Conferences
Challenges with Developing an Extension Program for Markets Evolving under an Uncertain Framework: Lessons from Program Development for Carbon and Hemp Markets
Aaron Smith, Paul Goeringer, Tyler Mark, and Charley Martinez
Summary
Extension programs are known as the link between producers, applied research, and policy. Additionally, Extension educators are often the initial point of contact for producers when new agricultural markets emerge. Emerging markets provide opportunities and challenges for all producers. However, developing an Extension program to assist producers can be difficult due to limited production information (or process clarity), a lack of infrastructure, uncertain marketing channels, and a lack of policy direction. During the emergence of markets, the development of Extension programming is necessary to aid producers and other agricultural stakeholders in clarifying the risks and rewards of entering or participating in a market. Further complicating Extension programming for emerging markets is a bimodal distribution of clientele (i.e. distribution ranging from established life-long producers to beginning farmers).
The development of carbon and hemp markets in the U.S. highlights the difficulties in providing producers with timely information when a highly uncertain policy and regulatory environment exists. This presentation discusses how to develop an Extension program to address producers' needs for emerging markets effectively. We utilize carbon and hemp markets as examples of recent challenges that Extension educators have faced in delivering program content to their constituents while maintaining an unbiased research-based approach. Specifically, we highlight the benefits of collaboration, obtaining grant funding, program development, and identifying research topics. Additionally, the presentation will discuss the importance of maintaining impartiality, using a research-based approach, and mistakes made along the way. Finally, the program development discussed can be utilized by Extension educators when developing programming for future emerging markets.
Details
| Conference | 2022 Extension Risk Management Education National Conference |
| Presentation Type | 30 Minute Concurrent |