Farmers, a large commercial bakery and the public all benefit from a project led by the North Carolina Extension Service in Cabarrus County. The Livestock agent worked with a large commercial bakery to investigate the potential use of bakery waste as a livestock feed source. Five farms now use waste bakery product as cattle feed. This saves the bakery $35,000.00 annually in hauling and landfill fees. Farmers save $50,000.00 annually in reduced feed purchased. The public benefits by over 500 tons annually of bakery waste not needlessly filling landfills.

2. Ralph Blalock

Four beef producers in Edgecombe County were searching for better marketing opportunities for their feeder calves. The producers felt they were not receiving the real value of their calves based on the improved genetics and management practices they had adopted. Extension was asked to help with better marketing possibilities. Extension conducted two meetings with producers and three on-farm tests to help coordinate breeding programs and management practices. The four producers formed a cooperative to market their calves together as a truckload lot directly off the farm. Three cattle buyers were contacted and bids were accepted. Extension coordinated the grouping and description of the cattle. The result of the cooperative effort netted the producers $5,112 extra dollars of $50.12 per head above what they would have received individually at the graded calf sale. The producers plan to continue this cooperative management and marketing effort.

3. Jackie Nix

High levels of nitrates in hay can prove to be fatal if fed incorrectly. Death losses of 20% or more are not uncommon. Due to the forage analysis generated as part of a hay probe demonstration in Lenoir County, one cattle producer learned that his winter hay supply contained excessive nitrate levels. Because of this knowledge the producer administered a microbial preparation, designed to prepare the rumen for high nitrate forages, to 15 head of cattle valued at roughly $5,500. With this treatment, the cattle will be able to safely eat this hay. Preventative treatment cost just $62 and averted at least $1,100 in replacement costs (20% x $5500) plus potential veterinary bills.

4. Jeff Carpenter

Cattlemen's Association members in Catawba County identified a need for unbiased information on mineral supplementation for beef herds in this area. Many cattlemen were confused with the variety of mineral supplements available and the wide range of prices. Animal Husbandry specialists at NCSU were consulted for a recommendation on a custom mineral mix for cow-calf herds and association members then solicited bids based on that formula. A bid was awarded and since March of 1998 local cattlemen have fed approximately 30 tons of this custom mineral supplement. At a savings $3.00 per bag this group has collectively saved $3,600 by pooling orders. Many members had previously fed a substandard mineral or had provided a high quality mineral only occasionally.

5. Darrel Conley

Marketing of feeder calves has always been a concern of beef producers in Rutherford County. As a result of Extension sponsored tours, field day and educational meetings, producers have realized the advantages of cooperatively marketing calves. In 1998 six producers worked together to pool 240 feeder calves to sell in trailer load lots. Figures from producers indicate that these cattle averaged approximately 550 pounds and sold approximately ten cents per pound above weekly livestock auctions. With these figures these six producers increased their income by $13,200. Reduced shrinkage of calves, no sale fees and no hauling fees make this program even more beneficial to these producers.

6. Jeff Copeland

The northeastern area wool pool is one of only three held annually in North Carolina. A joint effort of Cooperative Extension Service, N. C. Department of Agriculture and sheep producers, this year's pool held in Chowan County covered an area from Virginia Beach, Va. through eastern N.C. Cooperative Extension agents in Chowan, Perquimans, and Washington counties and Extension Livestock Specialist conducted the wool pool. It would be impossible for producers to market their small amounts of wool individually. (The average payment would be $100 per farmer.) The bottom line results were that 38 sheep producers, many of which are small or part-time farmers gained market accessibility for 8,115 pounds of wool worth $3267.

1. Donna Carver

County and area poultry Extension agents, and poultry Extension specialists from several NCSU CALS Departments worked with other researchers, integrator personnel and turkey growers to reduce production losses caused by disease exposure. Monitoring and educational programs were developed in order to combat Poult Enteritis and Mortality Syndrome (PEMS) which resulted in growers implementing disease prevention and control measures. Educational efforts focused on "why" biosecurity is important in disease prevention. Monitoring efforts centered on the presence and control of human traffic and pests in and around the poultry facilities. This initiative, along with other changes in production schemes, is credited with reductions in cases of PEMS and other diseases. Four turkey companies were involved and all reported improvements in disease control and bird performance. One company reported medication cost savings of 0.6 cents per pound. With production of over 350 million lbs., that's an annual savings of over $2.1 million.

1. W. G. Simmons

The economics of livestock production, particularly swine, is significantly reducing the disposable income of most producers forcing them to seek methods of saving money when possible. The producer cooperative I advise continues to grow adding new members and products and services to those members. The membership now represents 5 states and is offering goods and services for livestock and row crop farmers. The organization serves as a platform or method for me to assist growers with time being the limiting factor Market attempts have taken much time and effort and will continue to do so. Purchases in 1997 neared 6 million dollars with members reporting savings ranging from 5 to over 20 percent.

1. Martha L. Mobley:

The Region 8 REINS program reached over 3,400 horse owners in a nine-county area in 1998 through the work of twelve certified equine volunteers. They provided an estimated 771 hours of volunteer service valued at $11,861. in 1998 alone! Approximately 900 horse owners are receiving their quarterly educational newsletter. Agents in the region work with the volunteers to assist with the programs. Martha Mobley, Franklin County Agent, serves as the regional coordinator in Region 8.

1. Susan Block

Initiated a contagious mastitis control program on a local dairy farm after determining that the herd was infected with an extremely contagious mastitis pathogen. Income lost to culling, reduced milk production, mastitis treatment, increased labor and veterinary consultation were costing the farm an average of $3000 a month. Pathogen identification involved the collaborative work of a local veterinarian team, farm staff and the help of an area area specialist. We were able to sample and culture every quarter on the farm at minimal expense saving the dairyman over $5000. Farm was able to reduce infection rate and begin on the path to eliminating the pathogen from the herd. Program recommended to eliminate the pathogen should increase gross profits by at least 25 percent.

1. Nancy W. Keith

A dairyman was experiencing problems of lowered milk production, reproductive problems, and overall unhealthy cows. Feed samples were taken several times and sent to different labs to test for mycotoxins as well as nutrient analysis. The feeds were high in mycotoxins and the ration being fed was not balanced. After balancing feed rations for them and making recommendations on practices which could reduce mycotoxins in the feeds, they began to see an increase in milk production, reduced reproductive problems and overall much healthier looking cows. Milk has increased approximately 13 pounds/cow/day. This increase in milk production over just a 2-month period adds up to approximately $12,000.

OBJECTIVE 2: North Carolina citizens (farm and non-farm) will address controversial issues(of mutual concern) that relate to animal agriculture, including human nutrition, nuisance identification, food quality assurance, quality of life, economic impacts, and the appropriate treatment of farm animals.

Narrative: Objective 2

Over 5,000 farmers and 102,000 non-farm clientele were provided information about animal agriculture issues and animal food quality standards through a variety of media and youth programs. Nearly 1,000 farms adopted appropriate standards, and procedures to address industry issues. A Farm Animal Awareness Workbook was developed in Lenoir County and distributed to nearly 1000 school children and the internet version has been accessed over 900 times. About 3,000 visitors to Hillsborough Hog Day went through Extension's petting pasture and learned positive aspects of agriculture in Orange County; About 20 % of 14,000 visitors to Ice Cream Days at the Triad Farmers Market visited the Extension display - "Ruminant Recyclers" that illustrated the variety of products a cow can eat in producing milk for various dairy products. "Ruminant Recyclers" and a "Day at the Dairy" along with many live animal exhibits were set up for over 6,000 visitors to NCSU's Farm Animal Days in Wake County. Farm tour visits to animal farms were provided for non-farm youth and adults in Forsyth County and to leadership groups sponsored by the Chambers of Commerce in Randolph and Onslow Counties. Extension agents in Buncombe County worked with other organizations to provide factual information to clarify errors in a local newspaper article about use of bovine somatotropin (BST) and the unrelated bovine disease (BSE). Jackson and Swain Counties worked with consumers to teach about animal and meat handling factors that affect meat quality. A Farm Safety Day Camp was held by Yadkin and Davie Counties involving 75 volunteers, 125 children and 75 of their parents. Organization of a Livestock Producers Association in Buncombe County and a Pork Producers Association in Columbus County will help provide public information on producer issues as well as support for producers. A pilot program committee including swine producers, public officials, and environmental group representatives was formed to address the issues of the swine industry in Columbus County. Rabies information was provided through offices of local veterinarians in Rockingham County; Concerns about animal cruelty issues in Currituck County have led to use of an objective body condition scoring system for horses. Many counties used the opportunity of county fairs to educate the public about animal agriculture. The Beef Quality Assurance Program teaches producers the proper techniques for injections. This will assure wholesome, top quality meat products for consumers.

Number of Units: 36

Measures of Progress:

1. improved knowledge and attitudes about animal agriculture

No. of Farmers 3779

No. of Non-farm citizens 33,422

2. newspaper and other mass media stories/commentaries indicating enlightened information and knowledge about animal agriculture

No. 310

Impacts:

1. Increased understanding and appreciation of animal agriculture

No. farmers 3056

No. of non-farm citizens 21,509

2. Increased understanding of food supply facts and quality standards

No. of farmers 2827

No. of non-farm citizens 75435

3. Farm adopting appropriate standards, practices and procedures to address industry concerns and issues

No. 1468

Volunteers Involved and Value

Volunteers (number) 771

(hours) 4752

($ value) $47520

Success Stories:

1. Martha Mobley

In May, 1998, the second annual "Animal Agriculture Field Day" was held in the county with 600 third graders learning directly from 12 livestock producers about animal production. Issues such as waste management and water quality were also discussed. AUnited Way grant was acquired to assist with conducting this very successful event. WRAL Channel 5 Farm News, along with a local radio station, broadcast live during the event also reaching the non-farm public about the importance of animal agriculture in Franklin county.

Karen Spivey

410 fourth graders and 72 adults gained knowledge and understanding of the importance of beef cattle production as a result of the "Ag On The Go in Onslow" field day led by Onslow county Extension. Participants were shown an actual cattle skull and digestive system to learn about the unique way that cattle utilize forages in their diet. Students were allowed to touch samples of the linings of the four distinct "stomachs" of cattle. A display featuring by-products of cattle production was used to teach participants about the ways livestock impacts our daily lives. Evaluations returned by the teachers indicated that the interactive learning opportunity had increased their students' interest in agriculture.

1. Brian Beer

A high percentage of consumers have an unsatisfactory eating experience involving meat dishes. To help educate consumers about this problem, the livestock agent and the FCS program assistant for the Swain county Extension center organized a "Factors Affecting Meat Quality" workshop. Participants learned how animal genetics, meat preparation and cooking methods affect the tenderness and quality. Food safety issues were also discussed, along with precautions and procedures that should be followed to prevent foodborne illnesses. Through the use of pre and post tests, it was determined that participants had an average increase in knowledge of 20 percent. Several participants have stated that they use tips learned in the workshop while shopping and preparing meat dishes at home with success.

1. Karen Spivey

Onslow county agriculture producers, county commissioners, other citizens and the media gained knowledge of the research and programming efforts of the CES through a Agriculture Production Tour conducted by Agriculture Extension Agents. This tour highlighted on-farm tests and projects relating to waste management, cotton pest management, new forages for use in animal waste management, and an innovative greenhouse to teach youngsters about horticulture. Participants have expressed that they gained a greater understanding and appreciation of the work of Extension and the ag producers have indicated an interest in learning more about the new techniques being researched.

CEMP TEAM MEMBERS:

Steve Washburn

Gerda Rhodes

Ben Chase

Barry Foushee

Richard Melton

Richard Lichtenwalner

Todd See

Walter Earle

Mike Stringham

Bob Mowrey

Tom Losordo

Geoff Benson

Ken Anderson

Brian Sheldon

CEMP # 5 - CHILD CARE MAJOR PROGRAM

2. Program Description

The child care Cooperative Extension Major Program has two goals. These goals are 1. to improve the quality of child care and 2. to increase the availability of child care in North Carolina.

Objective #1 is stated as "child care professionals in North Carolina will provide safe, nurturing, appropriate programs for children". This objective has four measures of progress:

- number of providers trained for quality programming

- youth developing skills for baby sitting

- increased number of child care sites licensed or registered

- increased number of sites increasing licensing from A to AA

Objective #2 "The amount of quality care will be increased as a result of improved collaboration among community agencies, increased resource development, and the education of business leaders, county officials, and school personnel". It has three measures of progress:

- Increased awareness and utilization of child care referral agencies and information materials by providers

- number of new and expanded Extension collaborations with community groups

- amount of new financial resources supporting quality child care acquired as a result of Extension collaboration

3. Program accomplishments

Objective 1

Quality child care has many components. Among these are staff training; safe, nurturing environments; positive staff/ child interactions; nutritious food; and appropriate activities for children. Research proves that the quality and amount of staff training have a direct, positive influence on the quality of care offered to children. In 1998 Cooperative Extension Agents had a major impact on quality care in North Carolina through extensive training offered in rural as well as urban areas of the state. In one year over 9,000 child care providers were trained through Cooperative Extension. Agents report that providers who had never been to training before are now coming to their training. The sessions are offered in locations that are convenient for providers and are scheduled at times that fit their needs. In addition 34 child care staff received Child Development credentials with the guidance of Cooperative Extension Agents. All of this work by Cooperative Extension builds the capacity of the staff in child care centers to offer warm, nurturing care for North Carolina's children.

There is also evidence of the correlation between licensing standards and quality care. In 1998 NC Cooperative Extension assisted 33 child care programs to voluntarily increases their licensing rating from A to AA. This means lower child/staff ratios and therefore more attention to the individual child. While licensing standards are the baseline in care, national accreditation is considered "best practice". With assistance from Cooperative Extension Agents, 9 early childhood centers were accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Cooperative Extension is crucial to improving the quality of child care in North Carolina.

Objective 2

Finding high quality, affordable care for children is a dilemma for families. It is particularly difficult to find care in rural ares of the state. Through needs assessments Agents determine where new programs are needed and seek financial assistance to begin programs. In 1998, through the work of Cooperative Extension Agents over $2,327,589 were secured for this important endeavor. This support allowed over 3,000 new slots for children to be created. In addition, 79 new child care centers were started. Clearly the needs of North Carolina families are being addresses by the Cooperative Extension Service.

4. Number of programs reporting accomplishments

Objective 1 - 57

Objective 2 - 33

5. Statewide measures of progress totals:

Objective 1

Number of providers trained for quality programming - 9,788

Number of youth demonstrating skills in babysitting - 1,203

Increased number of child care sites licensed or registered - 205

Increased number of sites increasing licensing from A to AA - 33

Objective 2

Measures of Progress:

Number indicating increased awareness and use - 3,335

Number of new and expanded Extension collaborations - 337

Amount of new financial resources supporting child care acquired as a result of extension collaboration - $2,327,589

6. Statewide impact totals:

Objective 1

Improved skills adopted by child care providers - 8,131

Number of centers accredited by National Assn. for the Education of Young Children - 9

Number of staff who receive Child Development credentials - 34

Objective 2

Increased number of new slots in programs for children - 3,367

Increased number of new child care centers - 79

7. Volunteers involved and value:

Objective 1

Volunteers - 1,817

Hours - 26,489

Value - $264,890

Objective 2

Volunteers - 1,156

Hours - 11,493

Value - $114,930

8. Success Stories

Objective 1

Baby sitting courses are a major component of the training offered by the FCS Agents. One youth who took the course several years ago credited her decision to become a teacher to her babysitting class. In that class she realized that she worked well with children, gained self confidence in working with them, and enjoyed working with children. She is now studying to be a teacher.

Cooperative Extension and the school system collaborate to bring CES resources to youth through after school programs. The After School Care Coordinator for the Iredell-Statesville school system reports an increase in cooperation, an increased sense of community awareness, and an increase in positive leadership traits among the youth of the school system due to the work of the Cooperative Extension Service.

Staff turnover is a major problem for the child care profession. The CCR&R in Harnett County which is sponsored by the Cooperative Extension office has offered extensive training and technical assistance to child care providers. One innovative series of training is geared toward lowering staff turnover. This "new worker" orientation training is offered to staff in both child care centers and family child care homes.

New state regulations regarding training for school-age professionals will be in place starting in September, 1999. To meet the need for course work for school-age providers, the Agent in Gaston County has taught a course at the Community College. This fifteen week course (30 contact hours) was completed by fifteen students. Participants were required to implement concepts discussed in the course in their own programs. Several providers made their programs more child centered, and used more open ended activities. All the participants developed additional skills in working with school-age children.

Objective 2

Because of the school-age care program in Alleghany county, over 150 families have quality care for their children. Without this program, employers would have been negatively impacted because their workers (parents) would have to miss work due to a lack of care for their children.

Test scores of elementary school children in Wilkes county have risen 28%. The Community Schools Coordinator credits this rise in scores to "having a scheduled homework time that is conducive to learning" in the after school program run by Cooperative Extension.

