EKU and Mt. Folly team up for climate-smart ag

By Blake Jackson

Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) is teaming up with Mt. Folly Enterprises, a Kentucky-based company focused on sustainable agriculture, in a $5 million project aimed at transforming the region's farming practices. Funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the "Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities" initiative seeks to revolutionize agriculture by promoting practices that benefit both the environment and the farmers themselves.

Ambitious Goals and Local Impact:

This project, led by EKU graduate Ben Pasley, CEO of Mt. Folly, has ambitious goals. It aims to:

• Empower 100 small- and medium-sized farms: The project will provide $10,000 incentives to farms in the Ohio River Valley to adopt climate-smart practices, reducing carbon footprint and promoting sustainable agriculture.
• Create a regional food chain: By shortening the distance food travels, the project aims to boost local economies, reduce emissions, and increase food security.
• Test and showcase climate-smart solutions: The project will serve as a model for other regions, demonstrating the effectiveness of various climate-smart practices in the Ohio River Valley context.

EKU's Role: Verification and Expertise:

EKU plays a crucial role in ensuring the project's success. Dr. John Settimi, an EKU agriculture professor, and his graduate assistants will monitor and verify that participating farms implement the approved climate-smart practices, ensuring accountability and maximizing environmental impact.

Climate-Smart Practices in Action:

The project focuses on 10 USDA-approved practices chosen for their effectiveness in the region. These include:

• Prescribed grazing: Rotational grazing to optimize pasture health and carbon sequestration.
• Cover crops: Planting winter crops to capture carbon and improve soil health.
• Composting and biochar: Utilizing organic matter to improve soil fertility and carbon storage.
• Legume planting: Introducing nitrogen-fixing plants to enrich soil and reduce fertilizer needs.
• Silvopasture: Integrating trees into grazing lands for shade, forage, and carbon sequestration.

A Promising Future for Sustainable Agriculture:

The Mt. Folly project stands as example of sustainable agriculture. By empowering farmers, fostering local economies, and promoting environmentally responsible practices, this initiative has the potential to change the agricultural landscape of the Ohio River Valley and beyond.

Photo Credit: USDA