North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service Application for Title Promotion

Transcription

1 Employee Name: XXXXXX XXXXXX North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service Application for Title Promotion Beginning Date in Current Position: XXXXXXXXX, XXXX Counties: XXXXXX, XXXXXX, XXXXXXX & XXXXXXXX Current Title Assistant Agent Associate Agent Assistant Area Specialized Agent Associate Area Specialized Agent Assistant Area Agent Associate Area Agent Title Being Sought Associate Agent Agent Associate Area Specialized Agent Area Specialized Agent Associate Area Agent Area Agent Employment Record Employer Title Dates XXXXXXX, Farm Management Agent XXXXXXX, Farm Management Agent Total Extension Experience as of July 1: XX Years XX Months Degree(s) Degree Institution Date Awarded Master of Agricultural Education XXXXXXXXXXX University XXXXX, XXXX Bachelor of Agricultural Education XXXXXXXXXXX University XXXX, XXXX Major area(s) of program responsibility: Area Farm Management Agent including (1) assist XXXXXXX in developing financial documents and long-range farm improvement and sustainability planning; and (2) enhance the XXXXXXX family s quality of life and income by providing information and educational programs that include, but are not limited to, farm management, record keeping, alternative enterprises, farm and home planning, marketing, and appropriate technology adaptations. XXXXXX XXXXXXX, Area Specialized Agent Farm Management

2 North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service Promotion Package - Extension Agents INTRODUCTION My name is XXXXXX XXXXXX, and I have been an Area Farm Management Agent for XXXXXX, XXXXXX and XXXXXX Counties since XXXX. My major responsibilities are to (1) assist XXXXXXX in developing financial documents and long-range farm improvement and sustainability planning, and (2) enhance the XXXXXXX family s quality of life and income by providing information and educational programs that include, but are not limited to, farm management, record keeping, alternative enterprises, farm and home planning, marketing, and appropriate technology adaptations. The following is a synopsis that highlights my XXXXXXX programs in XXXXXX, XXXXXX and XXXXXX Counties since XXXX. It was evident that despite the growing population in urban areas of XXXXXXX County, there remained a large, active rural population, most of which was engaged in agriculture. In fact, XXXXXXX County makes up XXXX% of the state s farmland in acres. It is ranked XXX in both the state and country for XXXX production with almost XXXXXXXXX. Likewise, XXXXXXX County makes up XXXX% of the state s farmland in acres. It is ranked XXX in both the state and in the country for XXXXXXXX. In addition, both counties rank XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX, so as you can see, these counties are extremely productive in agriculture. XXXXXXX make up 63% of XXXXXXX County s farmers, and of those, 81% are limited-resource farmers. In XXXXXXX County, 59% of farmers are XXXXXXX with 69% being limited-resource farmers. The average age of the farmers in these counties is 56 years old. State Objective: Profitable and Sustainable Agriculture Systems The need for my program areas is determined by my specialized XXXXXXX Advisory Committee. My advisory committee is made up of XXX individuals who represent my program areas. The committee is a diverse group, consisting of African American, White, and Hispanic/Latino male and female members. These members represent different geographical areas of the county and different crop areas. We meet two to three times a year to plan programs, meetings, and field days. I give out pre and post-test evaluations and surveys at meetings and field days to get feedback from producers on how to improve programming, materials, etc. Through utilization of an advisory leadership system for Small Scale Producers in Agricultural Risk Management, Alternative Enterprise, and USDA Farm Programs and Marketing, I have been able to determine the needs in the counties where my programming efforts should be focused. Page 2 of 20

3 I. Cooperative Extension Program(s) USDA Outreach Farm Programs From 20XX to 20XX, XXXXXXX were prevented from making their farm businesses more profitable and sustainable due to a lack of information pertaining to USDA programs. The USDA, the USDA 1890 Program Liaison at NC A&T State University, and myself conducted three outreach workshops linking XXXXXXX and landowners to agriculture housing programs. I contacted USDA representatives from USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA), Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), Risk Management Agency (RMA), Rural Development (RD) and Forest Service (FS); and those representatives conducted five outreach-training workshops for XXXXXXX at the Extension centers in XXXXXX, XXXXXX and XXXXXX counties. Our goal was to provide an educational training workshop to enable the XXXXXXX to gain knowledge and skills in how to seek help through USDA programs efficiently. The objectives were to make farmers aware of the different types of e-forms, where to obtain them, and their uses. XXX farmers from XXXXXXX County and XXXXX farmers from XXXXXXX County were trained how to go online to search and retrieve USDA FSA loan application forms, schedule F forms, etc. They also learned how to fill out forms, submit the completed forms, and search for forms by number, agency, and/or name. With this knowledge, small and limited-resource farmers were able to learn about the latest government programs and opportunities to make their farm operations more successful. In February 20XX, I partnered with XXXXXX, Area Farm Management agent in XXXXXX County, to conduct a 2014 Farm Bill Program, and Crop Insurance Training Session by using web-based tools. The purpose of this educational event is to provide row crop farmers with a better understanding of the new programs to assist them in program selection. XXXX XXXXX, XXXXXXXXXX County Director of the United States Department of Agriculture s Farm Service Agency, provided an overview of the Price Loss Coverage (PLC) and Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) programs established in the 2014 Farm Bill. A total of thirty-one farmers attended the training session. Evaluations A survey instrument was utilized to evaluate the participants knowledge learned in USDA Outreach Farm Programs and 2014 Farm Bill. The instrument was divided into two sections, one to collect demographic information and the other to obtain the skill level of the participant. The data collected were analyzed to determine the success of the program, and what areas needed improvement. Impacts As a result, 100% of the participants said they would recommend this training workshop to others; and 43% of the participants said they would apply for services with at least one USDA program. In addition, 100% of the row-crop farmers had signed up for new programs, and 77% of those farmers used the web-based tools to assist in making their selection. With these tools, row-crop farmers could build the confidence they need to make their farms more sustainable through the current farm bill. Page 3 of 20