Cooperative Extension Agents are assisting the Governor's Smart Start initiative in many ways. In many counties the Agents were responsible for writing the proposal for the county. They sit on community advisory boards and in some cases chair the committee. Additional grant money coming into the county from Cooperative Extension's efforts on the Smart Start Initiative has led directors to report an improvement in morale among staff and an increased awareness of child care issues among parents.

After school and summer programs have decreased the number of latch key children in Mitchell county by at least 350. A tutorial component of the program has been a factor in the increase in reading and math scores in the schools.

9. Overall narrative (committee work)

1998 was a seminal year for the Child Care (5) CEMP committee.

During this year the child care CEMP:

- Fine tuned the objectives, measures of progress and impact statements

- Created a new template for county reporting

- Carried the suggested changes through the review process becoming the first CEMP to update its reporting system

- Developed a notebook for county Agents

- Conducted training for counties reporting under this CEMP

- Created a Cooperative Extension child care marketing brochure

- Expanded the child care exhibit to illustrate work in the early childhood field

After working and reporting under the original guidelines of our program for 3 years, a decision was made to change/fine tune our objectives and measures of progress. Counties reporting under this program indicated to the committee that we were not accurately recording the work of agents. In September the committee conducted a thorough review of the objectives. Although the two main goals were not changed, the committee felt it necessary to change the measures of progress and impact statements. Given these changes the committee re-wrote the reporting template and took the suggested changes through the review process of the long range plan committee. The new reporting template will be in place for 1999 reporting. A comprehensive notebook was developed and used during training at annual conference. The notebook contains sections on evaluation, reporting, marketing, and resources. The notebook was sent to all counties who did not attend the training so that all 100 counties and the Cherokee reservation now have copies.

The need for child care marketing materials was addressed this year. Three agents on our committee took responsibility for the development and publication of a brochure describing the work of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service in child care. The child care exhibit was updated this year by adding new graphics of young children. The exhibit now has illustrations appropriate for early childhood and school-age children. It has been used in 8 counties this year as well as at the Division of Child Development staff conference, the SOS (Support Our Students) conference, the School-Age Care conference, the 4-H Gala, the NC Community College Presidents conference and a training for the NC Prison Association.

Finally, the number of counties reporting under the child care CEMP has increased this year. Under objective one - 38 counties reported last year while 57 counties reported this year. An increase of 19 counties. For objective two, there was an increase of 8 counties from 25 in 1997 to 33 in 1998.

The work of the CEMP 5 committee will result in:

- increased accuracy in reporting by counties

- more informed county staff

- better marketing of the work of the North Carolina CES

10. Committee members Wanda Hardison, Co-chair, Barbara Vandenbergh, - Co-chair

Carolyn Dunn, Carolyn McKinney, Lou Woodard,

Karen DeBord, Howard Scott,

P. Carolyn Goodman, Carrie Thompson,

Julie Landry, Deborah Womack

CEMP # 6 - COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

I. Brief Program Description: This cooperative extension major program has four major objectives: (1) integrating special audiences into the local community development process; (2) teaching economic development concepts to local leaders; (3) informing local leaders and citizens about economic trends and their expected impacts on the local economy; and (4) facilitating business development assistance by bringing together local private expertise with local needs for business management information.

II. Units Reporting Accomplishment:

Objective 1: 14 counties reporting accomplishments

Objective 2: 8 counties reporting accomplishments

Objective 3: 8 counties reporting accomplishments

Objective 4: 7 counties reporting accomplishments

III. Statewide Measures of Progress Totals:

Objective 1

1. Number of participants gaining awareness and knowledge: 1604

Total number of participants: 1966

1. Number participating in groups: 3088

Total number of participants: 6143

1. New community organizations formed: 12
2. New community development projects formed: 68

Objective 2

1. Number of participants gaining awareness and knowledge of computer models, videos, and fact sheets: 1048
2. Applications made of computer models: 120
3. Applications made of videos: 54
4. Applications made of fact sheets: 137

Objective 3

1. Number of persons attending conferences who increased their awareness and knowledge: 1275
2. Number of requests for additional information: 383

Objective 4

Number of persons attending workshops: 1168

Number of applications made of videos, notebooks, and fact sheets: 126

Number of persons increasing their awareness and knowledge of opportunities: 766

Number of persons increasing their awareness and knowledge of market plans and community analysis: 279

IV. Statewide Impact Totals

Objective 1

1. Number of special audience persons participating in local public hearings: 1790
2. Number of additional special audience persons participating in voting: 189
3. Number of additional special audience persons participating in the labor force: 259
4. Number of additional special audience person participating in the community development process: 1925
5. Number of additional special audience persons participating in community development organizations: 1859

Objective 2

1. Number of persons attending local conferences and distance learning conferences: 1325

2. Percentage of persons rating conference information useful: 75%

Businesses and payrolls attracted to counties as a result of educational information: 33 businesses payroll $250,000

Objective 3

1. Percentage of conference participants rating conference information useful: 84%

2. Number of guidance counselors using information: 4

3. Value of lines of newspaper stories on subject, at $1.50 per line for 10129 lines: $15193.50

Value of radio time on subject, at $20 per minute, for 188 minutes: $3760

Value of TV time on subject, at $100 per minute, for 42 minutes: $4200

Objective 4

1. Number of small and home based business start-ups and annual payroll resulting form educational efforts: 20 start-ups $158739 annual payroll
2. Number of small and home based business plans developed: 30
3. Number of persons increasing their income through participation in the community development process: 130
4. Number of community analyses performed: 4

V. Volunteers and Value

Objective 1

Number: 975

Hours: 10214

Value @ $10/hour: $102,140

Objective 2

Number: 230

Hours: 622

Value @ $10/hour: $6,220

Objective 3

Number: 56

Hours: 384

Value @ $10/hour $3840

Objective 4

Number: 62

Hours: 730

Value @ $10/hour $7,300

VI. Success Stories

Over 100 community club members and volunteers have worked together to improve the Oconaluftee Island Park. $90,000 has been raised to build a bridge, add bathrooms and a native plant garden. Over 200,000 people have used this island during the last year. This saved the tribe over $25,000 of tribal levy.

The County Extension staff provided continuous training for advisory boards of non-profit community based organizations. Training provided assistance to organizational leaders for planning and implementing community and economic development projects to support work force development, economic development and tourism efforts in the county. One new community development organization was established to build the base of an emerging economic development coalition in Beaufort County. More than 200 new community leaders participated in the community development programs. Eight grassroots leaders trained in the program are serving on public boards and commissions. A business incubator, established with technical assistance from the Cooperative Extension Service, created two new businesses and is conducting small business training for future job creation in the county. A Heritage Tourism project was implemented by a community organization. Funds were garnered to establish a Heritage Tourism and Education Center.

Family CHAMPIONS (Collaborating to Help and Assist More People in Obtaining Necessary Services) expanded the core program services to the clientele. These services include: parent education, literacy education, job readiness, housing assistance, immunizations, and health services. Extension staff served on the Board of Directors and gave leadership to the parent education component of Family CHAMPIONS. Parents completed 30 contact hours of training. They have changed a number of their practices as parents.

Community residents who met in focus groups in 1995 indicated that communication about available services, programs, and information was a significant need in Jackson County. In response, the Cooperative Extension Service lead an effort to raise over $15,000 to purchase, establish, and maintain a computerized telephone information system. Jackson CountyLINE is provided to all agencies and organizations in the county to record their public information. Teachers can record homework or other information. The system has provided exceptional service to notify citizens when schools are closed due to snow. Many organizations are using the system as a means to disseminate information. As evidence, the system has received about 56,000 calls during the first 18 months. The system has additional community-wide communication potential when a new CountyLINE directory is published and distributed in the summer of 1998.

A group of investors has selected a site in Yancey County for a new hydroponics greenhouse operation. Blue Ridge Greenhouse, Inc., plans to construct approximately 17 acres of greenhouses in Yancey County to produce hydroponically-grown vegetables. An investment of over $10 million is expected to produce about 30-40 new jobs in Yancey County; utilize several hundreds of thousands of dollars in fuel each year; and produce gross sales estimated at $7-9 million annually. Realtors say the site in Yancey County was selected largely because of the considerable assistance and cooperation provided by the Cooperative Extension Service's staff in securing valuable climatic data, networking with various agencies, and genuine concern for location in Yancey County.

WNC Cluster Group 1 coordinated the "Great Smokey Mountains Ecotourism Workshop", held July 26-27, 1998, in Graham County, in order to provide education about and promote ecotourism in extreme WNC for sustainable economic development and conservation in the region. One hundred public and private community officials and leaders attended. International, national, regional, and local speakers from public institutions and private industries presented materials and educational information pertaining to sustainable development, conservation, and tourism to the participants in this two-day initiative. The success was great enough to pursue additional educational opportunities for the public.

A demand for cake decorators, particularly in Charlotte-area grocery stores, has turned into one more way for Mecklenburg County welfare recipients to find work. Nine welfare recipients graduated in June from a two-week pilot course that was a collaboration among the Cooperative Extension Service, Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services, Central Piedmont Community College, and Harris Teeter grocery stores.

VII. Narrative

The effort in community and economic development programs has centered around bringing more resources and enterprises to communities and rural areas, assessing community needs and assets, developing and sustaining local leadership. Twenty-two counties reported efforts in Community and Economic Development in 1998. Many more conducted programs and had impacts. Particularly effective programs have been the development of tourism educational efforts. The western area of North Carolina has held two major tourism related workshops with a third in the planning. These efforts have reached over 300 people interested in establishing, enhancing, or supporting tourism enterprises. Already, extension faculty in western North Carolina are considered leaders in tourism within the state, and creating new partnerships with other organizations and agencies. Extension efforts through educational programs continue to build the number of communities with trained leaders, twelve more were organized in 1998 and 68 new projects were initiated. Communities were also assisted in securing grants and other resources. New enterprises are being founded in rural western North Carolina as well as the development of skills to meet market demands in urban areas. Overall, at least 10,000 people participated in community development programs with an economic impact of over $500,000 to themselves or their communities.

Efforts in 1999 will continue to build on the momentum related to tourism in sustainable and heritage tourism throughout the state. Extension participation will be important as communities in rural areas work toward eliminating unsanitary disposal practices through utilization of state bonds for water and sewer. Leadership and conflict resolution as well as home-based businesses continue to be important as the rural economy fluctuates. As communities struggle to maintain viability, efforts with design professionals will be emphasized and incorporated into community leadership and asset development programs.

VIII. CEMP Members

Edwin Jones

Mike Walden

Chuck Moore

John O'Sullivan

Mitch Renkow

John Richardson

Ellen Smoak

Marilyn Cole

Glenn Woolard

CEMP # 7 - CROP PRODUCTION AND MARKETING SYSTEMS

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Agriculture continues to be critically important to the citizens of North Carolina, bringing in an estimated $2.5 billion annually (approximately 15 percent of the state's total income.) The production of agronomic, horticultural, and forestry crops, while critical our state's economy, also affects the well-being of our rural communities and farm families, and the security of our environment. The diversity of agricultural crops produced in North Carolina has been a key ingredient in establishing and maintaining a viable economy. Yet this diversity is threatened by public opinion, foreign trade agreements, and the elimination of tobacco and peanut quota production. The "Crop Production and Marketing Systems" CEMP addresses the educational needs of full-time farmers, part-time limited resource farmers, agribusiness, and non-farm citizens. Our goal is to provide unbiased, research-based information on production practices, marketing options, understanding and use of new technologies in crop production, environmental concerns, and governmental regulations.

Program Overview: 1998 was a year of change for agribusiness and many North Carolina farmers. Tobacco farmers began to realize the impact of new federal policies and the threat of complete elimination of the tobacco program. Peanut farmers faced a second year of production under reduced quota prices for their commodity, dramatically reducing farm income. Extension state and county programs have partnered to help farmers understand the national program changes and what impact these changes will have on all segments of the industry. In addition, programs through applied research, on-farm demonstrations, and workshops explored potential new production practices that reduce farm inputs and increase product quality. Marketing workshops helped peanut and tobacco farmers realize farm profits in a reduced price market.

1998 also brought a tremendous increase in the use of genetically engineered crops. An estimated 800,000 acres of soybeans, 350,000 acres of cotton, and 7,000 of corn were planted with varieties or hybrids that contain traits inserted through genetic engineering. This acreage is approximately three times that planted in 1997. Growers received variety and hybrid selection information and production updates at field days, county meetings, through newsletters, and in some counties through the Internet. NCCES production and marketing programs have emphasized the need for market awareness of the European and Asian resistance to the use of genetically modified organisms. Besides production and marketing programs, educational programs for the non-farm public were initiated in several counties to address consumer food safety concerns.

A total of 70 counties reported accomplishments under one or more of the seven objectives outlined in the Crop Production and Marketing Systems CEMP. Accomplishments and impacts for each objective are discussed separately.

Objective 1: Tobacco and peanut farmers will be assisted in evaluating alternative production practices, investigating innovative agricultural opportunities and exploring marketing options to ensure continued farm productivity and enterprise profits.

Counties Reporting Accomplishments: 38

Tobacco continues to be an extremely important crop for many North Carolina farmers. One innovation in tobacco production, developed by NCCES faculty and introduced through extension programming, is the marketing of flue-cured tobacco in bales rather than burlap sheets. This concept increases efficiency and competitiveness of North Carolina tobacco. Baling was used on less than 0.1 percent of the crop in 1995, but has been rapidly adopted by farmers and industry to a level of 13 percent of the 1998 crop. Ten tobacco-producing counties reported educational programs related to tobacco baling. With a premium of $.05/pound paid for baled tobacco, these 10 counties reported more than a $2 million increased revenue from receipt of the baling premium. It is estimated that baling will be used on 50 percent of the 1999 crop.

Three peanut producing counties used weather-based monitoring to make decisions about fungicide applications for leaf diseases. These stations monitor weather conditions in the field. This allows fungicide sprays to be based on actual weather conditions instead of making routine sprays. Farmers who used the program in these three counties were able to eliminate one spray this season. This reduced how much pesticide introduced into the environment by 8,620 pounds. At a cost of $10 per acre to spray a fungicide, the growers saved $243,900. Farmers can receive this monitoring information from special call-in lines, newspapers, and agent contacts.

Marketing options were the subject of many extension educational programs. NCCES presented programs that explained the new tobacco program and explored market options and as a result 1,112 farmers in 27 counties adopted new marketing options. These new marketing strategies increased profits for growers by more than $3.4 million.

More than 3,600 producers in 37 counties adopted improved production practices on an estimated 326,900 acres resulting in profits of more near $13 million.

An estimated 1,600 farmers in 31 counties increased awareness of alternative production systems affecting a potential 95,300 acres because of extension tobacco and peanut education programs.

Objective 2: Part-time and limited resource farmers will increase the sustainability of their farms through crop diversification, intensive management practices, water and nutrient management, and expanded markets.

Counties Reporting Accomplishments: 27

There is a continued need to provide part-time, limited resource farmers with information to help increase farm profits. Several counties are making special efforts to involve part-time farmers in extension programs that promote production of high value crops like tobacco or specialty crops. In one county, a tailgate market was formed for a number of part-time farmers. This market allowed farmers to diversify their operations and gave them an outlet for marketing the different crops.

Two counties were particularly innovative in creating market information for consumers. After receiving several calls from individuals looking for choose and cut Christmas trees, the Cross- County Horticulture Agent developed an Internet page listing those growers who were open to the public for retail sales. This web site brought in buyers from several areas of the Southeast. Part-time Christmas tree farmers remarked about their increased sales because of the Internet listing and at least three requested their names be removed because they had sold out. It is estimated that the site helped sell more than 1,500 trees at $30.00 each.

In 1998, extension programs resulted in more than 270 North Carolina farmers in 24 counties including new crops in their operations affecting 6,500 acres. Farm profits for these individuals increased more than $1.1 million because of the extension programs.

Programs on variety selection, use of no-till, BMP and IPM strategies to manage pests and reduce pesticides resulted in 852 adopting the recommended practices in counties, affecting more than 14,393 acres in 24 counties. Profits for these farmers increased more than $1.2 million in 1998.

Objective 3: Farmers will continue to evaluate recommended or conventional production practices and management systems, integrating them into sustainable farming systems.

Counties Reporting Accomplishments: 68

The Cooperative Extension Service conducts powerful educational programs that include the use of meetings and short-courses, electronic and conventional publication, and a vigorous and extensive on-farm test and demonstration programs. Local on-farm demonstrations were critical in illustrating the practicality and economic value of integrating appropriate production practices into the farming systems used by our growers. Such programs led small grain growers in one county to reduce nutrient application by 115 lbs. per acre on 2,000 acres for a savings of approximately $40,000. Farmers in another county have reduced nitrogen use in sweet potato production by 70 pounds per acre, and other growers used 40 pounds less nitrogen on 3,000 acres for a savings of $50,000. In addition to reducing production costs, this reduction in nitrogen use helps protect our state's surface- and ground-water quality.

