As agriculture evolves, so does the way producers prefer to receive information. Agriculture is fundamentally dynamic; however, many of the communication channels used to reach producers have not changed over the years. Based on a study I conducted with several amazing colleagues we seek to illuminate more contemporary communication preferences, offering insights to shape and target more effective communication strategies. Knowing how producers want to receive information isn't just about convenience; it's a strategic move toward fostering an informed, connected, and resilient agricultural community. Communication Channel Preferences: Producers are increasingly favoring digital platforms such as websites and blogs over traditional newsletters. The significance of interpersonal communication, be it through formal meetings or casual conversations, remains strong among producers. The study highlights the dynamic shifts in producers' information consumption habits, emphasizing the need for adaptive communication strategies. Opinion Leadership as a Predictor: Opinion leaders in the agricultural community exhibit a more versatile approach to receiving information. A positive correlation exists between the level of perceived opinion leadership and openness to diverse communication channels. Recognizing and leveraging these distinctions can enhance the effectiveness of tailored communication strategies. Practical Implications: Strategic emphasis on online platforms, particularly websites and blogs, alongside fostering diverse meeting environments, proves essential for reaching producers effectively. Striking a balance between innovative communication methods and traditional approaches is pivotal for fostering effective communication within the agricultural community. This study contributes insights into the evolving landscape of agricultural communication preferences, bridging the gap between opinion leadership and effective communication strategies. Understanding and adapting to producers' evolving preferences is critical in advancing communication practices in the agricultural domain. Please be sure to share your feedback using the comments below. Lamm, K. W., Rumble, J. N., Carter, H. S., & Lamm, A. J. (2016). Agricultural opinion leader communication channel preferences: an empirical analysis of participants in agricultural and natural resource leadership development programs. Journal of Agricultural Education, 57(1), 91-105. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2016.01091

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, plants play a fundamental role in human well-being, contributing to physical, mental, and environmental health. As we delve into the critical issues facing the horticulture industry, we must recognize plants' profound impact on our lives. In a research study I conducted with several colleagues, we identified the critical issues facing the horticultural industry and opportunities, providing a roadmap for the future. Key Findings: Disease and Pest Management Challenges: Emerging pests and pathogens pose significant threats. Resistance to existing pest management practices requires attention. Production Challenges and Innovations: Reform in horticultural production practices is imperative. Sustainability, automation, and precision agriculture need emphasis. Unreliable supply chains, evolving consumer preferences, and profitability demand consideration. Education, Research, and Recruitment Needs: Enhancement of formal horticultural education programs is critical. Distance education programs and robust recruitment efforts are essential. Labor Challenges and Considerations: Shortage of skilled, manual, and migrant workers is a severe threat. Recruitment incentives and educational training can address labor challenges. Environmental Conditions and Natural Resource Availability: Changing environmental conditions impact production and resource availability. COVID-19 Impacts: The study was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic and outlines 14 issues linked to the pandemic, emphasizing disruptions in supply chains, increased interest in home gardening, continuity of research functions, and the shortage of skilled labor. Next Steps... This study provides insights into the horticulture industry, updating our understanding of contemporary challenges and opportunities. Identifying 34 unique issues through a Delphi process serves as a guide for research, education, and resource allocation. From sustainable pest management to labor recruitment and educational reforms, the study offers actionable pathways for industry resilience. Please be sure to share your thoughts and comments below. Lamm, K. W., Powell, A., & Lombardini, L. (2021). Identifying critical issues in the horticulture industry: A delphi analysis during the covid-19 pandemic. Horticulturae, 7(11), 1-12. https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae7110416