4 Success Stories Due to the lack of formal education, many small and limited-resource farm families do not know what state or federal agricultural programs were available to them or didn t understand some of the eligibility requirements. In November 20XX, I partnered with XXX XXXXX XXXXXXX Group and NC Forest Service to conduct an outreach workshop on XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Farmers with agricultural resources. The outreach program helps farmers learn about loans, grants, forestry, environmental, and farm programs. Seventy participants attended the workshop. At the beginning of the workshop, 14% of the participants stated that they had limited knowledge of state and federal agricultural programs. Based on the results of the surveys conducted after the workshop, 86% of the participants reported a better understanding of federal and state agricultural programs and would now apply for agricultural programs that they otherwise would not have known about prior to the workshop. The XXXXXXX County XXXXXXX Program will continue to provide opportunities for small and limited-resource farm families to receive timely information. In November 20XX, I worked with the Community and Economic Extension specialists at NC A&T State University and assisted in the application process for farmers to attend an 18-month XXXXXXX Agricultural Leadership Institute training course funded by USDA s Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES). The Ag Leadership Institute is an 1890 system-wide, Land-grant Universities initiative, hosted by Southern University. In 20XX, XXX farmers in XXXXXX, XXXXXX and XXXXXX Counties were selected to attend the training. The purpose of the leadership training was to promote small- and family-farm sustainability by enhancing business-management skills and leadership development. A XXXXXXX s Agricultural Leadership Training Institute survey revealed the participants learned: (a) to develop and write a business plan and business etiquette; (b) SWOT analysis for setting up a business plan; (c) to network and communicate with people from a wide range of experiences and expertise; and (d) to become familiar with new companies and products on the market today. The end result from attending the workshops was that both participants gained more knowledge about business management and leadership development and were willing to share their experience with other farmers. Testimonials XXXXXX XXXXXX is a great asset to the XXXXXXX County community. XXXXX has assisted me with all of my questions I have regarding crops, livestock, insurance, and conservation, 2014 farm bill through USDA- FSA, NRCS, and RMA agriculture program. As a local farmer, the XXXXXX community is truly blessed to work with XXXXXXX. XXXX is always keeping us informed about the USDA Outreach Workshops in XXXX newsletter and is always prompt in latest information. It has also been a rewarding experience to work with XXXX. XXXXXX is giving back to the local community by educating XXXXXXX about agriculture and the effect it has on our everyday life. Thanks!! XXXX XXXXXX, XXXXXXX County I would like to thank XXXXXX for hosting the USDA Outreach meeting in XXXXXXX County. As a result of my attendance, I was able to receive assistance from USDA NRCS EQUIP and high tunnel constructed on my property. The information provided at the meeting made me become aware of the assistances available from the NC Cooperative Extension Service and the participating USDA agencies. Thank You!! XXXX XXXX, XXXXXXX County Page 4 of 20

5 XXXXXX, the information I received at the USDA Outreach Meeting -: Linking XXXXXXX to USDA Programs: A Small Outreach Meeting on Linking Resources to Farmers and Landowners was very informative. I would like to thank you for coordinating this meeting with the various USDA agencies. The small group setting allowed me to ask questions more freely. Quite frankly, the information was very timely because it provided me the opportunity to learn about the new 2014 Farm Bill highlights that will provide benefits to my farm. XXXX XXXXX, XXXXXXX County High-Tunnel Production Program Small-scale produce farmers are constantly searching for new and innovative methods to extend their growing season and maximize profits. From XXXX to XXXX, I developed XXXX educational workshops showcasing the benefits of high-tunnel production, intended for beginner, part-time, limited and XXXXXXX in XXXXXX, XXXXXX and XXXXXX Counties. The first workshop was intended for beginner high-tunnel growers or growers interested in purchasing their first high tunnel. Extension specialists and associates were present to discuss the basics of high-tunnel production including: fertility, irrigation, integrated pest and disease management, site selection, tunnel orientation, and crop selection. Also, a representative from Natural Resources Conservation Service was available to discuss a cost-share program to assist in the purchase of high-tunnel greenhouses. There was an intensive effort to assist XXXXXXX to plant specialty crops, where we showed them the advantages of using plastic mulch and drip irrigation. A total of XX persons attended the workshop. Since 20XX, XXX farmers in XXXXXXX County and XXX farmers in XXXXXXX County received a $XXXX grant each through the cost-sharing Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP) to install a high-tunnel on their farm. In the future, small/part-time farmers can continue to benefit from educational opportunities provided by Cooperative Extension. Evaluations A survey instrument was utilized to evaluate the participants knowledge learned in the high tunnel program. The instrument was divided into two sections, one to collect demographic information and the other to obtain the skill level of the participant. The data collected were analyzed to determine the success of the program, and what areas needed improvement. Impacts As a result, 86% of the farmers said they would apply information from the workshop to diversify their operation; and 83% said they would install a high tunnel using plastic mulch and drip irrigation. XXX farmers in XXXXXXX County and three farmers in XXXXXXX County have planted fruits and vegetables using drip irrigation, and have over $XXXXX in extra income. Page 5 of 20