The use of IPM continues to be a central theme of our educational programs directed to farmers and their consultants. Small grain producers in one county who adopted a new scouting procedure for cereal leaf beetle optimized treatment timing which resulted in an additional $78,400 income. In another county, growers using this program reduced crop protection costs by $4,500 and increased gross return by $47,000. Peanut growers in one county using the NCCES leaf spot advisory program reduced pesticide costs by $20,000.

Continual reevaluation of available pesticides, varieties, and other management decisions is vital to efficient farming. Because of educational programs reviewing available pesticides, small grain producers in one county switched to a more effective (and less polluting) herbicide and increased net returns by $13,750. In another county, cotton and soybean growers modified their weed management programs to reduce per acre costs by $2.00. This resulted in an increase in net profits of $131,000. Proper selection of disease resistant tobacco varieties produced large savings in pesticide input costs and increased yields. Increased profits were $193,000, $169,000, and $505,000 respectively, for the three reporting counties.

In 1998, 67 counties reported that 17,739 citizens increased their awareness and knowledge of efficient production systems with 7,956 growers adopted extension recommendation for BMPs resulting in an increase in farm profits of $13 million state wide. It is estimated that more than $6 million was saved through improved pest management.

Efforts were made to educate producers about practices that help keep production costs below farm income. More than 6,443 North Carolina farmers in 53 counties adopted recommended practices affecting close to one million acres.

Objective 4: Growers and agricultural professionals evaluate and adopt appropriate alternatives to conventional pesticides, nutrients and tillage to enhance environmental quality and maintain profitability.

Counties Reporting Accomplishments: 37

Extension efforts to educate producers about the importance of reducing adverse environmental impacts of farming have been effective. Through meetings, workshops, demonstrations, and field days, extension agents have increased grower awareness of IPM practices and benefits. Programs discussed new disease, insect, and herbicide tolerant varieties and their impact on reducing pesticides. In addition, growers were informed about the potential shift and resistance in pest populations if the same control measures are used without proper rotations. Care must be taken to use the new pest management tools wisely. Educational efforts have also targeted the importance of the use of scouting and spray thresholds to provide more effective pest control and reduce pesticide use. Farmers and consultants were offered scouting training in several areas of the state. Those who participated in the workshops have a better understanding of how to scout for pests and when control measures are needed.

One county introduced an early season cotton insect scouting program. Through the programs, growers were informed of the need to scout for early season insects before making treatment decisions. Many treatments were avoided and beneficial insect populations were enhanced for future pest control. Savings to growers were estimated at $10 per acre when considering labor, machinery and pesticide. Also, 0.5 pounds of pesticide per acre was not introduced into the environment.

Peanuts require high levels of production inputs. Variety NC343, a potential new variety for North Carolina, has significant resistance to many pests affecting peanuts. A test plot was established in one county to determine the potential of using this variety to reduce inputs and maintain profitability. Production was found acceptable with greatly reduced inputs. Use of this variety could reduce production costs by as much as $75 per acre and reduce pesticide use by 2.5 pounds per acre.

Across the state more than 6,500 citizens in 36 counties increased awareness and knowledge of IPM with more than 3,500 producers carrying out recommended practices on 368,780 acres. Implementing these practices saved farmers close to $6 million and reduced pesticide use by 345,877 pounds of active ingredient.

Educational programs have also targeted the benefits and restrictions of no-till production. An increase in no-till production in some areas has resulted in a reduction of soil erosion in environmentally sensitive areas. Some concern about no-till and management of perennial weeds has resulted in additional educational efforts to help growers lower risk of profit loss. Other educational programs have helped growers choose management practices that reduce nitrogen use or promote the use of timely applications. The results are a reduction in nitrogen contamination of surface and ground water. The nursery industry has benefitted from educational programs addressing the proper application of fertilizers, tissue and water analysis, and soil sampling. High quality plants have been produced when growers follow nutrient recommendations and apply nutrients at the proper time. Close to $7 million was saved in 35 counties through the adoption of recommended management practices.

Objective 5: Producers will become knowledgeable of regulations and environmental constraints on production practices, evaluate the impacts of these constraints on their farm, and develop least cost methods of compliance that will maintain quality of farm and rural life.

Counties Reporting Accomplishments: 23

North Carolina farmers at all levels have been affected by changes in the Farm Bill and in federal and state government regulations. Extension programs have been designed not only to inform farmers about new regulations but also to help them comply. Agents report the continued use of meetings and workshops for pesticide training at the county level. Included were topics such as new regulations, proper storage, application and container disposal, worker protection standards, and record keeping. The information presented to producers and agribusiness has given them the knowledge and skills needed to comply with state and federal regulations.

Animal waste management is a critical area for educational need. Extension programs across the state help growers adhere to specified guidelines and make efficient use of waste on crop land and pastures. Emphasis was placed on monitoring nutrient levels to prevent environmental damage. Producers have been helped in the development of waste and nutrient management plans with some agents going further to offer assistance in developing whole farm plans.

Because of a new regulation, all livestock operations exceeding certain numbers are required to have a designated person as the "Operator in Charge" of animal waste management. This individual must be certified and maintain their certification by attending training classes. One county's extension staff has played a major role during these training classes, emphasizing the importance of proper soil and waste sampling and using the results to maximize waste application efficiency for a maximum crop yield. In this one county alone, 11 operators, representing more than 1,500 acres of crop land, received continuing certification credit, and have improved their efficiency by at least $7.50 per acre above any expense of sampling or record keeping. This increases their bottom line as a group by at least $11,250.

More than 4,900 growers in 23 counties increased awareness of BMPs such as soil, water, and tissue analyses, responsible pesticide use, and IPM strategies. More than 2,550 growers in these counties adopted these practices. More than $2.3 million profits were seen when growers adopted extension recommended practices.

Approximately 2,950 producers in 21 counties increased their awareness of the regulations and constraints.

Objective 6: Farmers will utilize and citizens will become knowledgeable about biotechnology and the use, benefits, and risks associated with the production of genetically engineered plants.

Counties Reporting Accomplishments: 19

1998 saw a dramatic increase in the use of genetically engineered varieties, from a little more than 300,000 acres in 1997 to more than a million acres in 1998. An estimated 60 percent of the total soybean acres in 1998 were planted with herbicide resistant varieties created through genetic engineering. Approximately 50 percent of the cotton acreage was planted with varieties that contained Bt and/or Roundup Ready traits. Corn acreage planted with Bt hybrids represented only 1 percent of the acreage and will likely remain low as long as Bt cotton acreage is high. NCCES responded to educational needs in the use of these new varieties through several avenues. Agents in many counties provided side-by-side demonstrations of how herbicide and insect tolerant varieties compare with varieties with traditional pest management strategies. Emphasis was placed on differences in input costs, environmental impact, and management strategies. These Extension programs helped growers understand the potential and limitations of these crops and allowed growers to determine if the new varieties fit into their current management practices. An estimated 2,400 of the producers reached through NCCES programs adopted the application of biotechnology, using the new varieties on more than 208,000 acres. This represented a profit of approximately $2 million that includes a savings of one million dollars in pesticide use.

Many counties reported efforts to educate the public about the positive and negative aspects of using genetic engineering in agriculture. Some counties provided programs for secondary schools. Others targeted adult civic groups. The result of these programs was an increase in knowledge of the use of genetic engineering to produce food, feed, and fiber. Citizens are better qualified to evaluate the use and safety of the new technology. Extension programs reached more than 14,400 citizens giving them an understanding of the use, benefits, and risks associated with food, food products, feed, and fiber crops generated from genetically engineered crops.

Objective 7: Farmers, farm organizations, and agribusinesses will become knowledgeable of local and global market factors and develop strategies to cope with or take advantage of these factors to maximize farm profits.

Counties Reporting Accomplishments: 23

Education programs were delivered in several counties to help producers explore new markets and marketing options. County or multi-county meetings provided North Carolina farmers and agribusiness with information about alternative marketing systems and the benefits of using these systems. Workshops in several counties focused on global markets, global competition and their impact on North Carolina producers. The information helped producers make better decisions about when and how to market commodities produced on their farms.

In 1998, more than 4,050 citizens in 23 counties became aware global trends and trade policies. Eighteen counties reported 453 producers adopted practices associated with new products and 614 in 21 counties adopted practices that influence marketing success. The result was an increase of $1.8 million because of the adoption of new marketing strategies and $809,200 increase due to adoption and marketing of new products.

Success Stories:

Person Reporting: Ruth Cliff

The demand for professionalism in the ornamental nursery and landscaping industry continues to grow in Western North Carolina. Three Cooperative Extension Agents collaborated to teach a plant identification course to prepare employees of local ornamental enterprises for the North Carolina Nurserymen's Certified Plant Professional Exam. Of the more than 45 participants of the training over 50% took the exam. This group had an average passing rate of 90 percent compared with 55 percent for the other constituents who had not participated in the training. At a time when trained employees are a scarcity, this certification will serve to increase the retention of quality employees in the ornamental industry.

Person Reporting: William J. Griffin, Jr.

Peanut diseases cost producers in Bertie County several million dollars each year. A peanut disease monitoring system to predict disease development is being used in the county to alert farmers of leaf spot and sclerotinia blight disease development. Readings are taken each day and recommendations given on an answer machine to inform farmers if conditions are favorable for disease development. Making needed spray protections when conditions are favorable is very critical for disease control. The decision not to spray during unfavorable conditions saves growers' money and reduces pesticide use. In 1998, the use of peanut disease monitoring and following recommendations of the agent saved farmers $338,040.

Person Reporting: Roger N Cobb

Tobacco baling, a new way to market flue-cured tobacco in the US, was demonstrated on three farms last year. In 1998, 28 farmers used baling as a way to increase farm income. Approximately 40 percent of the tobacco in the county was baled and sold for an average four cent premium. The net increase in income was $80,000.

Person Reporting: Craig R. Adkins

A small greenhouse grower was experiencing bacterial disease problems with his 1998 poinsettia crop. When plant decline and death started, the grower was having to cull an average of $125 worth of plants per day. The grower contacted the NCCES agent after losing $1,250 of his potential $40,000 crop. The problem was identified and appropriate control measures started. Over the next two months the grower lost only three plants to the disease. The grower was able to sale 92% of his 1998 crop for $36,000.

Person Reporting: James R. Pearce

Peanuts are a major crop in Edgecombe County. In the past it has offered farmers an opportunity to make a reasonable profit per acre. Unfortunately the support price for peanuts was dropped by 10% in 1996 and was also frozen for the next seven years. The only way to keep or increase profits is to increase yield and cut inputs. The Extension Center has targeted educational programs that stress maintaining yields while decreasing the use of pesticides. A major effort to lower fungicide usage based on weather conditions saw one-half of all producers saving an average of $30 per acre. This resulted in a savings of $216,000 in 1998 while also reducing the amount of pesticides being released to the environment.

Person Reporting: Peter Hight

The Agricultural Extension Agent visited with seven Vance County growers who had tobacco dying. The agent identified the problem as black shank, a soil-borne fungus disease that kills tobacco. Each of these growers was anxious to take some action, primarily to apply a systemic fungicide. The agent advised them not to apply the fungicide, because at the advanced stage of crop growth, research conducted at North Carolina State University suggested that no benefit would be derived. The growers followed the agent's advice, saving $17,094 in chemical and application expenses more than 462 acres. In spite of some losses from disease, the growers produced a full crop because of excellent yields in the non-diseased portion of their crop. The growers saved money and avoided unnecessary chemical application in the environment.

Person Reporting: Craig R. Adkins

A cut flower grower producing field grown sunflowers for an early spring market was experiencing poor stands and yields (20% in 1997). He approached the NCCES agent about ways to increase his spring stand and yields. The grower was open to the agent's advice of seeding the sunflowers in the greenhouse and then transplanting them to the field. This resulted in a 90% yield in 1998, and an increase in profits from $3,600 (1997) to $16,200 (1998) on his spring grown sunflower crop.

Person Reporting: Derek Day

In 1997, a Person County tobacco producer lost 22 percent of his crop to black shank. This grower's situation was made difficult because of his inability to rotate with non-susceptible crops. By following recommendations provided by the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service, this grower reduced his losses to zero in 1998 and was able to produce an additional 1,100 pounds of tobacco per acre, increasing his gross income by $175,000 in one season.

Person Reporting: Donald G. Nicholson

Repeated cultivation of cotton is an accepted production practice used by many cotton producers to keep the crop weed free. Three cotton producers chose to use a hooded sprayer to keep the cotton weed free. With Extensions guidance, these farmers were able to clean up their crops and conserve the available soil moisture in an extended drought. This allowed them to harvest an extra 200 pounds of lint per acre on 1,400 acres, compared with farmers who chose to cultivate. The extra lint was worth $168,000.00.

Program Progress and Accomplishments:

County and campus faculty working under The Crop Production and Marketing Systems CEMP have developed and delivered programs addressing needs of all segments of the agricultural industry, from the producer to the consumer. Local programs have helped limited resource farmers diversify, producing crops that meet local needs and taking advantage of alternative marketing strategies. These programs increased farm profits more that $1.2 million in 1998.

Extension has helped tobacco growers understand and prepare for the change and inevitable loss of the tobacco program by providing information to reduce inputs, increase farm profits through diversification, improve farm management strategies, and make better marketing decisions. Educational programs have helped farmers reduce farm labor costs through better management of the labor force and better pest management programs. Growers have also made better decisions about variety selection. The incorporation of new disease resistant varieties have saved growers money, reduced the amount of pesticides, and reduced labor costs. A new marketing system of baling tobacco was introduced through extension education programs. This new system has increased net farm income with little investment.

The decline in the peanut support price made reducing production costs even more critical. Extension programs provided weather-based advisory systems to decide the need for foliar fungicide sprays. This strategy, part of an overall Integrated Pest Management approach, has reduced pesticide use and production costs. More growers are implementing insect and disease management programs based on need rather than a regular spray schedule. Not only are profits maintained, but production is more environmentally sensitive. Growers are delivering a more mature and thus higher quality peanut to the sheller because of extension programs that offer assistance in evaluating maturity of a farmer's field.

Extension efforts to educate producers on the importance of reducing adverse environmental impacts of farming have been effective. Through meetings, workshops, demonstrations, and field days, extension agents have increased grower awareness of the benefits of Integrated Pest Management and Best Management Practices. Programs discussed new disease, insect, and herbicide tolerant varieties and their impact on reducing pesticides. In addition agents discussed potential concerns about weed shifts and resistance and talked about measures growers should take to avoid major problems in the future. Educational efforts have also targeted the importance of the use of scouting and spray thresholds to provide more effective pest control and reduce pesticide use.

Educational programs have also targeted the benefits and restrictions of no-till production. An increase in no-till production in some areas has resulted in a reduction of soil erosion and run off in environmentally sensitive areas. Some concern about no-till and management of perennial weeds has resulted in additional educational efforts to help growers lower risk of profit loss. Other educational programs have helped growers chose management practices that reduce nitrogen use or promote the use of timely applications. The results are a reduction in nitrogen contamination of surface and ground water. The nursery industry has benefitted from educational programs addressing the proper application of fertilizers, tissue and water analysis, and soil sampling. High quality plants have been produced when growers follow nutrient recommendations and apply nutrients at the proper time.

Animal waste management is a critical area for educational need. Extension programs across the state help growers adhere to specified guidelines and make efficient use of waste on crop land and pastures. Emphasis was placed on monitoring nutrient levels to prevent environmental damage. Producers have been helped in the development of waste and nutrient management plans with some agents going further to offer assistance in developing whole farm plans.

County and multi-county meetings and workshops, provided North Carolina farmers and agribusiness with information about alternative marketing systems. Several tobacco programs focused on the global market and on global competition and its impacts on North Carolina producers as well as alternative marketing strategies. The information helped producers make better decisions about when and how to market the commodities produced on their farms.

Committee members: Jan Spears, Chair, Steve Hodges, Doug Sanders, Blake Brown, Michael Shaw, Craig McKinley, Mike Linker, Roger Cobb, Sterling Southern, David Smith.

CEMP # 8 - FAMILY & CONSUMER ECONOMICS

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The Family & Consumer Economics CEMP promotes informed financial management and other consumer decision making by individuals and families. Serious problems at all income levels can in many cases be prevented, and Objectives 8.1 through 8.4 emphasize problem prevention through education on basic money and credit management, saving/investing for the future, obtaining and maintaining affordable housing, consumer fraud, and senior health care/insurance. For financial problems requiring immediate attention and assistance, Family&Consumer Education Agents provide accurate information about and make referrals to appropriate counseling and intervention services. Objective 8.5 emphasizes that household members are also producers of goods and services to extend &/or increase income. Agents are encouraged to recruit and organize experienced volunteers to deliver skill training to youth and adults, while the Agents focus on family and business resource management aspects of income extension and production.