In the ever-changing landscape of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), we've witnessed a revolution in how we communicate. From microelectronics to the fusion of computing and telecommunications, ICTs are the backbone of modern communication. This transformation is not just about technology; it's about connecting agricultural research with rural communities through Rural Advisory Services (RAS). As we navigate this digital era, the critical question arises: How can RAS evolve alongside ICTs to effectively share timely and accessible information with farmers worldwide? Understanding ICT Potential in RAS Networks: A Social Capital Approach This study dives into the world of ICT capacities within RAS networks, using a social capital theoretical foundation. Experts from RAS globally came together in a Delphi process to pinpoint capacities linked with effective ICT use. The results echo what we already know – various ICT platforms are a lifeline for communication in rural areas, making sure essential agricultural information reaches where it's needed. What We Found and What We Suggest: Essentials for Effective ICT Use: The experts unanimously agreed on three must-haves for effective ICT use in RAS networks: Tools that are easy for everyone to use. Leveraging ICT tools to spread information. Making sure the network connects nationally. Tailoring ICT Support for RAS Providers: RAS networks have unique needs. To address them, experts suggest creating ICT systems that fit the mission of RAS providers. One size doesn't fit all here! Striving for Consistency and Teamwork: Tips for RAS Networks: Use the identified capacities as a starting point to measure how ready you are for ICT. Take assessment results to plan specific actions and activities. Advice for Networks Everywhere: Push for a shared language on ICT use globally. Share assessment results openly to learn from each other and get better together. What's Next: The study points us toward creating a tool to measure ICT use consistently across different RAS networks. If we all speak the same language and share our insights openly, we can make RAS networks not just effective locally, but globally. I've included the journal manuscript below for more information regarding the study. Please be sure to share your feedback in the comments below. Lamm, K. W., Lamm, A. J., Davis, K., Swaroop, B. J.+, & Edgar, L. D. (2019). Identifying information and communication technology use capacity needs of extension networks. Journal of International Agricultural and Extension Education, 26(3), 58-71

The holiday season, though often associated with joy and celebration, can also bring forth stress, especially in rural communities where unique challenges may amplify individuals' concerns. As we approach Thanksgiving, a time of reflection and gratitude, it's essential to recognize the potential stressors that might affect those in rural settings. In this blog post, I share findings from a study I conducted with several colleagues into the dynamics of rural stress, shedding light on significant findings that need attention and consideration, particularly during this time of the year. Key Findings: Validation of a rural stress instrument, affirming its effectiveness in capturing prevalent stressors in rural settings. Identification of distinct stress patterns across diverse rural demographics, shedding light on the nuanced nature of stress within these communities. Significant Observations: Elevated stress levels were observed in larger rural regions near urban centers, contrasting with unexpectedly lower stress levels in completely rural areas. This highlights the potential impact of significant changes, such as industrial shifts, on stress dynamics. Implications for Consideration: Residents in rural communities, especially those undergoing industrial transitions, need heightened awareness of stressors. Educators and support personnel in these locales can play a crucial role in identifying and assisting individuals grappling with heightened stress levels. Methodological Approach: Utilizing the empirical rural stress instrument can help provide a measure of perceived stressors in communities - particularly those in rural environments. Future Prospects: Subsequent research should examine individual stress dynamics for a more comprehensive understanding. Initiating broader conversations about stress within rural contexts can foster effective strategies to alleviate its impact. As the holiday season unfolds, particularly within rural communities, these results serve as a call to acknowledge and provide a tool to help address the multifaceted challenges posed by rural stress. Beyond mere comprehension, the emphasis lies in transformative action, fostering an environment where holidays encapsulate joy rather than stress. I've included the full manuscript below if you are interested in learning more. Please be sure to share your thoughts and feedback in the comments section. Lamm, K. W., Powell, A., Holt, J., Borron, A., & Atkins, K. (2020). Development and validation of a rural stress instrument. Journal of Agricultural Education, 61(1), 32-43. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2020.01032