6 Success Story Small-scale produce farmers are constantly searching for new methods and varieties to extend the growing season and maximize profits. To assist these farmers, the area farm management agent with the XXXXXXX County Cooperative Extension and Extension associates from XXXXXXX Program provided an educational workshop in April XXXX, showcasing the benefits of high-tunnel greenhouses, which extend the crop production season. High-tunnel greenhouses utilize plastic mulch and drip irrigation, which allow farmers to have earlier crops, higher yields, and better quality. A total of XX people attended the workshop. Evaluations revealed that 86% of the farmers would apply information from the workshop to diversify their operation, and 83% would install a plasticulture system using plastic mulch and drip irrigation. With these new sources of income, the family farm can be sustained. Due to the success of the program, more updates and workshops will be held in the future. Testimonials XXXXXXX is always on top of XXXX job. I have calls with many concerns in issue with my high tunnel, if XXXXX does not know the answer, XXXX will research and us with an answer/solution very promptly. XXXX is always there to assist the farmers in any manner within XXX power. XXXX XXXXXXXX, XXXXXX County XXXXXX, I would like to thank-you and XXXXX, XXXX for everything you have done to help me with my high tunnel greenhouse in my first year as I mention to you that high tunnel is new to me. You both has been a true blessing to me in assisting with soil sample, setting-up drip irrigation system, insect and pest management and developing crop production plan. XXXX XXXXXX, XXXXXXX County XXXXXX XXXXX Program North Carolina is XXXXXX production in the United States, where XXXX million are XXXXXX annually. The XXXXXXX and XXXXXXX County s Cooperative Extension Centers began working with XXXXXXXXX growers in XXXXXXXXXX North Carolina. From 20XX through 20XX, in conjunction with livestock agents in XXXXXX, XXXXXX and XXXXXX Counties, I organized XXXXX growers schools for XXXXXXXXX producers. In an effort to assist small-scale XXXXXproducers in receiving a premium market price for their products, the livestock agent in XXXXXXX and XXXXXXX Counties and I partnered with North Carolina A&T State University and North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension associates and specialists to conduct a workshop to assist in XXXXXXX management record-keeping, alternative grains, supplements, grazing on rotational cover crop, and economical methods for feeding XXXXX, meat quality, XXXXX health, herd breeding stock, and improving production financial, recordkeeping, marketing, and animal-welfare approved specification etc. Due to the lack of knowledge, small-scale XXXXX producers were unaware of the importance of developing a complete comprehensive animal health management plan. The XXXXX plan fosters the safe transporting and handling of value-added products. In order to be considered as a supplier for a specialty food buyers, the farmer must have developed a complete animal health-management plan. From 20XX to 20XX, I Page 6 of 20

7 assisted XXX farmers in XXXXXXX County and XXX farmers in XXXXXXX County with developing an animal health-management plan. With my assistance, the farmers were able to sell to an approved market. Evaluations Follow-up phone surveys and interviews were conducted with XXXX farmers at the end of XXXXXX year. Impacts As a result, XXXX XXXXXXXXXX producers were able to sell their value-added product directly to specialty retail markets. Based on phone follow-up conversations with the farmers, a total of XXX XXXXX were marketed and each received an average of $XXXX per XXXXX. The farm income reported ranged from $XXXXX to $XXXXXX. The combined income earned for all participants was $XXXX with an average income increase of $XXXXXX. Success Story In 20XX, the area farm management agent in XXXXXXX County assisted a total of XXXX farmers from XXXXXX, XXXXXX and XXXXXX counties in developing an animal health management plan. If not for the assistance, the farmers would be unable to sell to an approved market. As a result XXXXXXXX producers are now able to sell their value-added product directly to specialty retail markets. Based on phone follow-up conversations with the farmers a total of XXX XXXXXXX were marketed and each received an average of $XXXX per XXXXX. The farm income reported ranged from $XXXXXX to $XXXXXX. The combined income earned for all participants was $XXXXXXX, with an average income increase of $XXXXXX. Testimonials Thanks to XXXXXXXXX, for coming out to my farm and providing some one-on-one technical assistance in helping me with my animal health management plan. XXX has great assets to the XXXXXXX in XXXXXXX County. Through XXXX help I am now able sell XXXXX to upscale restaurants and super markets, which has increased my farm income. Thanks! XXXX XXXX, XXXXXXX County XXXXXXX, you along with XXXXXX staff have truly made a difference in our farming technique and ability to increase the productivity of our farm with the knowledge that we have obtained and applied through XXXXXXXXX School monthly attendance. Our XXXXX sales to high end restaurants have increased our income 60% over the past XX years. Again, thanks for all your assistance and resources. XXXXX & XXXX XXXXXXXX, XXXXXXX County XXXXXXX, I would like to take this time to thank you for your assisting me in helping me with animal health management plan and what you have done for my farm. Because of the XXXXXXXX school, I have been able to do a better job in keeping records on my farm operation. You have always been available for help with questions or direct me to a person that I need to talk to with my questions and with solutions to my problems. XXXX XXXXXX, XXXXXXX County Page 7 of 20

