Features

The average age of farm operators in Kentucky is increasing, and over the next several years, many farm families will consider transitioning their farm to the next generation. The decision of when and how to begin the farm transition process can be difficult; often, farm families avoid the issue because it can be a difficult topic to discuss.

A mild winter can have its downsides. One is that more ticks probably survived than normal. The result is more hungry ticks out earlier than usual, according to Lee Townsend, extension entomologist in the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment.

Typically, warm weather brings ticks out of hiding to find the blood meal they need to continue their life cycle. In the past two weeks, Townsend has received calls about ticks on both people and pets.

Unusually warm temperatures have both backyard gardeners and farmers looking at crops early this year.

I was catching up on some magazine reading the other day and on two occasions I read the phrase “choose thin spears” and I got so frustrated.  These spring articles were about asparagus, and I would like to go on the record that when it comes to homegrown asparagus (and even the wild growing in the fence rows), fat is good.  The fat spears have always been tender from the garden, so don’t let anyone fool you on the fresh from the garden variety. They are particularly well-suited for the charcoal grill.

A festive get-together for Easter

Have you invited family or friends for brunch or dinner over the Easter weekend? This is the perfect opportunity to concoct some wonderful dishes, enjoy yourself and impress your guests. You can make sure the event is a roaring success by following these three suggestions.

Invite spring into your home

Colton Todd, Ethan Thompson, Luke Jeffiers, Emily Truax, Valerie Pucko, and Lily Cook all participated in the 4-H Teen Summit at the Kentucky Leadership Center March 16th -18th.  

They all took full advantage of the leadership classes that were offered. Liz Walker is on State Teen Council, was a group leader, and directed leadership classes.

The 4-H Teen Summit provides young people with essential leadership skills that can help them mature into successful, community minded adults.