In the dynamic realm of organizations in general, and higher education administration in particular, where change is a constant, understanding the nuances of leadership styles becomes paramount. In this post, I am excited to share research findings from a study into the dynamics of transformational and transactional leadership that unveils compelling insights, particularly within the context of large-scale organizational change initiatives. The study, centered around the PULSE Fellows group (a National Science Foundation, NSF, funded group), illuminates unexpected trends in leadership approaches. The results provide empirical insights regarding leadership and engagement in transformative activities. Leadership Styles in the Spotlight: The findings spotlight a prevalent shift toward transformational leadership among PULSE Fellows, surpassing the traditional transactional approaches. This shift holds implications for not just theoretical discussions but also tangible outcomes in the realm of change initiatives. Practical Implications Unveiled: Beyond the theoretical discourse, the research suggests a pragmatic approach. Teams intentionally selected for their transformational leadership tendencies exhibit higher success rates in navigating change initiatives compared to those chosen solely for their subject matter expertise. Behavioral Nuances: Notably, the study reveals an unexpected yet crucial link between a leader's level of transformational leadership and increased engagement in change outcomes. This emphasizes the significance of focusing on behavioral aspects in leadership education, a critical consideration for those shaping future leaders. Transactional Leadership Challenges: A surprising discovery surfaces in the form of a negative relationship between transactional leadership and engagement. This signals potential hurdles associated with this leadership style in the context of change initiatives, prompting a reevaluation of its efficacy in such environments. Practical Applications and Future Horizons: These insights not only contribute to refining leadership education curricula but also advocate for a reassessment of leadership selection processes, particularly in change-oriented environments. While acknowledging the study's limitations, including a relatively small sample size, it underscores the necessity for further research to validate and broaden these findings. As we navigate the multifaceted landscape of leadership dynamics, these revelations serve as a valuable compass, providing a path toward more effective leadership strategies in the ever-evolving terrain of higher education. Lamm, A. J., Lamm, K. W., Rodriguez, M. T. & Owens, C. T. (2016). Examining leadership style influence on engagement in a national change process: implications for higher education. Journal of Leadership Education, 15(4), 1-14. https://doi.org/10.12806/v15/i4/r1

In 2011, the Uganda Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services (UFAAS) embarked on a mission to transform the agricultural landscape of Uganda. With a focus on key themes such as policy, climate-smart agriculture, youth engagement, food security, and income generation, UFAAS aimed to usher in an era of innovation and efficiency in agricultural advisory services. UFAAS: The Catalyst for Change Uganda, like many African nations, underwent a significant transformation in its agricultural extension system. The introduction of the National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS) Act led to the replacement of the public extension system with a more privatized approach. This shift aimed to address the pressing issue of one extension professional serving approximately 2000 farmers, creating a need for supplementary support. Advocating Professionalism and Ethical Standards UFAAS, recognizing the importance of setting professional and ethical standards in agricultural advisory services, took proactive steps. Their objective was clear: to promote professionalism and ethics within the agricultural extension and advisory services (AEAS) system in Uganda. Notably, their efforts bore fruit in 2017 when they were invited to support the development of essential documents, including Extension Guidelines, Ethical Code of Conduct, and Proceedings for Registration and Accreditation of AEAS providers. These documents were subsequently approved by the top management team of the Ministry for Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), marking a significant milestone. Supporting Youth in Agriculture One of UFAAS's critical areas of focus is youth engagement in agriculture. With Uganda grappling with high youth unemployment rates and food security challenges, UFAAS recognized the need to bridge the gap between unemployed youth and a career in agriculture. However, this endeavor presented several challenges: Changing Perceptions: Agriculture was often perceived as "dirty" work, discouraging many young individuals from pursuing it as a viable career option. Resource Constraints: For those interested in agriculture, acquiring land, resources, and capital proved to be a formidable barrier. Lack of Exposure: Many youths lacked exposure to agriculture and had limited knowledge about the industry, making informed decisions difficult. The NOFAIP-UFAAS Partnership The case of the Nokia Farming Agricultural Innovation Platform (NOFAIP) exemplifies the impact of UFAAS's efforts. Established in 2010 with fewer than twenty members, NOFAIP saw tremendous growth, boasting over 300 members by 2017. The turning point was NOFAIP's decision to join UFAAS as dues-paying members. This strategic partnership unlocked a trove of knowledge and resources that played a pivotal role in their journey. UFAAS's Approach: Training and Support UFAAS's collaboration with NOFAIP followed a well-structured approach: Understanding Needs: They engaged with NOFAIP to gain a comprehensive understanding of their