8 Webpage Design and Internet Marketing XXXXXXX in XXXXXXX North Carolina were lagging behind the internet-commerce trend. These farms are unaware of how important it is to learn about and take advantage of the communication power of the Internet for advertising and selling their farm products and services. Without this knowledge and confidence, they were unaware and incapable of benefiting from the increased customer awareness that builds farm income and comes directly from having an effective web presence and address. To address the educational problem, the XXXXXX, XXXXXX and XXXXXX Cooperative Extension Centers collaborated with XXXXXXXXXXX, Area Farm Management Agent in XXXXXXX County in partnership with XXXXXXX Community College to use a computer lab to conduct a hands-on regional webpage-design workshop from 20XX through 20XX. The focus of the workshop was listing farms on the web and creating farm-business addresses. XXXX farmers participated in the program. As a result, all of those farmbusiness owners have the potential to increase their farm income. Evaluations An evaluation was administered to the participants through the use of a pretest and posttest. The instruments were divided into two sections: demographic information and evaluation of the training. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings were reported in numbers, percentages, and averages. Impacts With the creation of their web pages, these limited-resource farmers are able to compete and successfully market their products in today s global economy. As a result of this workshop: Success Story 30% of the farmers reported an increase in income Increased the number of their customers by 15% and changed their marketing practice by using the web Income increase ranged from $XXX $XXXXX Average income increase per farmer was $XXXXX Combined income increase reported was $XXXXXX In 20XX, XXXXXXX and XXXXXXX County Centers of the NCCE partnered with XXXXXXX Community College Small Business Center to conduct a hands-on workshop entitled, XXXXXXX XXXXXXX XXXXXXX. The workshop covered materials for listing their farm on the web and setting up their farm business . After participating in this class, XXX farm business owners learned how to obtain and use personal and business accounts and how to post and update their farm products and services information on their webpage at NCDA services General Store Web site: Page 8 of 20

9 This experiential workshop has built participants confidence in the skills to market their products themselves on the web. Based on market research, website promotion could potentially provide a 30% increase in customer-base business. Since XXXX, XXXXXX farm-business owners have the potential to increase their farm income by as high as 30%, just like past farmers. They also increased the number of their customers by 15% and changed their marketing practice by using the web. Testimonials XXXXXX XXXXXX is a special county agent. Whenever I call or have any questions or need information pertaining to my farming operation, XXXX is always there when I need help. Since having a webpage, I had several hits from our website from vendors who want to purchase tomatoes and zucchini squash. I d like to thank XXXXXXX for XXX time in teaching me how to develop our webpage. The webpage marketing design workshop was truly different. XXXX XXXXX, XXXXXXX County XXXXXXXXX XXXXXX has been very helpful to XXXXXX, XXXXXX and XXXXXX County XXXXXXX. XXX initiated the XXXXXXX class that was held in XXXXXXX County. I attended the class and designed a web page for my farm. It was beneficial to everyone who attended. It is the involvement and relationship that XXXXX has that makes XXXXX an asset to the county. XXXXX is willing to help anyone anytime and does a great job at it. XXXX also visits my farm to assist in collecting soil samples and helped me getting my farm certified organic. XXXX XXXXXXXX, XXXXXXX County I would like to thank XXXXXXXXXX and the Extension staff at XXXXXXXX for sending information and inviting us to participate in the XXXXXXXXXX workshop your assistance in helping us design our webpage was outstanding. The webpage design workshop has helped us market and promote our grape vineyard with other vendors through the World Wide Web. I can t forget the difference you have made for me through this program. Thank you for this opportunity. XXXX XXXXXXXX, XXXXXXX County XXXXXXX XXXXXXXX Project According to University of Florida/IFAS Extension s XXXXXXX Academy, XXXXXXX XXXXXXX are the XXXXXX widely produced XXXXXX in the United States, ranked behind XXXXXXX. In the U.S., XXX million pounds of XXXXXXX XXXXXXX were produced in 20XX. U.S. production started in the early 1970 s and has spread to production areas in Florida, Alabama, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. XXXXXXX were faced with the challenge of finding alternative enterprises as a sources of income. I spent 25% of my time helping farmers come up with ways that they can supplement their loss due to the elimination of the tobacco program and low prices for traditional row crops. In 20XX, I partnered with XXXXXXXXXXXExtension associates and the Extension horticulture agent in XXXXXXX County to conduct a XXXXXXX XXXXXXX workshop and hands-on training in XXXXXXX County. The purpose of the training is to help farmers learn how to establish a successful XXXXXXX XXXXXXX operation. Each participant brought XXXXXXX XXXXXXX to the workshop. The XXXXXXX XXXXXXX in North Carolina Curriculum was used to train the participants. XXXX participants from XXXXXXX, XXXX, XXXXX, XXXXXXX, and XXXXX counties participated in the program. Page 9 of 20

