Success should be demonstrated by actual outcomes, meaning actions taken, rather than intended outcomes or in educational gains of clients. That the information was actually used to make a positive difference should be indicated. Happiness about an activity or statements of intentions to change are not sufficient to indicate a program success story. Reduced Cotton Tillage Program Produces Savings Problems with wind and sand injury on cotton in the spring has resulted in Cooperative Extension focusing educational programs on reduced tillage farming methods. Acres of reduced tillage in Bertie County has increased from 500 to 20,000 in 1997.
Most farmers are strip tilling, using hooded sprayers and never cultivating the cotton.
Educational programs and farm visits have assisted farmers in equipment selection adjustments, along with herbicide selection and rates. Results have been the use of less herbicides, reduced tillage trips, savings on land preparation time in the spring, reduced cultivations, better weed control, increase in organic matter and better stands with no wind damage. Many high school students do not have the opportunity to see first hand what is involved in a career of their choice. Wayne County 4-H collaborated with a civic club to conduct a shadowing program in which 102 high school students experienced a day with an adult in a career of their choice. The day ended with a luncheon to honor the students and recognized the adult volunteers.