View Poster Application

THE RURAL ADVANTAGE: EDUCATING ABOUT PROFITABLE AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL OPPORTUNITIES IN NEBRASKA

Extension Education

Jessica Jones
EXTENSION EDUCATOR
UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA - LINCOLN
TECUMSEH

Abstract

\r\n    Sustainability has become a topic of much discussion, especially in agriculture.  UNL Extension has recognized this and since 2003, they have partnered with the Nebraska Sustainable Agriculture Society to present the Rural Advantage Conference.  The goal of the conference is to educate people about profitable and sustainable agricultural opportunities in Nebraska.  The two-day conference allows producers, consumers, and educators the opportunity to increase their knowledge and understanding of sustainable agricultural production practices and marketing techniques, with presentations by producers and Extension professionals. Topics covered have included: high tunnels, Community Supported Agriculture (CSAs), pollinators, grass-fed beef, grazing systems, holistic management, organic crop production, cover crops, weed control, farm policy, transitioning the farm, and more. Over the past ten years this event has grown and in 2012, 220 individuals participated in the Rural Advantage Conference.  In 2011, 53% of participants indicated as a result of attending they had significantly improved their knowledge of alternative agricultural production practices and 79% reported that attending the conference would assist them in improving their production practices. Follow up surveys of previous conferences indicate 42% of those who had attended and incorporated new ideas, and/or adopted or changed production practices had seen an economic gain of $2,000 or more in their operation.  As a result of extension’s efforts the sustainable agriculture community within the state has grown and strengthened both economically and socially.  Additionally, the state’s natural environment has benefited through the increased adoption of sustainable agricultural practices.

\r\n

Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC

This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.

Click to view Poster

Authors: J.G. Jones, G.W. Lesoing, V. Hammond, E.A. Sarno, J.A. Wilson, L.M. Chichester
  1. Jones, J. Extension Educator, University of Nebraska - Lincoln Extension, Nebraska, 68450
  2. Lesoing, G. Extension Educator, University of Nebraska - Lincoln Extension, Nebraska, 68305
  3. Hammond, V. Extension Educator, University of Nebraska - Lincoln Extension, Nebraska, 68410
  4. Sarno, E. Extension Educator, University of Nebraska - Lincoln Extension, Nebraska, 68728
  5. Wilson, J. Extension Educator, University of Nebraska - Lincoln Extension, Nebraska, 68061
  6. Chichester, L. Extension Educator, University of Nebraska - Lincoln Extension, Nebraska, 68355