ABSTRACT: As of 1/13/99, 63 units had submitted 139 County Reports for 1998. More than 43000 people with diversity in age, marital status, gender, education level, income, and type of employment gained knowledge from program activities reported under one or more of the five CEMP#8 objectives. Highest priority was given to providing educational programs for persons with limited access to information, limited resources, lower reading levels, &/or specific concerns requiring consumer information on budgeting, credit, &/or the need for savings. FCE Agents worked closely with other agencies/organizations, teaching working poor audiences trying to achieve financial self-sufficiency, including: Work First w/DSS; EBT (food stamp debit cards) w/DSS; EIC (Earned Income Credit) w/IRS & CBPP; EFT'99 (Direct Deposit campaign) w/U.S.Treasury; and IDAs (Individual Development Accounts) w/ NC Depts.of Commerce and Labor. Other program priorities were: elder health care/insurance; consumer fraud prevention; and selection/care of affordable housing. Other targeted audiences were: military personnel & families (Marine Corps, Army and plans for work w/ the Air Force in '99); young people (promoting HSFPP and other Jump$tart Coalition-recommended curricula as part of a 10-year national campaign to promote K-12 personal finance education); and mid-life adults, including farmers and other family-owned businesses (as part of the five-year national SAVER campaign to provide critical information on saving and investing for future financial security. 1585 volunteers gave 14438 hours valued at $144380 to help FCEA deliver effective CEMP #8 programs.

NUMBER OF UNITS REPORTING ACCOMPLISHMENTS FOR EACH OBJECTIVE:

63 counties submitted 139 accomplishment reports: 8.1 = 33, 8.2 = 30, 8.3 = 19, 8.4 = 40, 8.5 = 17

STATEWIDE MEASURES OF PROGRESS, IMPACTS, VOLUNTEERS & NARRATIVES

OBJECTIVE 8.1 - Basic Money Management for LRA - 33 counties. Limited resource consumers and families will make and use money management plans and adopt decision-making practices that will help them achieve family financial goals. (Info on programming for Work First and other LRA was also reported under 8.2, 8.3, 8.4, and 8.5)

Measures of Progress: 4307 people increased awareness and knowledge about money management and the decision-making process; 1216 personal goals were made and written; 2530 people identified family and community resources; 1829 people demonstrated ability to use the money management skills and decision-making approach learned; $40747 dollars of debt were reduced.

Impacts: 1093 money management plans were made; 686 people attained personal goals; $84299 dollars were saved or reallocated to meet family needs; 1136 individuals or families improved self-sufficiency; 645 people succeeded in the reduction of debt level.

Volunteers: 161 volunteers donated 731 hours, valued at $7310.

Narrative. Families striving to obtain self-sufficiency through improved money management skills participated in programs ranging from basic money management, to rebuilding and establishing credit, to consumer saving strategies. Training was conducted on the MoneyMax for staff who agreed to participate in pilot testing this program for LRA. Four team members took part in 5/98 agent training on: From Welfare to Well-Being. Other training on designing money management programs for LRA was conducted for county staff and other state agencies. The skills obtained helped limited resource families qualify for home ownership subsidies, lower expenses for utilities and household goods, and reduce the amount of debt owed. Through follow-up evaluation, limited resource participants revealed how the information and skills learned are being used, and the impact on their daily lives. Many limited resource families are saving for the first time. They are also implementing strategies that reduce wasteful spending, which allows them to meet their basic family needs and make progress toward reaching goals. For instance, limited resource families in 33 counties reported saving or reallocating $84299 in 1998. Goals were set and written by 1220 individuals. A total of 690 participants reported reaching their goals. Shedding their costly debt situation was considered to be a major way to improve their financial situation by limited resource participants. Six hundred and forty-five individuals reduced their debt load by $40747.

OBJECTIVE 8.2 Financial Planning Over the Life Cycle - 30 counties. Consumers will increase knowledge of and adopt financial planning techniques to meet changing responsibilities for self and others over the life cycle. (Programming on financial security is also reported under Objective 1.1)

Measures of Progress: 6335 people increased awareness and knowledge of financial resources; 1400 people demonstrated goal setting, making financial plans and record keeping skills; 2907 people acquired knowledge of best management practices such as increased savings and investments, reduced consumer debt, more money designated for retirement management; 4418 people increased satisfaction with ability to use resources

Impacts: 2009 demonstrated success in obtaining, protecting and using financial resources; 1106 adopted a financial planning and record keeping system; 752 documented a plan for resources over life cycle; 1151 people improved their financial status resulting from financial planning

Volunteers: 261 volunteers donated 2462 hours, valued at $24620.

Narrative. 30 counties reported working with a variety of general and targeted audiences. Young people were reached through: workshops/day camps for the public, 4-H and other groups; in the schools (esp. the High School Financial Planning Program). Financial management programs were offered to adults on: budgeting & record keeping; credit management; how and why to save money; investment fundamentals; budgeting for home ownership; planning for college costs; pre-retirement planning; tax issues; living on a retirement budget; and the impact of consumer fraud on otherwise sound financial plans. The new Money In/Money Out curriculum was introduced at 9/98 agent training and 23 agents began pilot testing it with worksite audiences. Targeted adult audiences included: mid-life and older women for the Women's Financial Information Program; prospective/current Medicare beneficiaries (7/98 agent training); prospective and current Habitat for Humanity homeowners; and pre-retirement audiences, especially farmers and other family-owned businesses (6/98 agent training). Extensive retirement planning resources were provided to every county from an Ag Foundation grant, and a poster on the program titled "Aim for Financial Security in Retirement" was manned at all seven of the Nickels for Know-How meetings.

OBJECTIVE 8.3 Housing Affordability - 19 counties. Families, individuals and special needs groups will make informed decisions in securing and maintaining affordable housing that meets their changing needs. (Info on housing programming for LRAs is also reported under Objective 8.1)

Measures of Progress: 1136 people adopted practices which led to living independently or living in affordable housing; 1749 people increased awareness and knowledge about housing financial decisions; 1380 increased awareness and knowledge of household budgeting; 2473 people increased awareness and knowledge about housing maintenance and/or repair; 2723 increased awareness and knowledge about selection of affordable home furnishing and home improvements

Impacts: 387 people had success finding, securing and maintaining housing; 581 people adopted and implemented successful budgets for housing; 1477 people succeeded in budgeting for repair, maintenance &/or remodeling costs; 505 people succeeded in living independently in own home.

Volunteers: 170 volunteers donated 552 hours, valued at $5520.

Narrative. 19 counties reported on a variety of affordable housing programs. Topics included whether to rent or buy, multiple aspects of the home buying decision and post-home buyer decisions. Educational activities were reported on how to budget for: getting into new housing (rental or purchase); selecting and caring for furnishings; maintenance and repairs; and remodeling. Counties reported specific programming for residents of housing authority units, first-time home buyers, Habitat families, Independent Living groups, and other homeowners. Agents were trained in 5/98 on Home Modifications and Basic Home Construction, and Housing Issues were presented as part of 5/98 training on: From Welfare to Well-Being.

OBJECTIVE 8.4 Consumer Decision Making - 40 counties. Individual consumers and families will learn decision-making skills and adopt practices that make better use of available resources and improve their financial status.

Measures of Progress: 11536 increased awareness and knowledge of consumer decision making skills in such areas as financial services, insurance, transportation, health care, elder care; 3091 adopted practices in the selection and care of consumer products that extend use and reduce costs; 2720 adopted practices in the selection and use of consumer services; 2963 increased knowledge of consumer credit options and concerns; 3565 increased awareness and knowledge of public policy issues affecting consumers

Impacts: 4657 increased skill and satisfaction with consumer decisions; $133797 costs avoided through selection and care of consumer goods; $147356 financial status of individuals and families improved; 1308 people increased participation as informed consumers in the public policy debate on consumer issues

Volunteers: 598 volunteers donated 5908 hours, valued at $59080.

Narrative. 40 Counties reported educational programs on consumer decision-making issues of concern to general audiences such as senior citizens, young families, and youth. Targeted audiences included worksite groups, agency staff, prison inmates, teen parents, Work-First families. Topics included: shopping skills and consumer credit decisions; auto purchase, insurance, and maintenance; clothing selection and wardrobe management; credit and telemarketing fraud prevention; elder care options; Medicare+Choice and Medicare Fraud (7/98 agent training plus 17-site videoconference). EH Liaison Agents facilitated telemarketing fraud training in preparation for the 11/98 FCE Sting.

OBJECTIVE 8.5 Extending and Increasing Income - 17 counties. Individuals and families will extend and/or increase income through home production for family use &/or production and marketing of goods or services through employment or self-employment.

Measures of Progress: 3187 increased awareness and knowledge of practices to extend or increase income; 2197 attained skills to produce consumer goods; 1705 adopted practices to extend or increase income; 742 increased knowledge of home-based/other small business; 2725 increased decision-making skill regarding employment or self-employment

Impacts: $55487 dollars saved through practices to extend income: $29625 increased income through employment: $39775 increased income through self-employment: 1031 improved use of human and financial resources

Volunteers: 395 volunteers donated 4785 hours, valued at $47850.

Narrative. 17 Counties reported on educational programming for individuals and families to extend income &/or increase income. The overriding need for better management of available income is met in part by educating adults and youth to produce some of their household goods and services. The need for additional income is met in some cases by educating adults and youth about home-based and other types of small business, and providing info on available resources. Agents reported on: organizing volunteers to teach the skills needed for home production (to extend income) and/or to increase marketable skills (to increase income); and on educational activities, in cooperation with other groups that counsel and assist small business, to meet the educational needs of current and prospective small business owners. Nineteen FCE Agents and three FCS Specialists took part in national training on the new CES curriculum: Cashing In on Business Opportunities - A Guide to Building a Home-Based and Micro Business Program, and a copy of the curriculum was provided to every county from a CRD grant.

OVERALL CEMP#8 SUCCESS STORIES

8.1 Greene County: 24 Even-Start participants identified personal goals in a four-week money management course designed to reduce debt load and increase savings. 18 participants received their credit report for the first time and learned how to read it. 20 percent found errors that were corrected or expected to be corrected in the following year. Six participants began savings, which totaled $500. Three single parent moms saved $126 in utility bills by lowering thermostats. They also lowered water bills by $20 by adding a two-liter bottle to their tank to decrease water levels. Goals were set for 1999 by each participant to reduce debt and obtain personal items.

Sampson County: Extension and First Citizens Bank joined forces to instruct Work First participants in the mechanics of basic consumerism. The seven hours of training consisted of money control practices, budgeting, banking services and decision making. Of 26 participants, 20 reported increased efficiency in consumer skills, 8 reported developing a budget, 9 reported positive improvement in use of banking services, specifically eliminating the writing of checks when there are insufficient funds (avoiding costs to participants of approximately $1080).

Guilford County: Individuals receiving public assistance have been forced to restructure spending practices due to welfare reform and cuts in government funding in general. To address this problem, a program was implemented in Guilford County with the objective of teaching basic money management principles, entitled "Money Talks." The four-week series was conducted for twenty individuals who reside in two government-subsidized housing communities through collaborating with Westminster Properties. As a result of the program 20 individuals reported that they developed and were using a personal budget, 20 individuals set personal financial goals, and participants reported a combined savings of approximately $1000 from using information from the program. The resident services manager said the program was super and greatly benefited both communities.

8.2 Union County: To address the need for financial education among women, a Women's Financial Information Program was offered. A planning coalition of 6 agencies and 3 citizen volunteers planned and implemented the program, recruiting 10 speakers, 6 facilitators, 26 participants, a free facility, and sponsored graduation lunch. All participants rated the 7-week series as "excellent." Specific impacts involved empowerment to be better organized, take care of details, know helpful resources, plan ahead, invest for the future, and have confidence in handling financial affairs. All said they would recommend the series to a friend, and to women of all ages. For $12 each, participants received hundreds of dollars worth of expert information.

Rowan County. NCCES in Rowan County developed four investment clubs to provide educational knowledge/strategies to improve savings/investments, and to enable improved personal financial confidence. Results: one club's investment return=39.5%; other return ranges are from 21-32%. Monthly the 92 members study, research and expand knowledge under Extension's guidance, using local/regional resources for program implementation. 88 committed people express gratitude for providing valuable learning experiences: "learned to comprehend/apply value lines," "transferred knowledge to improve family retirement plans," "opened a new world of interest," "started at ground 0' and can now research/analyze and make stock judgments," and "feel much more confident in making family financial decisions." Members improved family investments.

Forsyth County. In response to an increasing need for employees to understand work-related retirement planning options, CES's Triad Money Management Center collaborated with EFG Technologies and presented an investor education series to 74 employees. 48 enrolled in their ESOP plan for the first time as a result of the classes. 34 changed investment options for a better return over the long term as a result of education. 94 percent of participants said this program reinforced the value of unbiased investor education for employees from an educator, not a salesperson.

8.3 Guilford County: Many limited resource families need sound consumer information in order to effectively manage their resources. To address this need, Extension cooperated with DSS and the Summit House Corrections Program in sponsoring workshops for 35 participants on Cleaning with Pizazz: Housecleaning Made Easy. Participants gained knowledge and skills, and became aware of ways to keep their houses clean without being costly to their budget. They learned how to mix household ingredients to create homemade window cleaner to cut costs, and how to organize and prioritize work to get housekeeping done. 21 participants acquired skills and adopted practices to make better use of available resources and improve home management practices. 31 participants indicated they saved an estimated $1743.

Johnston County. In conjunction with Johnston County Housing Assistance Program (HAPP) and USDA Rural Development, Extension prepared ten low income adults for new home ownership. For the second time, a six-hour course was offered to take participants through the steps necessary to locate and finance a new home, and after the purchase to maintain the interior of the property. The benefits of homeownership were made clear. All participants said the classes helped alleviate some of the fears they had about the homebuying process and cleared up a lot of the mystery. In order to become eligible for monies available from HAPP and Rural Development, participants had to complete the entire six-hour course. All participants from last year's program still own their homes.

Guilford County. Consumers in 1997 spent $53 billion on home furnishings (American Manufacturers Assoc.) "It's Spring - Revitalize Your Home" was a 3-hour workshop challenging consumers with practical skills in making wise consumer choices in spending money on home furnishings. All 68 participants reported that they had gained new ideas, the information was useful, information will save money, and that they will put what they learned into practice. They estimated the impact realized by attending the workshop averaged over $600 per person.

8.4 Edgecombe County. According to an AARP survey, fraudulent telemarketers cost North Carolina consumers over $200,000,000 each year. Twenty-seven percent of the public admits being persuaded by potentially fraudulent telemarketers, who often target the elderly. To address this concern, educational programs on telemarketing fraud were conducted for 85 senior adults. The program focused on prize offers, sweepstakes scams and recovery schemes. The majority of participants acknowledged they received unwanted phone solicitations. More than 60 percent of participants indicated that the knowledge gained would increase their skill and confidence in responding to phone solicitations. The seniors also responded they would better protect their financial status by refusing to send money or give credit card or bank account numbers to telemarketers.

Iredell County. Twenty-nine high school students participated in a two-session SMART SHOPPING class developed by the FCE Agent. Impacts were collected from visual observation, class discussion, written reports and follow-up observation/discussion. Sixteen students learned the importance of having a written budget, 7 planned to use the envelope method of budgeting, 9 learned the importance of keeping records/files, 8 learned the necessity of keeping sales slips/receipts, 15 began using a shopping list, 18 started comparing price and quality before making a purchase, and 15 learned the importance of saving for a desired item. Seventeen of the students shared handout materials with their mother or guardian.

Lincoln County. There is a need to keep the growing population of older adults informed concerning changes in Medicare and other health insurance, and how to handle the paperwork involved. Extension coordinates the work of 8 SHIIP volunteers who assist individuals with health insurance decisions and present health insurance programs to various groups in the county. The volunteers receive update training bi-monthly from the Department of Insurance. Forty individuals have saved an average of $30 monthly as a result of information provided by SHIIP volunteers.

8.5 Cherokee Reservation. Extension hosted seven Area II workshops for 65 persons. Many local people supplement their income by making mountain crafts, which is economic development for the area. These workshops preserve mountain and native American crafts and culture. An estimated $30,000 has been made by local participants from their sale of crafts. Many people must depend on craft sales in the winter months when their livelihood of tourism is low.

Carteret County. Sixteen girls, age 7-17, registered for sewing workshops. Thirteen completed at least one garment; 12 modeled in a Fashion show at the county level; 8 went to the state Back-to-School Sewing with Cotton contest; one participated in the State 4-H Fashion Review during 4 -H Congress. Seven Extension Homemaker leaders helped with the workshops, and 3 mothers attended sessions. Children learned about fabric selection, pattern selection, types of fabric, fibers, how to use a guide sheet, sewing tools, parts of the sewing machine, and how to use a sewing machine. Their sewing enabled them to save money [both at the time and in the future.]