10 Evaluations Pre- and post-tests were used to evaluate the program. XXXX participants completed both the pre and post-test evaluations. XXX participants have started their XXXXXXX XXXXXXX operation in XXXXXXX and XXXXXX Counties. The farm management agent plans to follow-up with participants in six months to determine net income earned. Impacts As a result of the workshop: 73% of the said that will maintain record of log production as a result of the training; 59% of the participant said that they were satisfied of the overall quality of the training; and 31% of the participant said that will explore the possibility of growing shiitake commercially. Follow-up visits with XXX participants XXXXXXXX have already started their XXXXXXX XXXXXXX operation in XXXXXXX and XXXXXXX Counties. They have explored a potential marketing outlet that agree to pay $XXXX per pound for XXXXX during 20XX. Success Story Based on conversation with the farmers in XXXXXX, XXXXXX and XXXXXX Counties, they were interested in XXXXXXX XXXXXXX as an alternative crop. XXXXXXX XXXXXXX could provide additional net farm income with low input cost investment. According to XXXXXXXXX evaluation results, farmers could earn $XX to $XX per pound selling XXXXXX directly to the consumers. XXXXXXX and XXXXXXX Counties partnered with the XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX to conduct a XXXXXXX XXXXXXX training. Half of the participants moved forward producing XXXXXXX XXXXXXX, with around XX participants that directly received XXXXXXXXXXX from XXXXXXXXXXXXXX. Testimonials XXXXX, thank you. Your kindness was appreciated for the information that you sent me on the XXXXXX workshop and hands-on training! I also appreciate you including the course book on XXXXXX XXXXXXX XXXXXXX in North Carolina. Thanks! XXXX XXXXX, XXXXXXX County Fantastic Workshop, XXXXXXXX! My sister and I am going to consider growing XXXXXXX XXXXXXX as an alternative enterprise that will provide an additional source of income. The workshop was a very informative and easy to understand and to the point. Thank you. XXXXXXX XXXXX, XXXXXXX County XXXXXXX, I want thank you and the extension staff for outstanding workshop. I was able to gain knowledge on XXXXXXX XXXXXXX Production, selecting site, cost, types of hardwood and how to XXXXXXXX. Thanks! XXXX XXXXXX, XXXXXXX, County Page 10 of 20

11 Risk Management and Record-Keeping Program Many small and socially-disadvantaged farmers were faced with challenges as they attempted to manage risks associated with farming. These challenges included high input and energy costs, fewer off-farm employment opportunities, increased financial and marketing risks, and weather. In order to address these challenges, I conducted a series of Risk Management Workshops in XXXXXXX, XXXXXXX and XXXXXXX counties. The workshops focused on teaching farmers and ranchers how to develop Personal Risk Management Plans. The workshop was opened to all interested persons. The goal of the project was to assist farmers and ranchers in North Carolina respond to risk in the special emphasis areas of production, marketing, financial, legal, and human resource management. The workshops were held in partnership with the United States Department of Agriculture Risk Management Agency and National Crop Insurance Services. A team of XX Extension agents assisted in recruiting potential participants, helping with homework assignments through farm and office visits, telephone calls, and making follow-up contacts with participants. The workshops focused on teaching farmers how to understand and implement farm business planning principles for successful risk management decision-making. Evaluations After each workshop, participants were contacted by phone, farm visit, office visit, or for progress updates or to answer questions regarding homework assignments. After the final workshop, each participant completed a project evaluation, which included a pre and post-test. Impacts A total of XX farmers attended the workshops. The farmers learned new risk management tools and services along with those already established. By the end of the last workshop, 100% of the participants had completed a personal risk management plan. Surveys conducted showed participants have saved $XXXXXX collectively by implementing changes. Survey results also showed a majority of the farmers are now in the process of completing the tasks listed in their risk management plans. With these tools, local farmers can build the confidence they need to deal with both future risks and opportunities. Success Story Many XXXXXXX in XXXXXXX County were faced with challenges as they attempted to manage risks associated with farming. These challenges include high input and energy costs, fewer off-farm employment opportunities, increased financial and marketing risks, and weather. In order to address these challenges, XXXXXXX County Cooperative Extension hosted a series of Risk Management Workshops. The workshops were held in partnership with the United States Department of Agriculture Risk Management Agency and National Crop Insurance Services. A team of Cooperative Extension agents assisted in recruiting potential participants and making follow-up contacts with participants. The workshops focused on teaching farmers how to understand and implement farm business planning principles for successful risk management decision-making. A total of XX farmers attended the workshops. The farmers learned new risk Page 11 of 20

