Jones,* J.G.1; Chichester, L.M.2; Hammond, V.3; Lesoing, G.W.4; Sarno, E.A.5; Wilson, J.A.6

1 Extension Educator, University of Nebraska – Lincoln Extension, Johnson County, Tecumseh, NE, 68450; 2 Extension Educator, University of Nebraska – Lincoln Extension, Richardson County, Falls City, NE, 68355; 3 Extension Educator, University of Nebraska – Lincoln Extension, Kimmel Education and Research Center, Nebraska City, NE, 68410; 4 Extension Educator, University of Nebraska – Lincoln Extension, Nemaha County, Auburn, NE 68305; 5

Extension Educator, University of Nebraska – Lincoln Extension, Haskell Agricultural Laboratory, Concord, NE, 68728; 6 Extension Educator, University of Nebraska – Lincoln Extension, Burt County, Tekamah, NE, 68061

Abstract

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.

Mission & Goals

•  To heighten awareness of sustainable production practices and diversified enterprises among producers and consumers •  To provide an educational opportunity for farmers/ranchers to learn about innovative production and marketing techniques •  To improve the environmental and economic well-being of rural Nebraska and its residents

Results & Impacts

•  The conference has continued to grow since its inception in 2003, with 220 individuals attending in 2012

•  In a 2009 follow up evaluation with conference participants they indicated that attendance at the conference had assisted them in achieving the following changes:

•  Improved stewardship of natural resources •  Incorporation of holistic management of natural resources •  Improved production practices

•  In a 2011 post conference evaluation of attendees: •  53% indicated the conference had significantly improved their knowledge of alternative

agricultural production practices •  79% reported conference attendance would assist them in improving their production practices

•  In a 2011 follow up evaluation with conference participants 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

•  One participant said, “We have cut off farm inputs by 80% and this has saved us about $250,000 per year. We are much more sustainable and much more profitable.”

•  The state’s natural environment, rural communities, and farmer/ranchers have all benefited from the Rural Advantage conference. The conference’s efforts to promote sustainable practices and diversified operations has assisted in improving the environmental, economic, and social sustainability of the state.

Program Delivery

•  Annual two-day event organized by UNL Extension and the Nebraska Sustainable Agriculture Society

•  Conference allows for networking, learning, and sharing among those passionate about sustainable agriculture

•  Speakers and presenters from around the nation, including:

•  Researchers •  Extension personnel •  Farmers/ranchers •  Foodservice professionals •  Government officials •  Nonprofit groups

•  Featured speakers, breakout sessions, roundtables, and hands on youth workshops covering a variety of topics

•  Previous topics include: •  Agricultural issues & policy •  Beekeeping & pollination •  Beginning farmer programs •  Bird habitat •  Community supported agriculture (CSA) •  Cover crops •  Crop rotations •  Enterprise & whole farm budgets •  Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) •  Grazing strategies •  High tunnels & greenhouses •  Holistic Resource Management •  Integrated pest management •  Local food systems •  Marketing strategies •  Meat processing & cuts •  Organic certification & standards •  Pasture management •  Permaculture •  Public & nonprofit programs •  Renewable energy •  Small fruit production •  Transition & estate planning •  Weed control