Dare County. "Ready, Set, Go...Empowering to Succeed" is a seminar for Work First participants. A joint effort of DSS's WorkFirst Coordinator and Extension's FCE Agent provided participants with the opportunity to attend three mornings of fun and informative seminars to enhance their job-seeking skills. Topics included Getting Motivated, The Winning Look, Managing Stress, Makeup in the Marketplace, Where Are the Jobs? and more. Participants stated that the sessions were very valuable and appreciated the many speakers who volunteered time to make them aware of the opportunities and resources available.

CEMP #8 TEAM MEMBERS and CO-CHAIRS

Linda Aycock - Nash CED (8.4)

Glennie Beasley - Chatham FCE Agent (8.1)

Jo Ann Cope - Macon FCE AGENT (8.5)

Jim Daughtry - Jones et al. Area Farm Management Agent (8.2)

Sarah Kirby - NCSU Housing Specialist (8.3)

Janice Holm Lloyd, Co-Chair - NCSU Area FRM Specialist (8.4, 8.2)

Ellen Miller - NCSU Apparel & Textiles Associate (8.5)

Nita Royal, Co-Chair - Area Specialized Agent in Financial Planning

Education at Triad Money Management Center (8.2)

Claudette Smith - NCA&TSU Family Resource Management Specialist (8.1)

Deborah Taylor - FCE Agent (8.3)

Bob Usry - NCSU Youth Economics Specialist (8.4)

Mike Walden - NCSU Extension Economist (Consumer Ec onomics) (8.2)]

CEMP # 9 - FAMILY AND PARENT EDUCATION

Brief description of CEMP Program focus: The Family & Parent Education Cooperative Extension Major Program is helping parents and families acquire and develop the skills needed to foster qualities of responsibility, cooperation, courage and self-esteem. Appropriate actions are being taken to provide quality information on how to strengthen family relationships through improved parenting skills, financial management, problem-solving skills, empowerment, conflict resolution, effective communication, and stress management. In addition, Extension personnel are equipped to make appropriate referrals for family services, support services, and self-help support groups.

Abstract/Overview of 1998 CEMP 09 Program Accomplishments: Thousands of individuals and families across the state were contacted, taught, mentored, encouraged, and impacted by the combined efforts of 65 county partners working on one or more of the objectives in CEMP 09, Family and Parent Education, during 1998. The many educational efforts initiated and facilitated by County Family and Consumer Educators were immeasurably enhanced by hundreds of volunteers, collaborators, county government representatives, funding partners, state faculty members, and many members of our support staffs. Literally none of our successes are accomplished without a coordinated team effort.

Program content fit within the confines of CEMP 09's four objectives. Individual educational efforts focused heavily on Parent Education, Child Care, and Child Development. In addition, different programs emphasized topics related to overall human development such as stress management, conflict resolution, personal improvement skills, decision-making, personal responsibility, communication skills, and other life skills. Program methodologies were often highly creative and non-traditional, involving diverse audiences including limited resource families, incarcerated parents, as well as cross-cultural groups. Many venues were utilized in disseminating our research-based information related to family and parent education.

The results of the CEMP 09 educational programs conducted throughout the state are quite impressive. Utilizing various evaluation techniques including observational, self-reporting questionnaires, pre-post tests, telephone surveys, one-on-one conversation, purposive sampling, and in some cases extrapolation, the awareness and knowledge levels related to one or more content concepts of 64,222 participants were increased. In addition to learning concepts, 17,567 persons reported adopting practices as a result of Extension programs that would improve their personal or family context, and 7,144 reported learning new skills that would enhance their ability to deal with the challenges of life. According to 7,758 learners, stronger family relationships were perceived as a result of participating in CEMP 09 educational opportunities. An overall improvement in the quality of life was reported by 8,304 program participants.

Objective 1: Participating individuals and families will increase parenting skills related to caring for oneself, understanding ones children, motivating, nurturing and guiding them, and serving as advocates when needed.

Counties(units) reporting accomplishments:

Alamance, Alexander, Alleghany, Anson, Avery, Brunswick, Buncombe, Cabarrus, Caldwell, Chatham, Chowan, Cleveland, Columbus, Currituck, Davidson, Franklin, Gaston, Gates, Granville, Greene, Harnett, Haywood, Henderson, Iredell, Jackson, Lenoir, Lincoln, Madison, Mcdowell, Mecklenburg, Mitchell, Moore, Newhanover, Northampton, Orange, Pasquotank, Pender, Perquimans, Pitt, Randolph, Richmond, Robeson, Rockingham, Rowan, Sampson, Stanly, Stokes, Surry, Union, Warren, Watauga, Wayne, Wilson.

Respective MOPs description and numbers: 21,105 individuals increased awareness and knowledge of developmental stages, basic needs , and appropriate behavior of children. 14,461 individuals increased awareness and knowledge of appropriate discipline strategies. 3,627 individuals adopted appropriate discipline strategies. 8,516 individuals increased awareness and knowledge of techniques to control stress, time, and energy. There was 3,750 adoptions of techniques to control stress, time, and energy.

Respective Impacts description and numbers: 4,289 families demonstrated improved family relationships through the resolution of financial conflicts. 4,333 families demonstrated improved responsibility of parents and children. 5,478 families adopted improved quality of family life by adoption of effective parenting through appropriate discipline techniques and critical nurturing practices.

Volunteers-numbers-hours served-value:

Number: 743

Hours: 3,266

Dollar Value at $ 10/hr: $ 32,660.

A concise narrative to capture all accomplishments for Objective 1: Counties reported offering a variety of educational programs related to parenting and child care including health and stability of the family; fatherhood issues; incarcerated parents; building strong relationships; discipline strategies; communicating with children; developmental stages of children; nutrition education; financial planning; and child safety. These programs were conducted in a variety of ways with diverse target audiences, and frequently in collaboration with other government and community agencies. Listed below is a sampling of programming efforts throughout the state:

JOURNAL ARTICLE -- The Child Development Specialist and two of CEMP 09 county team members were successful in publishing a refereed journal article based on one of the pilot projects conducted last year as a part of our CEMP program:

DeBord, Karen; Roseboro, Jacqueline; and Wicker, Karen (1998). Creative approaches to parenting education. Journal of Extension, 36(5), 6-1 Published electronically on the internet at http://joe.org/joe/1998october/ent.html

ANSON COUNTY -- "Fatherhood: What You Should Know" is a program that Anson County's Cooperative Extension Service developed for Brown Creek Correctional facility. This program strives to increase the parenting skills of Brown Creek's inmates. Information is shared about communication with children, the developmental stages of a child, how to be a nurturing absent parent, and the basic steps to relationships.

Male inmates value this program at $300, but they say that the relationship with their child has no monetary value. Most inmates start the program with no contact with their child. The goal is to encourage inmates to become better parents and focus on their children. The Extension Service hopes that this program will stop criminal activity of participants or of the participants's children in the future.

CHATHAM COUNTY -- The Latino youth entering kindergarten are not as ready to start school as other youth. This is partially due to the language barrier, low educational level of the parents, and lack of familiarity with the school system. For the first two years this program was open to only Latino youth. To make the program more like the kindergarten class experience and to benefit the other youth and parents, the program was opened up to all youth. This gave the program more cultural diversity, but also made it more difficult to manage the language barrier. The program teaches both the parents and the children. Parents learn developmentally appropriate ways to teach their children and help them get ready for kindergarten. The children learn school readiness skills. The program was taught by four school teachers and four teacher assistants. Four of the teaching staff were bilingual. The youth and parents participated in eight two-hour classes with one class per week March-May at Siler City Elementary School. Fifty-three children and 53 parents participated. The children took pre and post tests. The elements evaluated were knowledge of colors; shapes; numbers; body parts; concepts such as big/little, hot/cold, day/night, and happy/sad; matching and sorting; and motor skills such as cutting with scissors and holding a pencil. 89 percent of the children increased their school readiness skills. Post-test scores increased by 31 percent. 100 percent of the parents learned how to better prepare their children for kindergarten. 100 percent read a book to their child during the program. 10 percent had never read a book to their child before being in this program.

UNION COUNTY -- Parenting classes are a need in the county that several agencies have networked to offer. Educational classes, transportation, children's snacks, parental incentives, child care, and educational instruction were provided to 52 parents who were referred by the courts system, DSS, and health department workers. If this preventive education were to prevent or eliminate foster care for 104 children (number involved), that would be a savings of $375 per month per child. For the 43 families involved to be removed from the DSS roles, that would be a savings of $150 per month per family. The economical impact of this supposition would total approximately $48,675 over a five week period. 100 percent of the parents answered "yes" to: "This class has taught me to be a better parent by teaching me to take care of myself, and to understand, teach and protect my child(ren)."

WAYNE COUNTY -- Research shows that children of incarcerated parents have a high rate of incarceration themselves. In an effort to break the cycle, Extension provides six week parenting series for male inmates at Neuse Correctional Center. During the two series held in 1998, 16 inmates completed the six sessions. All participants indicated they learned new knowledge that they would use to change their current parenting practices. One inmate commented "I have a teenager and this class has helped me to answer some problems with talking to her and really listening." Because of the program developed for inmates at Neuse Correctional Center, Extension was asked to present a workshop at the NC Department of Prisons State Conference. 42 Program Supervisors participated. Comments indicated a strong interest in copying the program in their facilities.

Objective 2: Limited resource parents will use effective parenting skills and identify possible solutions to family problems associated with money to promote optimal child development and to reduce stress to improve their ability to face the daily challenges of parenting.

Counties(units) reporting accomplishments: Anson, Buncombe, Catawba, Columbus, Forsyth, Guilford, Lincoln, McDowell, Onslow, Richmond, Robeson, Stokes, Union.

Respective MOPs description and numbers: 858 limited resource parents demonstrated proper application of techniques learned to resolve financial conflicts. 841 limited resource parents increased knowledge and awareness of strategies to resolve family financial conflicts. 2,268 limited resource parents increased knowledge and awareness of child growth and development. 1,376 limited resource parents adopted appropriate discipline techniques and critical nurturing practices.

Respective Impacts description and numbers: 859 families demonstrated improved family relationships through the resolution of financial conflicts. 1,207 families demonstrated improved responsibility of parents and children. 923 families adopted improved quality of family life by adoption of effective parenting through appropriate discipline techniques and critical nurturing practices.

Volunteers-numbers-hours served-value:

Number: 196

Hours: 468

Dollar Value at $ 10/hr: $ 4,680.

A concise narrative to capture all accomplishments for Objective 2: A variety of educational programs were implemented in 13 counties with limited resource clientele including budgeting; teaching children about money; use of children's car seats; alleviating stress; effective discipline; self-esteem, self-control, and responsibility. Some of the programs include:

ANSON COUNTY -- Upon the request of T.I.P.S. (an adolescent parenting program and Anson County's Smart Start), the Cooperative Extension Office implemented "Becoming a Mother: Keeping in Touch With You". This program promotes self-esteem and self-control over life's circumstances. The program meets twice a month to encourage young mothers that they can improve their situation and provide for their children.

All T.I.P.S. participants start the program as welfare dependents. This program helps them to move toward self-sufficiency by increasing participants self-esteem and self-awareness. This support group has been a great success at reducing second pregnancies. The program also covers basic parenting skills and child development.

This program has reduced welfare dependency among participants and has increase parenting skills. It is through this program that participants feel that they can face the daily challenges of parenting.

ROBESON COUNTY -- The past six months 241 limited resource families/individuals were reached by the FCS program. 105 were reached one-to-one and 126 in a group setting. Six families have regained custody of their 12 children. 75 stated that their home life is much better as a result of these classes. They understand their children and have a different outlook on life.

Objective 3: Families and individuals will improve skills in critical thinking, family, conflict resolution, and effective decision making.

Counties(units) reporting accomplishments: Alleghany, Avery, Bladen, Brunswick, Buncombe, Catawba, Columbus, Davie, Harnett, Mecklenburg, Mitchell, Person, Stokes, Union, Wilson.

Respective MOPs description and numbers: 5,025 people increased awareness and knowledge of skills in critical thinking, communicating, leadership, managing finances and managing stress. 843 persons adopted skills in critical thinking, communicating, leadership, managing finances, and managing stress.

Respective Impacts description and numbers: 988 program participants reported improved self-esteem of family members by adopting strategies of affirmation, positive reinforcement, and expression of affection. 896 persons said their quality of family life improved through the adoption of skills such as improved communication, conflict management, and effective decision making. And 1,028 people improved their interpersonal relationships through the adoption of skills in critical thinking, communicating, leadership, managing finances, and managing stress.

Volunteers-numbers-hours served-value:

Number: 172

Hours: 1,224

Dollar Value at $ 10/hr: $ 12,240.

A concise narrative to capture all accomplishments for Objective 3: Counties reported conducting programming in leadership development; children's school readiness; parenting skills; stress reduction; conflict resolution; domestic violence; life skills; effective decision- making; communication skills; building self-esteem; handling problems relating to pressures in daily living; and building strong families. Some of the programs include:

SURRY COUNTY -- Violence within families is more visible at this time in Surry County than ever before--more than 2,000 calls were received by local police regarding domestic violence during the past year. Surry County Extension has led the effort to obtain a shelter facility. A grant from the Governor's Crime Commission for $85,000, a grant/loan from the Surry County Housing Consortium of $50,000/$100,000, along with several smaller local grants have allowed the purchase of a facility. Staff has been hired, training of staff is in progress, items for furnishing home have been collected from the community, and the facility will be open for assistance to violence victims as of January 1, l999.

CATAWBA COUNTY -- Cooperative efforts among Catawba County Schools, Minority Women for Change, Hickory Parks and Recreation, and Extension resulted in workshops to identify issues causing time, financial, and interpersonal relationship stress among families and to introduce coping strategies. Fifty-seven percent of participants demonstrated the ability to design a time management plan; 38 percent identified points of stress and developed plans for dealing with them. One hundred percent of participants reported a greater empathy for other individuals.

Objective 4: Families will become aware of support services and will use them effectively.

Counties(units) reporting accomplishments: Cherokee, Columbus, Harnett, Hertford, Iredell, Lee, Lenoir, Onslow, Orange, Pamlico, Richmond, Rowan, Stanly, Stokes, Watauga.

Respective MOPs description and numbers: 10,185 people increased awareness and knowledge of community services. 1,193 persons increased their ability to communicate with service agencies. 1,821 persons increased their awareness and knowledge of skills such as listening, managing finances, and managing stress. And 576 people adopted skills such as listening, managing finances, and managing stress.

Respective Impacts description and numbers: 1,007 people said they improved their quality of family life through utilization of community services. 992 reported improved self-esteem by implementing suggested strategies for strengthening families. In addition, 630 persons reported improved family relationships through the adoption of skills such as listening, managing finances, and managing stress.

Volunteers-numbers-hours served-value:

Number: 344

Hours: 1,653

Dollar Value at $ 10/hr: $ 16,530.

A concise narrative to capture all accomplishments for Objective 4: Extension educators often serve as a referral system to help families access specific kinds of professional help. Some of our CEMP counties chose this objective as a focus of emphasis, and conducted programs in key issues facing our young people; poor achievement among youth; collaboration among agencies; health services; care-giver services available; survival skills for women; community service exhibitions; advocacy for children and families; healthcare insurance; and others. Examples of Extension's efforts include the following:

IREDELL COUNTY -- "Friends of the Young Child" group works to promote the services of about 40 agencies in Iredell County. We meet once a month to plan events sponsored by the group or share with the group a specific program in an agency. Each agency supports the other as we work with families and promote parenting and children's programs. We have also begun making referrals to each other and have cut out some duplication of services by working on projects together.

ROWAN COUNTY -- Families often do not realize the number of support services available to them. Extension responds to this need by collaborating with other human services agencies to inform Rowan County's families about needed services. Through collaborative efforts with the Department of Social Services, Health Department, Head Start, and other agencies, over 2000 families and individuals have received information about support services and opportunities which will help them meet their families' needs. This has been accomplished through networking meetings, scheduling of events at the local Extension center and dissemination of printed materials. Extension will continue to evaluate impacts of these efforts.

WATAUGA COUNTY -- CES Agent is a member of the Interagency Council in Watauga County which networks with each other to keep informed of the programs available to our consumers. Our county has developed a Community Resource Book, and is part of the High Country's first comprehensive resource and referral system which links people and services together. CES has had numerous displays at the Community Fair, TEAM Nutrition for Children Fair, Hispanic Health Fair, Cancer Awareness Fair, etc., which makes families aware of community resources and support services. Special efforts have been made to refer members of the Hispanic community and the Developmentally Disabled.