requirements. Assessing Capabilities: An assessment of existing capabilities and desired ones was carried out. Identifying Resources: UFAAS identified training materials and resources, ensuring that NOFAIP members had access to essential knowledge. Coordinating Training: UFAAS organized training opportunities for NOFAIP members, empowering them with the latest skills and practices. Ongoing Support: UFAAS maintained a consistent support system, adapting to the evolving needs of NOFAIP members. Knowledge Exchange: Collaborations with NOFAIP leadership facilitated the collection of best practices and information to enhance future training. Impact on NOFAIP and Ugandan Youth The results speak for themselves. NOFAIP has flourished, with over 300 registered members, 84 actively engaged in agricultural operations. They offer a wide range of services, from crop spraying to agronomic feedback, plowing, planting, weeding, irrigation, fertilizing, threshing, and market support. This success story demonstrates the tangible benefits of UFAAS's support. The youth in NOFAIP have become a driving force in the field. They've acquired valuable skills, revolutionized agricultural practices, and helped farmers achieve higher yields. For instance, their ability to identify and address challenges such as citrus canker swiftly has saved entire crops from devastation. The Bigger Picture In conclusion, UFAAS's role in nurturing the potential of Uganda's youth and driving agricultural development is commendable. Their support to NOFAIP underscores the importance of training, empowerment, and knowledge exchange in the agricultural sector. It's a promising step towards ensuring the sustainability of Uganda's agriculture and inspiring similar initiatives across the nation and the African continent. I've included a copy of the research below if you are interested in learning more. Please be sure to include your thoughts and input in the comments below. Lamm, K. W., Lamm, A. J., Mulvaney, C., Davis, K., Masambuka, F., & Nahdy, S. (2021). Model of success: Extension services helping Ugandan youth find a career in agriculture. Journal of International Agricultural and Extension Education, 28(3), 7-13.

Food safety is a global concern. However, navigating the complex landscape of the food system is daunting. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that in the United States alone, 48 million people fall ill, 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die from foodborne diseases annually. These staggering statistics emphasize the global significance of food safety research, highlighting its relevance to public health, the economy, and politics. Research in this field encompasses various aspects, such as microbial and chemical contamination, food adulteration, misuse of food additives, mislabeling, genetic modifications, and issues related to dated food. In this blog I'm excited to share research findings from work conducted in collaboration with the University of Georgia Center for Food Safety (CFS). Specifically, we developed a framework to conceptualize food safety issues to focus efforts and improve food safety across the food industry. These efforts were in conjunction with a strategy project helping the UGA CFS define their purpose as an organization (see similar efforts with University of Georgia Extension) As international food supply chains cross multiple borders, the risks associated with food consumption have evolved into a multidimensional concern. These risks now encompass human health, the environment, the economy, animal health, and future generations. As the food industry expands its offerings, including novel foods and advanced processing technologies, the complexity and diversity of food safety challenges continue to grow. The Role of Consumer Trust and Knowledge Consumer perceptions of food safety play a vital role in shaping purchase decisions and how they perceive the health benefits of various food items. Notably, these perceptions also impact food handlers and production workers. Thus, it falls upon policymakers, food safety leaders, and industry influencers to ensure the provision of safe food products. The study underlines the importance of exploring food safety issues from the perspective of industry leaders, whose insights offer a unique vantage point applicable across various contexts. While significant research has focused on consumer perspectives, the study examines food safety through a macro-level, industry-wide lens, bridging the gap between research and application. Key Insights and Recommendations The study identified seven key thematic categories related to food safety: Contamination: General Contamination: Detection Contamination: Outbreaks Contamination: Prevention Governmental Oversight Consumer/Employee Education & Communication Globalization These categories encapsulate a range of critical food safety issues, underlining the interrelated nature of these challenges. The significant overlap among these issues suggests a strong focus on contamination-related concerns, particularly in prevention, detection, and outbreak management. The study highlights the pivotal role of governmental oversight in addressing these challenges. Collaboration and Holistic Oversight To navigate these complex food safety challenges, collaborative efforts that leverage the resources and cooperation of academic, governmental, and industry experts are necessary. A holistic approach to oversight procedures, especially in areas of detection, response, and prevention, can help address these issues effectively. Moreover, addressing global themes like technology, DNA sequencing, and emerging food safety trends is essential. Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities While the study provides valuable insights, food safety remains a multifaceted global concern. Bridging the gap between consumers and industry experts, building trust with regulatory agencies, and addressing evolving challenges through collaboration are the keys to a safer and healthier food future. The source manuscript has been posted if you are interested in learning more. Please be sure to share your thoughts and feedback in the comments section. Lamm, K. W., Randall, N. L., & Diez-Gonzalez, F. (2021). Critical food safety issues facing the food industry: A delphi analysis. Journal of Food Protection, 84(4), 680-687. https://doi.org/10.4315/JFP-20-372

Effective Extension services in the agricultural sector require a profound understanding of their capacity. Assessing Extension capacity comprehensively is the first step in ensuring they meet the diverse needs of farmers and producers. This blog post delves into the power of inclusive extension capacity assessments, emphasizing the importance of considering a wide array of perspectives. These insights and recommendations are based on research I conducted with colleagues recently. Framing the Capacity Assessment Setting the Stage: Extension services play a vital role in educating and assisting farmers in their agricultural endeavors. To ensure their effectiveness, conducting comprehensive assessments of their capacity is imperative. Perspective Matters: The meta-synthesis of existing literature highlights the significance of considering diverse perspectives in extension assessments. Different voices contribute to a richer understanding of extension capacity. Who to Include The Key Players: In capacity assessments, it's essential to involve key respondent groups, including Clientele and Beneficiaries, who directly benefit from services, and Formal Power Roles, such as organizational agents and personnel. Outside Influence: While involving those in Informal Power Roles and Outside Influences is important in some assessments, their role differs from the direct beneficiaries and service providers. Recognizing this distinction is crucial. Purpose-Driven Selection: Tailoring assessments to their intended purpose is essential. Depending on the assessment's goals, specific respondent groups, such as Clientele and Beneficiaries or Informal Power Roles, may be more relevant. Study Results Unveiling Insights: The primary study reveals a range of agreements among experts on which respondent groups should be included in extension capacity assessments. Notably, the clientele's level of inclusion raises surprising observations, emphasizing the need to recognize the importance of local voices. High-Level vs. Local Engagement: Experts prioritize the inclusion of respondent groups operating at the regional or country level, indicating that local representation is often more crucial than higher-level perspectives. Recommendations for the Future Broadening the Scope: In the interest of more inclusive assessments, it's recommended to engage representatives from diverse respondent groups. This shift towards more participatory assessments allows for a deeper understanding of how decisions within one group may affect others. Using the Study’s Insights: To improve future capacity assessments, practitioners should use the results of this study to inform their practices. While the consensus results serve as a guideline, it's essential to adapt the recommendations to different contexts and prioritize higher-consensus groups. Next Steps for Inclusive Extension Capacity Assessments In an ever-evolving agricultural landscape, Extension services must adapt and expand their capacities to meet the diverse and changing needs of producers. Inclusive capacity assessments provide a way to achieve this by involving a broad spectrum of voices. By embracing diverse perspectives and prioritizing local voices, the agricultural sector can enhance the impact and relevance of provided services. The study has been included below for your reference. Please be sure to share your thoughts and insights in the comments below. Lamm, K. W., Powell, A., Lamm, A. J., & Davis, K. (2021). Extension capacity assessment respondents: A meta-synthesis of the literature and a primary study. Journal of International Agricultural and Extension Education, 28(5), 65-95. https://doi.org/10.4148/2831-5960.1031

