Farms are production centers for crops and livestock, but they are also businesses.
That means farmers who improve their business skills also improve their ability to succeed. A program at the University of Kentucky called Management First is teaching farmers and agribusiness professionals the principles they need to make sound management decisions and enjoy their work. This program developed out of programs at Cornell University and Ohio State. It began in Kentucky as dairy management training, but the principles are the same whether it's dairy or tobacco or vegetables, and we're emphasizing the small business aspects. Strohmeier, along with fellow agents Tim Hendrick of Carroll County and David Hull of Gallatin County, recently hosted a three-day Management First session that emphasized improved communications, better employee relations, and improved organization.