12 management tools and services along with those already established. By the end of the last workshop, 100% of the participants had completed a personal risk management plan. Surveys conducted showed participants have saved $XXXXX collectively by implementing changes learned in the workshops. Survey results also showed a majority of the farmers are now in the process of completing the tasks listed in their risk management plans. With these tools, local farmers can build the confidence they need to deal with both future risks and opportunities. In 20XX, I did a follow-up survey with XX of the XX participants, which showed they have increased farm income by a total of $XXXXXX collectively by implementing the changes listed on their personal plans. Some of the changes included: adding high tunnel greenhouses, decreasing feed input costs, improving XXXXX breeding stock, installing livestock shelter, installing new irrigation systems, reducing input costs and increasing crop yields. With these tools, local farmers can build the confidence they need to deal with both future risks and opportunities. Testimonials In 20XX, I partnered with XXXXXX XXXXXX implementing a project helping limited resource farmers develop personal risk management plans. For this project, applied education consisting of three sequential workshops (18 hours total), supplemented by personal assignments (60 hours) and individualized counseling was delivered via a partnership of subject matter experts and local educators. XXXXX recruited the participants, helped with the instruction, and supervised the individualized counseling with farmers. This was an extremely effective program, and the success of this project was due largely to XXXXXXX s hands-on leadership and hard work. It was evident that XXX was highly respected and trusted by the farmers XXX worked with because of his dedication to helping them understand and implement the principles taught as they developed their own personal risk management plans. XXXXX XXXXX, XXXXXXXXXXX After going through the risk management practices taught to us by the most capable instructors, we went back and developed a plan that would not only protect our farm, but make it cost efficient. This class allowed us to take an in-depth look at our operation and make critical decisions that will have positive effects for the future. I would recommend this class to anyone who s in farming or plans to get into farming. XXXXXXX, XXXXXXXX and XXXXXXXX were very knowledgeable about the business of farming. The Business Plan will allow you to go to the financial institution and present a detailed plan. The course also taught the importance of good recordkeeping. I am forever grateful for the opportunity that this class afforded my son and me. The plan that we have in place now will ensure the future and legacy of XXXXX Farms. XXXXXXXXXXXX, XXXXXXXXX Farms LLC., XXXXXXX County Over the past few weeks have been very busy. XXXXX production on the farm has nearly doubled & the demand for farm fresh produce is climbing. These among other factors lead me to believe that the Risk Management Workshop was a big success and very helpful. Participating in the group exercises allowed me to think of common situations in a different way. It made me take notice to more of the fine details ultimately improving my bottom line. As I go about my day-to-day routine, now I perform them more Page 12 of 20

13 effectively and always consider room for improvement. Thank you XXXXXXX and Risk Management for all the support and inspiration you give me and I look forward to talking again with you in the future. XXXXXXXXX, XXXXXXXXXXXXX Farms, XXXXXXX County My name is XXXXXXX. I am a XXXXXXXXXX farmer in XXXXXXX County, North Carolina. I want to thank NC Cooperative Extension, USDA Risk Management Agency and National Crop Insurance Service. I was unfamiliar with many aspects of my farm internally. Often, we as farmers stay so concentrated on the external operations of the farm (ex: trimming, irrigating, cropping, etc.) we lose complete focus on a very important aspect, the internal operation. Through the risk management workshops I was able to get a good understanding on how to operate my XXXXXX operation in a more efficient manner through careful planning, setting goals, and managing the best way to overcome internal obstacles. Although all of the training was very informative and helped me along the way, in my most personal opinion I found Assignment #5: Personal Plan, to be the most important section of the training. This section allowed me to see my real strengths and weaknesses and allowed me to carefully choose the best options to overcome these weaknesses. XXXXXXXX assisted us with all of the trainings on a constant basis and made this experience an easy but yet a very informative one. For that we are very grateful, thank you. XXXXXX XXXXX, XXXXXXXXXXX Farms, XXXXXXX County I strongly recommend that XXXXXXX is entitled XXXXXX promotion, for XXXX has assisted me and others that recommended me to XXXX. XXXXXXX works tirelessly providing information and resources that helps one to obtain their objectives. XXXX follows up inquiring how one is progressing. XXXX has been very professional about XXXX work and commitment. As I continue to work with XXXX, I m sure XXXX will continue to be ultimate professional that XXXXX is. Thank you. XXXXXXXX, XXXXXX Farm, XXXXXXX County II. Marketing of Cooperative Extension and University Engagement What have you done to favorably position the organization and the university in your county, region/district and state? I have always strived to maintain a high quality, useful, and responsive program that instills in clients a positive image of Cooperative Extension and highlights the Cooperative Extension Service s role in delivering research-based information to the citizens of XXXXXX, XXXXXX and XXXXXX Counties. I have a strong work ethic and go the extra mile to ensure that the farmers and other residents in XXXXXX, XXXXXX and XXXXXX Counties are involving Cooperative Extension programs by empowering and providing solutions. I send high quality newsletters and news articles on a regular basis to update XXXXXXX and advisory committee members about upcoming various events and programs. I have included program impacts in XXXXXX, XXXXXX and XXXXXX Counties Extension Quarterly Highlights that goes out to county commissioners, local government, collaborators, and the overall XXXXXXX and county advisory committees. Page 13 of 20