In today's increasingly diverse undergraduate classrooms, traditional one-size-fits-all teaching approaches often fall short of engaging every student. The evolving landscape of education recognizes the need for a more personalized approach tailored to individual needs and learning styles. One significant avenue for achieving this is understanding how students' unique personalities influence their goal orientations. This understanding can lead to the implementation of more effective teaching strategies that truly empower students in their learning journey. I'm excited to share the findings from a research study I conducted with colleagues looking at the relationship between personality and goal orientation among undergraduate leadership students. Key Takeaways: Diverse Goal Orientations: Students exhibit different goal orientation styles, such as mastery-oriented learning and performance-oriented learning, which are often influenced by their personality traits. Mastery-Oriented Learning: Fostering a mastery-oriented learning environment, where students are encouraged to focus on learning and improvement rather than simply outperforming their peers, is crucial for promoting higher academic performance. Unlocking Adaptive Motivation: By recognizing the connection between teaching methods and students' personalities, educators can unlock adaptive motivation. This paves the way for higher levels of student performance across various learning environments. Enhanced Student Engagement: Engaging in discussions around personality and goal orientation in the classroom can lead to increased student engagement and better educational outcomes. The Power of Personalized Learning: Personalized learning is not just an alternative teaching method; it's a powerful tool for empowering students by recognizing their unique traits and learning styles. It fosters a stronger connection between educators and students, ultimately leading to improved academic performance. In summary, personalized learning is a transformative approach that acknowledges the diversity of students in today's undergraduate classrooms. By understanding the relationship between personality, goal orientation, and academic achievement, educators can provide personalized learning experiences that empower students, enhancing their engagement and success in education. I've included the full manuscript below if you are interested in learning more. Lamm, K. W., Sheikh, E., Carter, H. S., & Lamm, A. J. (2017). Predicting undergraduate leadership student goal orientation using personality traits. Journal of Leadership Education, 16(1), 18-33. https://doi.org/10.12806/v16/i1/r2 Please share your thoughts and feedback using the comments below!

Water is a fundamental resource, not just for agriculture but for all life on Earth. Its careful management is essential for ensuring food security, preserving the environment, and sustaining communities. Agricultural water use, in particular, plays a pivotal role in this intricate balance. As we grapple with the challenges of climate variability and a growing global population, the responsible use of water resources has never been more critical. Public awareness and attitudes regarding agricultural water use can significantly influence our ability to implement sustainable practices. For this blog post I'm very happy to share some research from an amazing team I worked with previously. The study delves into the general public's perceptions and attitudes toward agricultural water use, shedding light on their perspectives, and providing insights that can guide efforts towards responsible and efficient water resource management in agriculture. Positive Perceptions: The general public holds a positive attitude towards agricultural water use, supporting conservation efforts even if they lead to increased food prices. Environmental Impact: Respondents believe agriculture has a positive relationship with the natural environment, open spaces, and wildlife, but are uncertain about post-agricultural runoff effects. Source Credibility: Message source matters. Farmers as sources are seen as credible for some aspects, while organizations like the Nature Conservancy may be more trusted for others. Media Messaging: Agricultural organizations should utilize media channels to educate the public on water stewardship efforts, taking advantage of generally favorable perceptions. Coordinated Messaging: Coordinate messages with entities that share similar goals and expertise, ensuring alignment in perceived trustworthiness and credibility. Audience Influence: Future research should explore how individuals' experiences with agriculture and political ideologies impact their perceptions of message sources. Next steps... These findings indicate that the public's positive views on agricultural water use can be leveraged for effective communication and conservation efforts. Science communication efforts are critical to ensure water resources are used, and understood, in a sustainable manner. I've included a link to the research study below for your reference. Please be sure to share your thoughts and comments below! Lamm, A. J., Taylor, M. R., & Lamm, K. W.; (2016). Using perceived differences in views of agricultural water use to inform practice. Journal of Agricultural Education, 57(3), 180-191. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2016.03180

