women in Agriculture and Small Business, tribal programs and others) with respect to record keeping, marketing, product development and financial planning. It is our belief that successful farms (both large and small-scale) will enhance the quality of life for rural dwellers and promote financial and emotional stability.