CEMP 09 contact persons (co-chairs): Georgia Kight and Wayne Matthews

CEMP 09 Team Members:

Nancy Abasiekong

Jean Baldwin

Sandra Brown

Joyce Boatwright

Lucille Carter

Deborah Crandall

Karen DeBord

Reba Green-Holley

Marilyn Gore

Melissa Hight

Carmen Long

Thearon McKinney

Margo Mosley

Pam Outen

Jackie Roseboro

Claudette Smith

Verlene D Stephenson

Karen Wicker

CEMP # 10 - FOOD AND FOREST PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Food Science

The North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service, Department of Food Science works closely with the North Carolina food industry. The last few years, a major focus has been in the area of regulations. Since the E. coli outbreak in the western part of the United States, the industry has redoubled its effort to produce a safe and secure food supply. Most of the industry is changing or will change to a Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) based safety system. This system has recently been mandated for the seafood industry and by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). There is a proposal to institute HACCP in the juice industry. The National Conference on Interstate Milk Shippers (NCIMS) has appointed a committee to propose a voluntary HACCP program for Grade A Milk products to the next conference. Regulation of other products will follow. More recently the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulated meat and poultry industries have incorporated the process into their inspection program. This means the industry has turned from an inspection-based safety system heavily dependent on regulatory input, to a system now in tune with Total Quality Management. In this new system, the production processes are analyzed for potential hazard(s), controls are identified for the hazard(s), and monitoring of these controls by measurable criteria is affected. Reporting and verification steps keep the system working.

Food Science extension specialists have worked hand-in-hand with other agencies to help small businesses and new food entrepreneurs. Program coordination with the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services' (NCDA & CS) regulatory agencies, their marketing group, the Speciality Foods Association, and the Small Business and Technology Development Centers lends a hand to these individuals.

Wood and Paper Science

The North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service, Department of Wood and Paper Science works to increase the competitiveness and profitability of North Carolina's forest products industry, improve markets, and increase consumer understanding of forest products and their proper use. The continued long-term expansion of the state's primary and secondary wood products industries not only depends on the national and international economy, but on the individual firm's abilities to compete by obtaining and efficiently using raw materials and utilizing existing and new technology. Wood Products Extension concentrates its efforts on providing educational opportunities for managers and key personnel of primary and secondary wood products firms and the consumers of wood products. These opportunities allow clientele to develop their knowledge and skills to further their effectiveness in the assembly, processing, distribution, and use of wood products. The forest products industry modernization will increase their competitiveness in our growing international economy.

UNITS REPORTING ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Department of Food Science Extension Specialists: Dan Carroll, Pat Curtis, David Green, Kevin Keener, Barry Nash, Dwain Pilkington, John Rushing, Lynn Turner, Donn Ward

Department of Wood and Paper Science Extension Specialists: Joe Denig, Craig Forbes, Larry Jahn, Phil Mitchell

Martin County Extension Center: Jim Kea

STATEWIDE MEASURES OF PROGRESS TOTALS

Objective 1: Food processors will adopt new technology, hire and train qualified personnel, and develop in-house quality systems to ensure regulatory compliance along with sustained growth and profitability.

Increased participation in training

Number participating: 700

Number increasing understanding: 700

Objective 2: (A) Forest products manufacturers will increase their competitiveness, productivity, profitability, and utilization of innovative technology, and (B) North Carolina citizens will increase their knowledge of wood products, their proper application, and maintenance.

Adoption of new manufacturing techniques

Number of firms adopting: 88

Consumer adoption of practices related to selection, use, and maintenance of wood products

Number adopting: 130

Increased knowledge of economic importance of the wood products industry

Number increasing knowledge: 400

Increased consumer understanding of forest products and their proper use

Number increasing understanding: 402

Objective 3: New and potential entrepreneurs especially in the food and forest products manufacturing areas will benefit from programs in business setup, management, quality, technology, and regulations by entry into the marketplace showing sustained growth and profitability.

Requests for assistance from small business and entrepreneurs

Number: 220 (in foods)

Number of new companies in food and forest products manufacturing

Number: 25 (in foods)

STATEWIDE IMPACT TOTALS

Objective 1: Food processors will adopt new technology, hire and train qualified personnel, and develop in-house quality systems to ensure regulatory compliance along with sustained growth and profitability.

Processors in the area of fruits and vegetables, dairy products, poultry, seafood, and meat and meat products are rapidly adapting new quality systems based on HACCP to improve quality and safety to meet regulatory requirements and increase profits.

Objective 2: (A) Forest products manufacturers will increase their competitiveness, productivity, profitability, and utilization of innovative technology, and (B) North Carolina citizens will increase their knowledge of wood products, their proper application, and maintenance.

Dollars saved through improved utilization or productivity

Dollars: $1,070,000

Dollars saved through improved yield, efficiency, productivity, and marketing

Dollars: $1,220,000

Objective 3: New and potential entrepreneurs especially in the food and forest products manufacturing areas will benefit from programs in business setup, management, quality, technology, and regulations by entry into the marketplace showing sustained growth and profitability.

Increase in number of small businesses in food and forestry manufacturing

Number: 25 (in foods)

NARRATIVE PROGRAM PROGRESS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Food Science

Specialists in the Department of Food Science have taken an active role in preparing the food processing industry for the advent of new HACCP based regulations. With the new seafood rules from FDA and the USDA Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) Pathogen Reduction final rule for red meat and poultry, food processors are turning to training to learn how to comply. Seafood processors and large meat poultry processors were required to comply in January 1998. Currently, the medium-sized plants are being readied for implementation. Food Science specialists have been conducting training throughout the state, nationally, and internationally.

A Seafood HACCP Training Curriculum has been developed that is recognized by the FDA as the national model. The development committee was chaired by a NC State Food Science Specialist. North Carolina processors and regulatory specialists have been trained. Currently, the training is being reassessed and some plans are being readied for "encore" training to increase the levels of adoption and compliance.

The Red Meat and Poultry extension activities included training programs to ensure regulatory compliance in implementation of the Sanitation Standard Operating Procedure (SSOP) portion of The Pathogen Reduction Act of 1996. In the poultry area, a food science specialist serves as an instructor in state and national HACCP workshops. In addition, specialists trained large processors for compliance required in January 1998 and in 1999 for medium-sized processors.

Assistance was given to over 220 businesses involved in food processing. At least 25 new companies were assisted during startup.

In addition to working with established processors, Food Science Extension has worked with entrepreneurs and small business owners who are establishing new products for the market. When regulatory agencies or small business centers are approached by these persons, they recommend the person obtain guidance from Food Science Extension. There they receive assistance in formulation, processing, safety, and labeling. Their product is tested for shelf stability. The entrepreneur is then directed to the appropriate regulatory agency and to marketing and small business assistance.

Wood and Paper Science

The mission of Wood Products Extension within the Department of Wood and Paper Science is to increase the competitiveness and profitability of North Carolina's forest products industry, improve markets, and increase consumer understanding of forest products and their proper use. Wood Products Extension concentrates its efforts on providing educational opportunities for managers and key personnel of primary and secondary wood products firms and the consumers of wood products. Faculty conducted, organized or participated in numerous workshops, conferences, seminars, short courses, and classes for forest industry and consumer audiences. Sample topics included wood drying, quality control, rough mill processing, marketing, wood preservation, and proper uses of wood products. These efforts reached an estimated 1,132 individuals. Major events are listed below.

Conducted, organized, and taught at the following events:

Profiting from Improved Practices in Furniture Manufacturing Workshop, Hickory

Hardwood Lumber Grading Short Course, Raleigh

Hardwood Plywood Manufacturing: Quality Control for Increased Profits

Short Course, Raleigh

Southeastern Dry Kiln Club Spring Meeting, Lynchburg, VA

Advanced Dry Kiln Operators Short Course, Hickory

Basic Home Construction Workshop, Raleigh

In-House Lumber Quality Control Workshop, Dudley

In-House Hardwood Lumber Management Quality Control Workshop, Dudley

Basic Dry Kiln Operators Short Course, Clyde

CNC Router Technology Workshop, Raleigh

What You Should Know About Wood Products Agent Training, Raleigh

Southeastern Dry Kiln Club Fall Meeting, Marion, VA

Presentations at the following events:

Wood Technology Clinic and Show, Portland, OR

Parks and Recreation Maintenance School, Wheeling, WV

RMA Agricultural Lending Conference, Raleigh

New Zealand Forest Industry Engineering Association Seminar Series, Rotoura, New Zealand and Melbourne and Sydney, Australia

Oregon State University's Plywood Manufacturing Short Course, Corvallis, OR

Small Scale Forestry in the Urban-Rural Interface Field Day, Raleigh

Hardwood Plywood and Veneer Association Spring Meeting, Ottawa, Canada

Forest Products Society Annual Meeting, Merida, Mexico

Carnage Middle School Career Day, Raleigh

Alamance-Burlington School System Career Fair, Burlington

National Extension Natural Resources Conference, Deerwood, MN

Pesticide Certification School, Raleigh

Anson County Rotary Club, Wadesboro

New South Wales Forest Products Association Annual Meeting, Sydney, Australia

Helping producers and buyers in solving problems or answering their questions associated with the production and use of wood products is also an important activity. Many of these problems and questions require extensive time in gathering the information needed by an agent, industry or final consumer. Faculty handled 207 requests of this type in 1998.

Martin County Center

ProLogger, which focuses on continuing education requirements for North Carolina's loggers, is designed to improve logger safety, environmental concerns, and business management within one year. Those who complete the required 24 credit hours of training will receive the Professional Logger designation and a diploma. Approximately 55 local firms have participated in this training. Organizations involved in the training included the North Carolina Forestry Association, the Cooperative Extension Service, the North Carolina Division of Forest Resources, the Society of Consulting Foresters, the American Pulpwood Association, and insurance carriers and equipment vendors for the forest products industry.

SUCCESS STORIES

Food Science

Shell Egg Rapid Cooling

Issue: As consumers become more aware of food-safety issues, producers are challenged to find new ways of ensuring that their food products are the safest, highest quality that money can buy. Cooling shell eggs after they are hatched is one way to ensure quality and a longer shelf life. But with traditional refrigeration methods, it can take seven to 10 days to reduce the internal temperature of eggs to 45 degrees, the optimal temperature required by the USDA.

What has been done: Researchers at NC State University have developed a system for cooling eggs cryogenically that will dramatically reduce the time for cooling eggs. In this new system, eggs will pass through a 15-foot cooler filled with carbon dioxide gas at a constant temperature of minus 60 degrees Fahrenheit, after being graded, washed, and placed in cartons. This process will reduce the cooling time for shell eggs from days to a matter of minutes.

Impact: By rapidly cooling eggs, producers can further reduce consumers' risk of contracting salmonella enteridis from eggs. In addition, this process will increase the shelf life of eggs from eight weeks to 10 weeks, increase opportunities for exporting eggs and reduce producers' refrigeration costs, while enhancing the overall quality of shell eggs. The unit is expected to be commercially available this summer.

Hazard Analysis and Critical Control (HACCP)

Food Science extension faculty have taken a leadership role nationally, in providing HACCP training programs to various segments of the food processing industry (poultry, meat, seafood, dairy, etc.). In 1998, 20 programs were conducted with over 500 participants in an intensive three-day format. HACCP has been mandated by USDA for meat and poultry processors, and by FDA for seafoods. Implementation of HACCP is proving to be complex, thus it is vital to the industry, and ultimately consumers, that food processors receive training from extension professionals competent in HACCP and the sciences associated with food safety.

Wood and Paper Science

There is a great need to increase the competitiveness and profitability of North Carolina's forest products industry and to increase consumer understanding of forest products and their proper use. To meet this need, extension specialists within the Department of Wood and Paper Science are actively involved in providing educational and technical assistance to North Carolina forest product manufacturers and consumers of wood products. The following examples are indicative of the many impacts accruing as a result of useful educational opportunities being provided in a timely and inclusive manner to industry and consumers of wood products.

A sawmill operation established monitoring procedures to identify losses. By instituting these procedures, this mill has reported annual savings of $950,000.

"Profiting from Improved Practices in Furniture Manufacturing" was held in cooperation with the Furniture Technology Center at Catawba Valley Community College in Hickory. This was a series of seven weekly workshops conducted by Wood Products Extension faculty. The workshops emphasized practical techniques concerning lumber yard practices, lumber drying, rough mill cut-up, wood machining, wood shrinkage and movement, gluing of panels and veneers, and waste minimization. Comments on the workshops were excellent. One participant's evaluation summed it up best by stating, "You guys did an outstanding job."

A lumber quality control workshop for a major sawmill manufacturer. The participants rated the workshop 9.1 (scale 1-10, with 10 being extremely valuable). Most importantly, the participants averaged scoring 33% better on the post-test versus the pre-test. The manager of organization development and training for this company commented, "this is a definite reflection on the instructor's teaching style and his ability to reach the people."

A specialist participated as a speaker at the Parks and Recreation Maintenance Management School in Wheeling, WV. A pre-test and post-test comparison of the speaker's topic importance to current job were performed. Among 14 different topics, the percentage increase between the post-test and the pre-test ranged from 26% to -2%. The extension specialist's topics were rated first (26%) and third (23%).

During the last several years, 17,000 copies of a publication entitled A Comparison of Floor Joist Spans were distributed. This publication was produced by Wood Products Extension to minimize confusion caused by new lumber design values. To evaluate its effectiveness a survey was mailed to individuals requesting the publication (building code officials, builders, engineers, architects, building inspectors, building material dealers). The response rate to the survey was 63%. The overall average rating of this publication as to how good it was is 4.56 (1=poor; 5=excellent). Average ratings (1=not at all; 10=a great deal) for three additional questions indicate its effectiveness: Did the publication increase your knowledge of floor joist spans? (7.11); Were you able to use this knowledge to solve problems? (7.69); Were you or others able to benefit by using this publication? (8.14)

A sawmill changed their material flow in the production process. Due to this production process change, this mill has reported annual savings of $220,000.

Martin County Center

The 1997 Carolina Log'n Demo had 3,500 attendees who had the opportunity to view state-of-the-art harvesting and transportation equipment. Since the show, 12 portable scales have been purchased by loggers in the Martin County area. The purchase of the scales has resulted in saving loggers an extra trip per day by correctly loading their trucks to the legal limit. Estimated amount savings for these loggers are $120,000.

ProLogger, which focuses on continuing education requirements for North Carolina's loggers, is designed to improve logger safety, environmental concerns, and business management within one year. This program continues to reduce injuries and keep fatalities in the range of three to seven per year. Savings for 1998 due to reduced workers compensation are estimated at $1,000,000.

TEAM MEMBERS

Tom Campbell John Rushing, Co-Chair

Larry Jahn, Co-Chair Donn Ward

Jim Kea

CEMP # 11 - FOOD SAFETY AND QUALITY

1. A very brief Program Description

The food safety and quality CEMP focuses on increasing knowledge and encouraging the adoption of safe food handling practices of food service workers, consumers, youth and other diverse audiences

2. An abstract/overview of your entire 1998 CEMP program accomplishments in a Narrative format not to exceed one-half page single spaced. (please write this as if it was a total stand alone document)

County offices throughout North Carolina delivered a variety of food safety programs, (safe food handling, hygiene, food preservation, food service, master food preserver, sanitation, youth cooking classes, etc.) to diverse audiences (children, high school students, adults, senior citizens, Work First clients, child care providers, garden and civic clubs, Extension Homemaker Clubs, Meals on Wheels volunteers, college students, limited resources families, etc.). A growing number of agents are partnering with others (Departments of Aging, schools, Environmental Health, universities, community colleges, etc.) to provide various programs. In addition, state specialists have provided assistance on a wide array of food safety related issues to a variety of audiences. The topics have ranged from food processing to biotechnology. The food processing industries (poultry, meat and eggs; dairy, seafood, fruits and vegetables, etc.) have been inundated with new regulations related to food safety. Specialists in cooperation with various commodity and processing associations have spent a great deal of time trying to assist industry in meeting these new challenges.

4. Number of Units reporting accomplishments: 53

5. Statewide Measures of Progress totals:

1. 19,726 Consumers increased knowledge about safe food handling.

1. 15,471 Consumers improved their attitude about need to handle food safely.

1. 2,571 Food service workers increased their knowledge about safe food handling.
2. 2,338 Food service workers improved their attitudes about the need to handle food safely.

6. Statewide Impacts totals:

1. 10,640 Consumers adopted safe food handling practices. Adoption of these practices has the potential to reduce the incidence of foodborne illness in homes.

1. 2,410 Food service workers adopted safe food handling practices.

7. Volunteers involved and value:

820 volunteered for a total of 4,449 hours. Based on a $10/hour rate, the value of the volunteers' time is $44,990.

8. A few Success Stories that indicate real program impacts:

Consumers Education Success Story Example: The Lincoln County Housing Authority has had problems with their tenants keeping their homes clean; the kitchens and lack of sanitation practices with food storage and handling have been major problems with young mothers and their children. Nineteen different families attended sessions and learned techniques for cleaning, food storage, and safe food preparation practices. The families are now helping each other in cleaning and practicing safe food handling practices. They are keeping records of their accomplishments, and sharing this with the Housing Authority.

