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A Virtual Response from the Alabama Farm and Agribusiness Team to a Very Offline Pandemic

Search for Excellence in Farm and Ranch Business Management

Ken Kelley
Regional Extension Agent
ALABAMA COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SYSTEM
BREWTON

Team Members: Kelley, K*1, Runge, M*2, Kelton, J*3, Rabinowitz, A*4, Sawadgo, W*5, Boswell, J*6, Brothers, D*7
  1. Regional Extension Agent, ALABAMA COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SYSTEM, Brewton, Alabama, 36426
  2. Extension Professor, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, 36849
  3. Regional Extension Agent, Auburn University, Headland, Alabama, 36345
  4. Extension Professor, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, 36849
  5. Extension Professor, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, 36849
  6. Regional Extension Agent, Auburn University, Talladega, Alabama, 35160
  7. Extension Professor, Auburn University, Oneonta, Alabama, 35121

Abstract

The significance of the first worldwide pandemic in over 100 years cannot and should not be understated. COVID-19 affected virtually every facet of life for people worldwide, including the agricultural sector of the United States. The Alabama Cooperative Extension Farm and Agribusiness Management Team designed and implemented a virtual programming response to meet the needs of constituents in a timely and virtually accessible format. The learning objectives for this year of programmatic emphasis included (1) updating and empowering Alabama and Southern Region agricultural producers for success amid multiple industry shocks, (2) outreach to citizens to educate on and encourage appreciation of agricultural producers and production, and (3) build robust virtual relationships that will allow increased impact and continuity when traditional programming is considered safe and a acceptable from a public health standpoint. The impact The Alabama Farm and Agribusiness Management Team had using virtual programming during the pandemic was significant. That significance is manifested in both current impact (i.e. increased agricultural appreciation, agricultural knowledge, and risk management for producers), as well as programmatic impact for future years post-pandemic as educators gained vast insight into using virtual to supplement in-person programming.

Years of CES Service: 0

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