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Takeaways from the NUEL Regional Conference Lessons from the 2025 National Urban Extension Leaders Conference

At the beginning of May, I attended the 2025 National Urban Extension Leaders Regional Conference in Durham, North Carolina. Collaboration lies at the heart of all extension work – urban and rural. At NUEL, I heard repeatedly about the impact of mutually beneficial partnerships, fostering connections, and relationship building. Here are takeaways from the NUEL Conference, specifically for folks like me (aka Extension-based Technical Assistance Providers). 

Agritourism Trends to Pay Attention To in 2025 Lessons from the International Agritourism Conference

Last month, I attended the NAFDMA conference, which is the international agritourism association. I took note throughout the conference on themes that emerged over and over to try to get a better understanding of what the major trends in agritourism are today. Here's a list of 5 things that I learned, in no order of importance.

Plant with a Plan! What to Think About Before You Plant

Have you ever thought, “I should really take into consideration some important factors before I start planting.” If not, do we have the resources for you!   The CCD has all sorts of recording trainings, webinars, and publications. Among those are our general webinars where we have those dedicated to What to Think About Before You Plant. We have information dedicated to the market you are considering being involved in. Direct markets or large and commercial, we’ve got those things that you need to think about! 

Using the KDA's 2024-2025 Kentucky Farmers’ Market Manual & Resource Guide

High Tunnel Planting Calendar

Some Ways to Use This Calendar - 1. To understand minimum and optimal temperatures for high tunnel crops. - 2. Learn ideal planting and harvest times for high tunnel crops. - 3. Pick crops based on harvest window and how that supports your ideal market.

Effective Budgeting Can Unlock Growth in Specialty Crop Markets

The specialty crop market is experiencing a surge in popularity as consumer demand for locally grown, organic, and unique produce continues to rise. Farmers and producers are capitalizing on this opportunity, but one factor separates the success stories from the rest: strategic budget planning.