Home Food Preservation Success Story Example: Several of the young homemakers in Caswell County were concerned about the methods they were using to preserve food for their families. As a result we formed a "Pantry Club" which met six times in late summer and early fall 1998. Sixteen homemakers and their teenage children attended classes on canning, freezing, preserving, and drying foods. All who attended reported they had gained knowledge which they were putting into practice. Two have purchased pressure canners which they now use instead of canning vegetables using the boiling water bath method. The group will begin meeting again in the spring of 1999 for additional lessons on food safety and storage.

Food Service Employee Training Success Story Example: Through collaboration with the local health department environmental health specialists, school food service director and a group of restaurant owners and managers, a "Round Robin" series of lessons was developed to help train food service employees. Lessons were taken to the restaurants (per the restaurants' request). Forty seven food service employees participated. Feed back from employees showed the classes addressed information and techniques that will help them be safer food handlers.

Food Service Mangers Training Success Story Example: There is an increased need to offer food safety training for foodservice managers and employees. A regional SERV SAFE certification course was held in the Northeast District. Of the 17 attending the training, 15 received certification from the National Restaurant Association. The SERV SAFE certification is the third course offered through the NC Cooperative Extension Service, Hertford and Pasquotank County Centers and the Pasquotank, Perquimmans Chowan and Camden Health Dept. Five other volunteers were involved in the training. Since October 1997, 49 participants have attended SERV SAFE training with 41 participants receiving certification. It is estimated that by going through SERV SAFE course and applying the information a foodborne illness outbreak could be prevented. According to NRA, $75,000 is the average cost to a restaurant after an outbreak. To date, the value to target audience of 41 receiving SERV SAFE certification is equal to $3,075,000. Certification will continue.

Master Food Preserver Success Story Example: Food Safety covers many areas and Buncombe County has many citizens who are very interested in preserving their own food and preserving it safely. A Master Food Preserver class was offered with twenty five hours of instruction, take home study guides, a notebook, and hands on workshops in canning, freezing, pickling, soft spreads and drying. Twelve students graduated at the end of June with written commitment to give back volunteer time by working in the Extension Office, giving food preservation classes in other communities and working at the Mountain State Fair. All of the new Master Food Preservers reported at the last class they have changed their attitudes about the importance of food safety and increased their knowledge in all areas of food preservation.

Natural Disaster Response Success Story Example: The tornado in March '98 left 1000's of residents in the western part of the county without electricity. The Rockingham County office of the Cooperative Extension Service (CES) responded immediately to this emergency situation. Information sheets on what to do after a power outage were distributed to all the local radio stations and newspapers as well as the County Manager's Office, Red Cross Shelters and Health Department. Our office was inundated with telephone calls from residents wanting to know if food was safe to eat. In most instances the answer was no. It is difficult to estimate how many instances of foodborne illness were avoided by providing this information. The Virginia CES estimates a cost of $942 per case of foodborne illness per year. 100 instances of foodborne illness were avoided, or a savings or $94,200.

Senior Citizens Success Story Example: Twenty-one seniors at a congregate nutrition site in Pasquotank County participated in a Target Food Safety Training. The average age of the seniors was 72 years old. The seniors participated in eight lessons that were part of the Food Safety Pilot program. While about half of the seniors could not read they all stated an increased knowledge of food safety. As a result, 80 percent of the seniors said they would try to store food in smaller containers, refrigerate food promptly and discard old food.

Youth Success Story Example: With 70-85 percent of North Carolina mothers in the workforce, children are forced to prepare their own meals and snacks from time to time. In order to help these children learn to be safe in the kitchen, as well as handle food safely to prevent foodborne illness, Cooperative Extension provided food preparation workshops for 193 children. Through hands on participation, the children gained a greater appreciation for keeping hands, utensils, etc. clean during food preparation. They also reported becoming more aware of dangerous practices which could cause an accident in the kitchen. J&S Cafeterias and the Triad Area Chefs Federation provided funding for the "Chef and the Child" series in the amount of approximately $1000 and 3 area Chefs helped lead the classes. One youngster commented, "I like how we measured flour, cleaning our hands before you handle food and I liked working with Chef Jeff and Chef John."

Biotechnology Success Story Example: The products of biotechnology have been widely accepted by American farmers. However, there are a number of important issues and questions about public perceptions and consumer acceptance of foods developed through biotechnology. Based on his original research over the past decade, Dr. Thomas Hoban, Extension Sociologist, has become the internationally- recognized expert on this subject. Through his proactive and integrated Extension programs, he has provided information and advice to a number of important clientele groups from the public and private sectors. He also has been interviewed extensively by print and broadcast media from around the world. During each of the last eight years, he has been invited to give between 50 and 75 presentations to a variety of audiences in the US, Canada, and elsewhere. Dr. Hoban's research and Extension programs have had a significant impact on public policies, as well as private sector product development and marketing efforts. By promoting the acceptance of biotechnology, his work will ultimately lead to a greater competitiveness for American agriculture, as well as enhanced food safety and nutrition for consumers around the world.

Co-chairs: Pat Curtis & Sandra Woodard

Ken Anderson

Cynthia Brown

Dan Carroll

Gary Davis*

Angela Fraser*

Suzette Goldmon

David Green

Tom Hoban*

Brinton Hopkins

Kevin Keener

Barbara Kirby

Carolyn Lackey

Carol Mitchell

Barry Nash

Mitch Owen

Alice Pettitt*

John Rushing

Brian Sheldon

Christine Smith

Melissa Taylor*

Lillie Tunstall

Lynn Turner*

Bob Usry

Donn Ward

Steve Washburn

(*Subcommittee Co-Chair)

CEMP # 12 - HEALTH AND HUMAN SAFETY

Program Description: Health and human safety are pressing public concerns at the individual, family and community levels. NCCES develops community-based programs to enable individuals and communities to address health and safety needs including 1) healthy lifestyles, 2) home safety and crime prevention, 3) agricultural health and safety, and 4) community capacity building.

Program Overview: Through the implementation of research-based educational programs, more than 26,000 Extension customers have improved their quality of life related to health and human safety issues. Among these improved lifestyle habits include better diet, exercise, as well as improved safety in the home. About 850 customers removed safety hazards in their homes such as emoving throw rugs and eliminating raised door thresholds. Sixteen hundred customers learned how to use of health care services and facilities in a more appropriate manner.

On the farm, families and workers increased their awareness of chemical exposure and other health risks. Such changes not only increase farm profits but promote a better quality of life in agriculture. More than 400 medical personnel were educated concerning agricultural related illnesses and injuries. Such educational efforts are certain to further reduce the potential for accidents due to a better understanding by health service providers. In 1998, it was estimated that more than $897,000 was saved due to the reduced need for medical attention. The adoption of practices for better handling and storage of pesticides resulted in about $400,000 in potential savings for Extension customers.

Extension is making a difference to improve the quality of life by providing effective information concerning health and human safety issues.

Units Reporting:

Objective 1 (21) Objective 3 (13)

Objective 2 (13) Objective 4 (5)

Measures of Progress:

Objective 1 - 26,119 participants increased their awareness and knowledge of preventative health behaviors such as eating properly, exercise, and safety in the home. 11,462 participants adopted recommended health care practices such as dietary intake.

Objective 2 - 1,260 individuals adopted practices to remove safety hazards in the home and 857 adopted practices to increase home safety. 1,190 individuals adopted preventive measures including installing ventilation systems, radon, and carbon monoxide tests.

Objective 3 - 2561 participants were reported to have increased their awareness of agricultural (chemical) exposure and other agriculturally related health risks. 2,255 participants increased their awareness and use of personal protective equipment.

Objective 4 - 26 strategic partnerships/coalitions have been formed for improving health statuses. 19 new on-going systems were established to monitor health status and needs on the local level.

Impact Totals:

Objective 1 - As a result of educational program, approximately $1.6 million in costs have been avoided by program participants in such as as reduced high risk behavior and preventative health behaviors.

Objective 2 - Through that adoption of practices such as reduced accidents inthe home and the reduction of pollutants and improved indoor environment, $ 84,150 in cost avoided have been determined.

Objective 3 - It was determined that $682,800 was avoided in costs through reduced agricultural illnesses and injuries.

Objective 4 - It has been estimated that more than $5000 in costs have been avoided due to the improved health status of Extension customers.

Volunteers Involved: In the 47 counties reporting impacts, it is estimated that 1679 volunteers contributed 13,334 hours to local programs impacting on health and human safety. The dollar value of these contributions is estimated at $133,340.

Success Stories:

While the use of pesticides is necessary in crop and livestock management, some of these chemicals can harm humans. Thus, proper laundering of pesticide-soiled clothing is important to protect the applicator, person doing the laundry, and the entire family from pesticide residues. Many consumers are not aware first, of the need for proper care and second, the proper procedures. To address this void, Susan Noble, Family and Consumer Science Agent in Robeson County, worked with Charlie Lowery, Extension Horticulture Agent to present information on handling pesticide-soiled clothing to participants in pesticide license re/certification classes. Thus far in 1998, 117 participants have been made aware of the need to properly handle pesticide-soiled clothing. Of these, 40% indicated (via survey) they will share the specific how-to information with the person doing the family laundry. Two more classes are scheduled in the fall.

Statistics show that Hertford County citizens are at risk for health problems. The Hertford Partners for Health is a collaborative community health partnership to address compelling health needs of Hertford County residents. The partnership was formed in 1995 to oversee the REACH Community Health Assessment Project Grant received by Roanoke-Chowan Hospital and coordinated by Dept. of Family Medicine at ECU School of Medicine. The partnership has received Healthy Carolinian Certification, received Duke Endowment Funding and opened an Adolescent Health Center for 1052 Hertford County Middle School Students. 500 Community health surveys were completed and three priority areas for improvement identified: health care access, substance abuse, and nutrition. Progress toward addressing critical health needs and improving health status for county citizens is being realized through Hertford County Partners For Health.

In response to multiple farm-related deaths within Rutherford County, a "Farm Safety Workshop" targeted at 15-16 year-old Vocational Agriculture students from four area High Schools (Rutherford & Polk counties) was implemented. Participants learned about pesticide, electrical, ATV, tractor rollover, chainsaw and PTO safety measures, along with First Aid information. Among the 233 student participants, 87% have begun to implement at least one technique learned from the training. Local agribusinesses assisted in sponsoring the event, and Extension Agents from Polk, McDowell, Henderson, and Buncombe counties were involved in with the program delivery.

Overall Narrative: Health and human safety are pressing public concerns at the individual, family and community levels. The Extension Service has developed community-based programs to enable individuals and communities to address health and safety needs in the areas of healthy lifestyles, home safety and crime prevention, agricultural health and safety, and community capacity building.

A sample of statewide program impacts include:

Over 26,119 participants increased their awareness and knowledge of preventative health behaviors such as eating properly, exercise, and safety in the home. 11,462 participants adopted recommended health care practices such as dietary intake. It has been estimated that almost $1,610,782 in costs have been avoided due to Extension efforts.

2,561 individuals adopted practices to remove safety hazards in the home and 857 adopted practices to increase home safety. 2,255 individuals adopted preventative measures including installing ventilation systems, radon, and carbon monoxide tests.

2490 participants were reported to have increased awareness of agricultural (chemical) exposure and other agriculturally related health risks. 2068 participants increased their awareness and use of personal protective equipment.

Twenty-six strategic partnerships/coalitions have been formed for improving health statuses.

CEMP 12 Committee Members

Sarah Kirby - Co Chair Mitch Smith - Co Chair

Judy Mock Donna Mull

Sharon Rowland Barbara Garland

Steve Lilley Donna Edsel

Gwyn Riddick Sarah Kirby

Wilma Hammett Sandy Wiggins

Margaret Bullock Julia Storm

CEMP # 13 - LEADERSHIP AND VOLUNTEER DEVELOPMENT

Program Description:

Leadership and volunteer Development are unique in that this focus applies to all Extension education programs. Each program has the potential for developing leadership competencies as well as volunteer development. Leadership and volunteer development provides benefits to the individual as well as the local county staff. It gives staff members a base from which to extend their on-going programs and involve new leaders in existing leadership and volunteer systems in the organization.

Leadership development builds the capacity of individuals, groups and organizations to address issues in a community. Volunteer development enhances the potential for beneficial community service. Leadership and volunteer development are separate disciplines with unique purposes and methodologies, but they share a common focus that deals with human capacity building for the public good. It is this common focus that the Leadership and Volunteer Development State Major Program addresses.

Abstract:

The goal of the Leadership and Volunteer Development Cooperative Extension Major Program is to build the capacity of individuals, community groups and organizations for involvement in their community for the public good. The results reported by counties in this major program for 1998 indicate that educational experiences offered to the public have helped achieve this goal.

Volunteer leaders, through training programs and role assignments were prepared to involve others in accomplishing goals. Reports show many volunteers being trained as volunteer managers in Master Gardener programs, 4-H, Extension Homemakers and the Advisory Leadership System. Limited resource, non-traditional (7354) and traditional participants (65441) were taught leadership skills that helped some grow as individuals while others flourished as active members in groups. Individually and as groups the trained leaders are working to improve various aspects of their communities. Program participants (7920) also learned to analyze issues and determine the impact of these issues on their lives and the lives of others. This knowledge served as the major impetus for their participation in public forums, on community boards and committees. These individuals have also facilitated discussions on issues, helped generate solutions and develop and activate plans to resolve issues. Their actions resulted in citizens/leaders addressing 244 issues and 681 problems being resolved or projects completed by limited resource/non-traditional leaders.

Number of Units Reporting Accomplishments

Objective 1:35, Objective 2:59, Objective 3:35

Statewide Measures of Progress Totals

Objective 1:

Number of participants who increased knowledge and awareness of leadership skills: 7354

Number of participants who adopted sound leadership and decision-making practices: 3689

Number of participants who demonstrated proper application of leadership skills and problem solving techniques learned: 3108

Number of participants who identified community problems: 3433

Number of participants who developed and implemented action plans to resolve problems:2058

Number of projects completed/problems resolved: 618

Objective 2:

Increased knowledge of opportunities for volunteers to contribute: 19222

Adoption of volunteer management system practices: 6758

Number of volunteer management systems established: 702

Objective 3:

Number of persons who demonstrated improved leadership and problem solving skills: 65441

Number of persons who demonstrated acquired/improved facilitation knowledge and skills: 4045

Number of persons who participated in a community collaborative problem solving process: 4487

Number of persons who participated in community/public process as a result of leadership training: 2585

Number of community issues addressed (in progress): 224

Statewide Impacts totals

Objective 1:

Increase in the number of limited resource and non-traditional individuals with the capacity to provide valuable service to the community (assume some leadership roles in church, school, community etc., volunteer): 2731

Dollars saved by increased involvement in addressing community concerns by limited resource and non-traditional leaders: $323370

Dollars of economic value to community/county for community projects/solving problems: $1049187

Community organizations developed to continue resolving community problems: 86

Objective 2:

Empowerment of volunteer systems: 789

Economic value of volunteer intervention: $1739256

@$10 per hour

Objective 3:

Costs avoided through the resolution of (a) community(s) :$280,500

Dollars saved as a result of achieving successful resolution of a (a) community issue (s): $237,400

7. Volunteers involved and value

Objective 1

Number of Volunteers: 2701

Hours: 25223

Dollar Value at $10/hr: $252230

Objective 2

Number of Volunteers: 15055

Hours: 160322

Dollar Value at $10/hr: $1578220

Objective 3

Number of Volunteers: 3378

Dollar Value at $10/hr.: $314,710

Success Stories:

Henderson: The North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service in Henderson County works closely with the Henderson County Community Development Council. Litter along roadsides is an eyesore in the county. Litter reduction was identified as an issue that the Council wanted to address. Seven community development clubs participated in litter reduction and cleaned 126 miles of roadside and picked up 338 bags of trash. Sixty-one volunteers participated for a total of 248 hours. In addition to improved appearance of roadsides, there is an increased awareness and concern for our environment generated by these volunteer efforts.

Cherokee Reservation: Limited resource and other non-traditional participants in public decision making will identify, investigate and resolve problems in their community and county that impact the well-being of self and family. The Community Club Council identified the trash on the reservation as a problem. During this time, 128 limited resource volunteers and 258 youth helped clean up trash. A two-day clean up was held on the reservation. Over 52 miles of roadside was cleaned with 142 bags of recyclable and 535 bags of trash were collected. This would have cost the tribe over $4,000.00 in Tribal levy.

Madison: The need for public exercise facilities has been identified by several communities during some phase of Environmental Scanning, including Community Voices leadership training in 1997. A $14,000.00 grant was awarded and used to construct 3 walking trails about mile in length in 3 isolated rural communities. Additional funds are being sought to complete a fourth trail. Data from previously reported community leadership development activities was used to provide the impetus for the securing the $14,000.00 grant from Mission Hospital Foundation to the Madison Co. Health Consortium. These trails will provide citizens with a safer place to walk for exercise and support other extension programs, such as "Fit for Life". This is a collaborative effort with Extension and the Hot Springs Health Program and Madison County Recreation Department.