The UGA Extension Strategic Statement of Purpose: Why Organizational Purpose Matters (part 2) In a continuation of the UGA Extension Strategic Statement of Purpose post last week I'm excited to share some of the research based results we used to develop the statement of purpose. I was very fortunate to work with some amazing collaborators and the UGA Extension Leadership Team to complete this research. In a comprehensive statewide study, we identified the University of Georgia Extension's critical organizational strengths. These strengths are pivotal in driving the organization's success and impact. Core Categories of Strength Based on a Delphi process we identified a diversity of strengths which were analyzed and grouped, with strengths naturally falling into six core categories, : Infrastructure: The 4-H delivery model and a unique top-down and bottom-up approach set the organization apart. Personnel: A dedicated, well-educated, and trained workforce. Needs-Based Focus: A commitment to addressing community needs with precision. Institutional Resources: Leveraging university resources and Extension faculty expertise. Collaborations: Forming impactful partnerships, both local and statewide. Longevity: A century-long legacy of adaptability and community service. Implications for Extension This study's findings offer valuable insights not only for University of Georgia Extension but for Extension organizations nationwide. The core categories provide a framework for celebrating strengths, recognizing opportunities, and fostering innovation at both macro and micro levels. Leveraging Strengths for Effective Communication Effective communication is key, both internally and externally. By articulating these strengths, Extension employees can convey the organization's essence to new members, community stakeholders, and policymakers. It boosts morale, motivation, and engagement, helping employees understand their unique contributions to the organization's success. In essence, understanding and leveraging organizational strengths are pivotal steps towards a more effective and impactful Extension organization. Join Us in Celebrating Extension's Strengths! Discover how these strengths shape the UGA Extension organization and its commitment to serving families, farmers, and communities. To learn more about the research I've included the article below. Please be sure to share your thoughts and comments! Lamm, K. W., Randall, N. L., Lamm, A. J., & Sapp, L. R. (2021). Extension organizational strengths: A delphi analysis. Journal of Agricultural Education, 62(2), 53-65. http://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2021.0253

Kenya's agricultural extension landscape has undergone significant transformation, moving from government control to privatization and a demand-driven approach. This shift has brought new challenges, most notably the absence of a central coordination mechanism. In this blog post I'm excited to share findings from a study I conducted with a number of colleagues, specifically, the pivotal role played by the Kenyan Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services (KeFAAS) in addressing these challenges and bolstering coordination for the benefit of farmers and the agricultural sector. Challenges Faced: Despite the promising changes in Kenyan extension, several hurdles emerged: Coordination Gap: The lack of a central coordinating body made it difficult to connect with farmers and service providers, leading to low productivity and restricted market access. Technology Diffusion: Spreading agricultural innovations, particularly in remote areas, became problematic, leaving small-scale farmers with limited access to crucial resources. Private Prioritization: Private extension services tended to favor more productive regions, neglecting resource-poor farmers and exacerbating disparities. KeFAAS's Initiatives: KeFAAS proactively tackled these issues through strategic measures: Effective Communication: They developed informative materials, clarifying KeFAAS's mission and value, aiding potential members' understanding. Active Engagement: KeFAAS actively participated in national agricultural fairs, fostering direct connections with stakeholders. Capacity Building: They invested in member capacity by providing training on extension-focused curriculum, enhancing industry knowledge. Positive Impacts: KeFAAS's actions yielded positive results: Stronger Connections: Participation in agricultural fairs and clear communication strengthened ties with like-minded organizations, such as the Smallholder Seed Producers Network (SSN). Mutually Beneficial Projects: Collaborations, like the one with SSN, led to successful projects and secured funding, benefiting both parties and expanding their reach. Improved Coordination: KeFAAS's emphasis on shared knowledge and goals enhanced extension coordination, benefiting farmers and the sector. So What?: KeFAAS's achievements highlight the power of shared knowledge, goals, and mutual respect in enhancing coordination. To build on this success, we recommend: Establishing advisory councils with diverse representatives. Prioritizing knowledge sharing and awareness building among members and affiliated organizations. Creating dedicated platforms for information dissemination. By adopting these strategies, agricultural extension services can be more efficient and effective in addressing the diverse needs of farmers in Kenya and beyond. For additional information I've included the source research for reference: Lamm, K. W., Masambuka-Kanchewa F., Lamm, A. J., Davis, K., & Nahdy, S. (2020). Strengthening coordination among extension service providers for improved provision of agricultural extension and advisory services: A case study from Kenya. Journal of International Agricultural and Extension Education, 27(3), 18-26. https://doi.org/10.4148/2831-5960.1100 Please be sure to share your thoughts and feedback in the comments below!