14 How was the public s image of Extension enhanced by your efforts? I try to be very organized and effective. I am known to do quality work. My programs are known to be informative, timely, and relevant. I strive to find research based knowledge in practical ways. Extension has been recognized through my work with the XXXXX XXXXX. The XXXXXX XXXX has grown every year, and we get more sponsors and volunteers. It is seen as a very important part of Extension. I have spoken at local church meetings concerning Extension and program areas. My teaching and marketing materials include the Extension logo. This includes all newsletters, letters, and flyers. I submit articles and upcoming events to the XXXXXX, XXXXXX and XXXXXX counties newspapers. How did you work with the agent/s in securing resources? I have secure funds for my small programs for educational meetings in XXXXXX, XXXXXX and XXXXXX counties. Since 20XX, I have secure approximately $XXXXXXX in grants and donations from sponsors and agriculture businesses such as XXXXXXXXXX, XXXXXX XXXXX, XXXXXXX County Farm Bureau, and the National Crop Insurance Services. What cross-disciplinary efforts and programs were you involved with? Although my degree is in XXXXX XXXXXX, and my extension program focuses on financial management and record keeping, I feel that my involvement with the entire staff of the XXXXXX, XXXXXX and XXXXXX counties and with agents in other Cooperative Extension centers in the XXXXXX District, works to meet the needs of our clientele. Our close relationship makes the environment very conducive to teamwork and cross-disciplinary efforts. Some of these efforts include: 20XX 20XX: Farm Management Agents from XXXXXXX and XXXXX counties have collaborated on conducting a XXXXXXXXXX XXXXXX Workshop. 20XX 20XX: Farm Management Agents, Horticulture Agents, Livestock Agents, and Agriculture Technicians have collaborated to hold an annual XXXXX XXXX tour for small, part-time and limited resource farmers in XXXXXXX, XXXXXXX, XXXXX, XXXXXXX and XXXXXXX counties. 20XX 20XX: Livestock Agents from XXXXXXX have collaborated in planning for XXXXX XXXXX producers. 20XX 20XX: Extension County Director, and Agriculture Agents, FCS Agents, 4-H agent and 4- H Program Assistant and Secretaries from XXXXXXX County have collaborated in planning for Community Ag. Day. Page 14 of 20

15 20XX 20XX: Extension County Director and Agriculture Agents from XXXXXXX County have collaborated in setting up display on the agriculture industries in XXXXXXX County at XXXXX XXXX community event. 20XX 20XX: Agriculture Agents, and Agriculture and Natural Resource Technicians from XXXXXXX, XXXXXXX, XXXXXXX, and XXXXXXX Counties have collaborated in recruiting producers to Risk Management Workshop. 20XX 20XX: Horticulture Agents in XXXXXXX County have collaborated in planning for XXXXXX XXXXXX XXXXXX Workshop. 20XX 20XX: Horticulture Agents in XXXXXXX County have collaborated in planning for XXXXXXX XXXXXXX Workshop. Provide documentation/evidence of marketing of your programs. Marketing of my programs is mainly through newsletters, letters, brochures, and postcards to clients on mailing lists. I send reminders to farmers who have . I submit articles and upcoming events to the local newspaper. In addition, I submit articles and upcoming events to XXXXXXX.ces.ncsu.edu. I put flyers and educational information on the shelves where clients can see them. I put flyers up at local Agribusinesses that cater to the clients that may be interested in a particular meeting. My teaching and marketing materials include the Extension logo. I also use word of mouth to market my programs. Other agencies will market meetings and programs as needed. III. Leadership Career and Professional Development What training and/or in-service education have you completed and how have these opportunities helped you? The following opportunities have enhanced my knowledge, providing better educational programs and trainings to meet the needs of my clientele. I use the information to enhance office morale and safety. I share the information I learned with clients in letters, newsletters, and during meetings. 20XX Attended XXXXXXX Conference, Greensboro, NC Attended XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Workshop, Kenansville, NC Attended 2014 Farm Bill Updates: Commodity Programs, Crop Insurance, and Risk Management Training State Extension Conference, Raleigh, NC Page 15 of 20

16 Attended Designing an Economics Extension Program for Farmers with XXXX XXXXX, State Extension Conference, Raleigh, NC Attended Developing Local Food Markets with Farm Profitability Management Tools, State Extension Conference, Raleigh, NC Attended High Tunnel Microclimate and Vegetable Crops, State Extension Conference, Raleigh, NC Attended Programming Efforts for XXXXX XXXXX Farmers, State Extension Conference, Raleigh, NC Attended Successfully Growing XXXXX for Local Markets, State Extension Conference, Raleigh, NC Attended Food Safety Modernization Act FSMA: Implementation of the Produce Safety & Preventive Controls Rules & A Plan to Meet the Training Requirements, State Extension Conference, Raleigh, NC Attended Tools and Tactics for Farmers Market Promotion and Assessment, State Extension Conference, Raleigh, NC Attended Agents Farm Profitability Training, Clinton, NC Attended USDA Farm Bill Web Tools Training for 1890 Universities & CBOs, Atlanta, GA Attended Extension Risk Management Education National Conference, Minneapolis, Minnesota Attended NCSU XXXXXXXX Forum, Clinton, NC Attended NCA&T XXXXXXX Week Curbside Information Session, Greensboro, NC Participated in Illuminate Session: How to Establish a Farmers Adopting Computer Technology for Farmers Attended Farm Tax Issues Workshop, Kinston, NC Attended NC AgrAbility Agent Training, NCA&T, Greensboro, NC 20XX Attended NCA&T Faculty Staff Institute, NCA&T, Greensboro, NC Attended Agroforestry Train the Trainer, Raleigh, NC Attended Agricultural Farm Tax Issues Workshop, Lumberton, NC Attended Developing Risk Management Plan Workshop, Clinton, NC 20XX Attended Farmers Adopted Computer Technology Training Agent s, Technicians and Farmers Retreat Session on Introduction to QuickBooks, Raleigh, NC Attended Growing Food & Community Through Garden Session, NCA&T, Greensboro, NC Attended National Extension Risk Management Education Conference, Denver, Colorado Attended Local Foods Agroforestry: Edible Riparian Buffer/ Forest Farming Session, NCA&T, Greensboro, NC Attended Local Foods: Season Extension/High tunnel Production of Local Produce Session, NCA&T, Greensboro, NC Attended Local Foods: XXXXX XXXXXXX XXXXX Field Day, NCA&T, Greensboro, NC Attended Advanced Risk Management Concepts Session, Raleigh, NC Attended Commodity Outlook and Basic Risk Management using Futures and Options Session, Raleigh, NC Page 16 of 20

17 Attended Food Safety for Value-Added Businesses Session, Raleigh, NC 20XX Attended XXXXXXX XXXXXXX Agent Training, Kenansville, NC Attended High Tunnel Production Field Day CEFS, Goldsboro, NC Attended Farm Tax Issues Workshop, Wilson, NC Attended NC A&T Field Day, Greensboro, NC How have you shared opportunities and information gained? I share new information I have learned with my producers in the county, other extension agents, and other agency personnel. This information is passed along through phone calls, farm visits, office visits, newsletters, letters and article What formal coursework have you completed, if any, and why? Agricultural and Extension Education (AEE) Ag Ed Agriculture Extension Program Planning and Evaluation I enrolled in an online, graduate course at XXXXXXXXXXXXX during the 20XX fall semester. This course helped me improve my job skills, and plan and evaluate programs. XXXX, I have enrolled in XX eight-hour tax classes in title of Intermediate Income Tax and Farm Tax Issues workshops. These classes help me learn about income tax laws and changes, and the importance of keeping records to prepare for taxes. It also helped me understand how to get and preserve the necessary financial records for tax preparation. These classes helped me answer questions that XXXXXXX may have regarding tax issues. Provide evidence of team efforts and value of teamwork? I value teamwork and work with several local agents to improve all our programs. I work with agents to hold regional meetings and field days. From 20XX to 20XX, I have worked with the XXXXXXX County Farm Management Agent in coordinating XXXXX XXXXXXX workshops. In 20XX, I worked with extension agents from, XXXXXXX, XXXXXXX, XXXXXXX, XXXXXXX and recruiting farmers to participate in a series of XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX workshops. In 20XX, I worked the XXXXXXX County Extension staff in planning for Community Ag Day. In 20XX, I assisted with intake for XXXXXXX XXXXX XXXXXX in the spring and fall. From 20XX to 20XX, I worked with the XXXXXXX County livestock agent on coordinating the XXXXXX XXXXXXSchool. I worked with the XXXXXXX County farm management agent and the XXXXXXX County agriculture/natural resource technician on a planning committee for XXXXl XXXXXX XXXX. From 20XX to 20XX, I worked with XXXXXXX County Extension staff in setting up displays and exhibits at the annual local county fair. From 20XX to 20XX, I work closely with other agriculture agencies, such as the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDACS), Farm Service Agency (FSA), Natural Resources Page 17 of 20

18 Conservation Service (NRCS), Risk Management Agency (RMA), NC Forest Service, NC Farm Bureau, and NC Farm Credit. List associations /affiliations that enhance your professional development. What roles did you play and/or positions did you hold? I am currently a member of the National, State and District Extension Associations of Agricultural Agents. In 20XX 20XX, I served on the XXXXXXX District Association of County Agricultural Agents (XXDACAA) Certified Crop Advisors (CCA), Training Facilities Set-up and Clean-Up Committee. In 20XX 20XX, I also served on the Sustainable Agriculture Committee. In 20XX, I was the North Carolina Association of County Agricultural Agents XXXXX XXXXX Award winner in Fayetteville, NC. In 20XX, I was the National Association of County Agricultural Agents XXXXXXX XXXXXXXXX Award winner in Pittsburgh, PA. What committees and/or opportunities outside the county have you been involved? I served on the XXXXX XXXXXXXXX Committee for Community Ag Day in 20XX. I served on the XXXXXXX XXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXXX Planning Committee. I served on the XXXXXXX XXXXX XXXXXX Program Committee for XXXXXXX, XXXXX and XXXXXXX County s in 20XX-20XX. What is your community leadership involvement? XXXXXXX XXXXX XXXXX, XXXXXXX, NC - 20XX to 20XX, I served on the Board of Trustees - I currently serve on the XXXXXXX Board. - I currently serve on the XXXXX Board. - Assist with XXXXX XXXXXX ministry. List honors, awards and recognition received and why? 20XX NC Association of Ag Agents XXXXXXXXXXX XXXXX winner 20XX National Association of Ag Agents XXXXX XXXXXXXX winner 20XX XXXXXXX County Board of Commissioner, Recognition for State & National XXXXXXXX winner List self-directed learning activities focused on career and professional development. I read magazines, articles and books to increase my job knowledge on new farm issues. I constantly strive to improve my computer skills, especially in the areas of recordkeeping financial management software. Many of my computer and farm management skills have come from practicing on my own after attending various workshops and attending Farm Profitability, and XXXXXXXX training. This training allows me to teach educational workshops and conduct one-on-one training to my audience on how to understand and implement farm business planning principles for successful risk management decision-making. Page 18 of 20

19 Support Letters Supporting letters have been provided by: Supporting Information USDA Outreach Farm Programs High-Tunnel Production Program GRAPHIC XXXXXXXX XXXXXXX Program GRAPHIC Page 19 of 20

20 Webpage Design and Internet Marketing GRAPHIC Risk Management and Record-Keeping Program GRAPHIC Page 20 of 20