Wake Co: Janie Watkins has been living in Wake Forest for several years now. She is busy daily caring for the elderly and less fortunate people in her community. Although her plate was already full she accepted the challenge of taking part in the Community Voices leadership training program as a co-facilitator. Janie did not view herself as a leader at first; however; she accepted the role of co-facilitator. Janie did not view herself as a leader at first, however, she accepted the role of co-facilitator and helped identify issues and community needs and helped parents begin action plans to solve the problems they identified. She has also participated in the Wake County Wide-Awake Forum and is currently working on an action plan to address issues such as affordable housing, teen pregnancy, affordable childcare, substance abuse prevention, after school tutorial programs, etc. Since completing Community Voices, Janie has been asked to facilitate workshops for NC Equity Leadership to train young mothers in leadership skills.

Wake: One of the communities targeted for The Community Voices Leadership training in Wake County was South Park, which is located in inner city Raleigh. This group of Community Voices graduates now called "South Park Outreach" recruited two young women to participate in a GED Program. One of the ladies is now a mother and better equipped to handle the role of motherhood as a result of the support system and parenting resources made available to her from this group formed as a result of the Community Voices training program provided by Wake County Cooperative Extension. One of the community leaders and graduates of Community Voices who has helped provide a great deal of outreach assistance to the women is blind.

Catawba County: Catawba elected officials participated in three Emerging Issues Forums this past year. The topics were determined by a steering committee of elected officials working in collaboration with the Cooperative Extension Service and the Institute of Government in Chapel Hill. Evaluation by steering committee members indicated the forums provided the officials an opportunity to gain a greater understanding of the emerging issues from experts in the local setting. Many of the officials found their experience especially noteworthy, for they are unable to attend meetings out of the county. Attendees also credit the forums with providing an opportunity for increased communication and networking among the different elected official groups resulting in more opportunities to work together on the issues.

Green County: Twenty-five Greene County citizens have come together to work collaboratively on a strategic plan for this rural county. They have identified economic development, citizen involvement and human health and safety as major goals, completed their action plans and are presently implementing those plans. Committee members expressed great satisfaction with the outcome of the collaboration. Six of the members also improved their facilitation skills. The assistance of the Cooperative Extension Service also saved the county $1500 in developing the plan.

Gaston County: The Cooperative Extension worked with 11 members of the County Wellhead Protection Implementation Committee appointed by the Board of County Commissioners. The members collected information regarding wellhead protection programs, local ordinances and programs and local options. Through the use of various decision-making tools, the group reached a consensus on a program for Gaston County. The detailed program was presented to the Board of County Commissioners and adopted. The program will coordinate services between county departments, educate businesses and residents on the risk and liability of polluting ground water that supplies community wells. This will become the first wellhead protections program for community wells in Gaston County.

Currituck County: Currituck County has trained volunteers to establish a private, non-profit foundation for the Library. The library board has begun the application process for incorporation and establishing a 501-© 3 entity. This foundation will permit the library to establish endowments and accept funds for library improvements from the private sector.

Gaston County: In Gaston county an Extension Marketing Committee appointed by the Advisory Council developed an "On the Road" program to take to the County Board of Commissioners and to the 14 municipalities. Volunteers recruited participants for each meeting, developed a slide presentation and presented the information.

Franklin County: Franklin County is beginning to see results from several years of leader training, staff involvement and a mix of new and experienced members on the Advisory Council. After struggling and requesting for several years to get an addition or new facility for extension programming, the council leadership developed the idea, constructed the format and delivered a proclamation from council members to fund this request. As a result, upon the adoption of the budget in July, there should be funding for architect drawings.

Surry County: In Surry County, a Master Gardener has been managing the Master Gardener program activities. These have included five group demonstrations, two displays at area malls, soil testing demonstrations at area discount stores, ten individual demonstrations, two field trips and answering the telephone.

Union County: Union county has established a 4-H Foundation to give leadership to an ambitious fund drive. The Board just received a charter from North Carolina recognizing it as a non-profit foundation.

Burke County: Burke County's Advisory council in partnership with 4-H'ers and volunteer leaders has purchased a van with cooperation from county government.

Robeson County:As a follow-up to Community Voices programming that was held in Maxton two years ago, 14 individuals sought assistance from Extension for refresher training and assistance in developing plans to address sub-standard housing problems in a low income area of town. Twelve of these participants completed the refresher course. Two individuals involved themselves in the housing issue and with their leadership were able to secure donate materials and volunteer labor to complete almost $5,000 worth of improvements to 2 houses. As a result of their actions, several individuals within this community are beginning action. Another individual became a volunteer community park clean up project.

New Hanover: In New Hanover County the Advisory Leadership Systems and Arboretum foundation provided a background of political and economic support to leverage the message and philosophy of existing county programs to facilitate the purchase by New Hanover County of the $10.5 million Airlie Gardens. ALS and Arboretum Board members plan to expand the facilities and educational opportunities offered through the construction of a model residential home.

Overall Narrative:

A total of 7354 limited resource individuals were exposed to leadership skills. Limited resource and other nontraditional individuals participating in the identification of community problems totaled 3433.The completion of 618 projects/ resolution of issues was achieved by limited resource and other non-traditional leaders. In addition 2585 citizens and leaders participated in community/public decision-making processes as a result of leadership training. 4045 individuals gained facilitation skills that are important in the resolution of issues. A total of 19272 individuals were introduced to volunteer opportunities. A total of 21,134 individuals provided volunteer services to their community through local organizations and agencies, involvement in organized community activities, 4-H and homemaker club activities. Some are mentor for other leaders or youth mentors to youth, officers in volunteer organizations, managers of other volunteers and leadership training facilitators.

CEMP 13 Committee Members and Co-chairs:

Claudette L. Smith, Co-chair

Pat Peele, Co-chair

Si Garber

Judy Groff

John Gibson

Rodney Sawyer

Leon Danielson

Richard Liles

Doug Clement

Shirley Rouse

CEMP # 14 - MARKETING AND PRODUCTION OF ALTERNATIVE INCOME OPPORTUNITIES AND ENTERPRISES

Program Description

The goal of the CEMP is to assist commercial (objective #1), and small, part time and limited resource producers (objective #2), to select among and implement alternative opportunities so as to increase their income. Program efforts have been made in exploring and disseminating information on high value commercial horticultural production and marketing, specialty crops and niche markets, livestock, small scale agriculture, and natural resource products. The CEMP team continued its focus on business management issues in the past year along with developing connections with research (the Center for Specialty Crops and CEFS), non-government organizations such as RAFI-USA and CFSA (especially through the W.K. Kellogg PIA Project) and with county programs to develop market outlets and to provide resources for the development of enterprises which could be supplementary to tobacco (both flue cured and burley).

Abstract of Accomplishments

There were twenty eight (28) counties across the state reporting against this Major Program. During 1998, they reported a total $1.8 invested in marketing and production of alternative enterprises by producers and marketers who worked with Extension. Gross income from that investment was reported to be nearly $2.4 million. In addition, limited resource producers who used an integrated production and marketing approach to implement their alternative agriculture strategies because of

their work with Extension reported gross income of $380,000.

As a result of participation in the program at least 4 county FarmersU Markets expanded or reinvigorated themselves. Beekeeping, ornamental production, oriental vegetables, herbs, organic Christmas trees, pointsettias, raspberries, seedless watermelon were enterprises listed among the success stories of the program across the state. In addition, a speciality small fruit and vegetable cooperative has been established in eastern North Carolina which had a successful first year.

STATEWIDE MEASURES OF PROGRESS TOTALS

Objective #1

1. *Producers indicating interest in developing alternative enterprises

NUMBER 939

2. *Number of producers who try alternative enterprises, methods and practices

NUMBER: 381

Objective #2

1. *Number of producers interested

NUMBER: 556

2. *Number of producers who try alternative enterprises, methods and practices

NUMBER: 260

STATEWIDE IMPACTS TOTALS

Objective #1

1. *Dollars of new investment in production and marketing of alternative enterprises.

DOLLARS: $1,787,358.

2. *Dollars of gross income resulting from new investment and marketing of alternative enterprises.

DOLLARS: $2,394,050.

3. *Number of producers who gain knowledge about alternative production and marketing practices.

NUMBER: 1676.

Objective #2

1. *Number of producers who gain knowledge about alternative production and market practices.

NUMBER: 583

2. *Funding support obtained

DOLLARS: $33,648

3. *Dollars of gross income resulting from use of an integrated approach to implementing alternative agricultural opportunities and enterprises.

DOLLARS: $380,600.

VOLUNTEERS

Objective 1:

101 volunteers provided 635 hours of volunteer assistance valued at $6350.00.

Objective 2:

95 volunteers provided 673 hours of volunteer assistance valued at $6730.00.

SUCCESS STORIES

1. A group of growers in eastern NC worked with Cooperative Extension to develop an alternative crop for a niche market. They produced seven acres of seedless watermelon in a cooperative demonstration program with the NCSU Specialist Crops Program. Over $30,000 of gross sales were achieved

with this new crop.

2. A grower in Brunswick County wanted to explore the option of developing a Garden Center. She and her partner worked with the local Extension Agent who had participated in the CEMP sponsored program on Managing Risk through planning. They followed the steps recommended and developed a Business Plan for their new enterprise. With the Business Plan in hand they were able to establish and open their business.

3. Limited resource vegetable/ fruit producers have few marketing options for selling their produce in Catawba County. Potential loss of the Catawba Valley Farmers Market due to sale of the former location by the landowners threatened to further erode marketing opportunities. Cooperative Extension assisted the Farmers Market Board in securing a new site owned by the city of Newton. This collaboration has resulted in a fifty percent increase in market participation by growers while Newton planners report a RsignificantS increase in the number of citizens visiting the downtown area on days the Market is open, Longtime participants indicate renewed enthusiasm for the Market. Extension is further assisting in procurement of grant funds for future marketing/promoting of the Market.

4. Nine growers worked with the Specialty Crops Program (NCSU and the Cunningham Farm in Kinston) as the board of a new commercial vegetable and fruit marketing cooperative. Research, extension from NCSU and a marketing specialist with the NCDA&CS concentrated on Rseamless production and marketingS of muskmelon- a new niche for eastern NC. About 70 acres of muskmelons were produced and marketed, grossing approximately $400,000 as a new alternative enterprise.

Program Progress

The CEMP is making progress in developing a comprehensive approach to education and outreach in the marketing and production of alternative agricultural opportunities and enterprises. Production and marketing issues have been cast in a business plan and risk management context. Information has been provided to production agents so that they can assist producers and marketers to approach and handle business planning questions through two workshops. A number of specialty and niche market RschoolsS have been conducted across the state looking at both production and marketing issues. These have been conduced in some cases with NGO partners, commodity groups and communities colleges. Specialists and researchers have collaborated to develop Specialty Crop Program based at the Cunningham Farm in Kinston, the herb and vegetable collaboration in the mountain counties and the Fletcher Center and the commercial vegetable program. NCA&TSU continues to offer leadership in the Small Farm Program area with programs and a new Field Day on their farm in Greensboro.

CEMP Committee Members

John M. OUSullivan, Bill Jester (Co-chairs)

Jeanine Davis Rick Hamilton

Morris Dunn Ray McKinnie

Bob Edwards Gwyn Riddick

Ed Estes Doug Sanders

CEMP # 15 - NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION

AND MANAGEMENT

PROGRAM FOCUS

The Natural Resource Conservation and Management program encompasses environmental and natural resource fundamentals and management of natural resources to benefit society. Educational programs span the range from understanding ecosystems, dealing with community decisions regarding environmental concerns, to managing forested and farmed properties to attain landowner and societal benefits.

OVERALL NARRATIVE

Educational programs on environmental education, directed mainly at 4-H youth, and programs to enhance natural resource decision making, were delivered to over 10,000 people by 1,289 extension-trained volunteers, generating an estimated net benefit to target audiences and society of more than $1.1 million. The Forest Stewardship Program resulted in 115 new stewardship plans, while existing Stewardship lands generated over $14 million from timber sold and additional $300,000 from recreational leases. All of the forestry, fisheries and wildlife extension publications are available through the Natural Resources website (http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/nreos). New technology is being tested to cost-effectively increase desirable wildlife on farmlands in North Carolina.

VOLUNTEERS

Volunteer educators for environmental education and natural resource decision making totaled 1,289 in 1998.

NUMBER OF UNITS REPORTING

Objective 1 - 17; Objective 2 - 12; Objective 3 - 19; Objective 5 - 4

SUCCESS STORY

Randolph County, Extension Lynne Qualls reported the following:

Randolph County Extension Service has established and conducted an environmental education program for fifth graders since 1986. Seven schools have been chosen for the program; others have requested it. By providing hands-on learning experiences, youth have learned new skills, practiced decision making, and demonstrated cooperative work. For many youth, this 2-day program is their first overnight experience. Feedback from teachers and parents confirm how much youth learn; teachers report improved test scores from having certain subject matter included in the program. Demand from parents and school personnel indicates program success; one school now conducts their own program. In 1998, 307 youth benefited from the programs conducted by 53 instructors including university faculty, agency professionals, and private organizations. 84 volunteers supported the program with an average time spent of eight hours each, at a value of $6,720.

OBJECTIVE 1: ECOLOGICAL AWARENESS THROUGH ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION

Program Description: Participants, particularly youth, will increase their appreciation for and knowledge of biological diversity and ecosystem management. Educational programs presented by Extension Agents to teachers of youth included Project Learning Tree, Project WILD, Aquatic WILD, Catch Clinics, and Wildlife Habitat Judging.

Units Reporting Accomplishments: 17

Statewide Measures of Progress

10,049 persons participated in environmental education programs

6,506 persons delivered educational programs

264 requests for leadership training in educational program delivery were fulfilled

Statewide Impacts

8,903 programs were delivered

896 volunteers were involved

3,190 hours were spent

$31,900 was the value of volunteer leadership

Cost/Benefit Estimates

$163,655 value to targeted audiences

$269,675 value to society

$20,101 estimated cost

Narrative:

Through the training of volunteers and direct leadership, North Carolina Cooperative Extension Agents provided vital educational programs on environmental education to the citizens of our state. Principles learned in these programs influenced attitudes of youth that will result in better environmental stewardship in the future. Often, Extension Agents act as catalysts, bringing public school teachers and adult volunteers in the community together to deliver programs developed by subject matter Extension Specialists on the campuses.

Success Story

Randolph County, Extension Lynne Qualls reported the following:

Randolph County Extension Service has established and conducted an environmental education program for fifth graders since 1986. Seven schools have been chosen for the program; others have requested it. By providing hands-on learning experiences, youth have learned new skills, practiced decision making, and demonstrated cooperative work. For many youth, this 2-day program is their first overnight experience. Feedback from teachers and parents confirm how much youth learn; teachers report improved test scores from having certain subject matter included in the program. Demand from parents and school personnel indicates program success; one school now conducts their own program. In 1998, 307 youth benefited from the programs conducted by 53 instructors including university faculty, agency professionals, and private organizations. 84 volunteers supported the program with an average time spent of eight hours each, at a value of $6,720.

Mary Smith, 4-H Agent, Lenior County reported:

Through funds provided by Learn and Serve America grant. 4-H trained eight teachers on the Water Sourcebook curriculum for one renewal credit. Teachers were provided with resource kits and books to use in the classrooms with the students. Data gathered to date shows 307 youth, grades third through fifth, have received 1901 hours of instruction from the Water Sourcebook curriculum developing awareness, knowledge, and skills for sound water use decisions. As a result of the use of Water Sourcebook in the schools, two other teachers have requested and used the curriculum also.

OBJECTIVE 2: NATURAL RESOURCE DECISION MAKING

Program Description: People confronted with a wide range of viewpoints on natural resource and environmental management issues will gain knowledge, awareness, understanding, and skills to develop plans for overcoming barriers that prevent them from realizing the link between informed decision making and the capacity to sustain natural resources and the quality of life.

Units Reporting: 12

Statewide Measures of Progress:

6,565 people gained new knowledge

1,128 people made presentations at group meetings

Statewide Impacts:

425 people adopted new technology to solve environmental problems

1,621 people came to environmental forums

392 volunteers presented programs

2,685 hours were dedicated by volunteers to present programs

$26,850 was estimated value of volunteer time

Cost/Benefit

$291,000 value generated for targeted audiences

$424,000 value to society in general from the program

$32,325 estimated cost of program

Narrative:

This objective involves education of youth and adults about sustainable development and environmental quality. Youth audiences were reached through publication of "School Yard Environmental Projects: A Planning Primer", written especially for school teachers and 4-H Extension Agents. This publication is available in both English and Spanish.

Success Stories

Gaston County Extension Agent Kimberly A. Lough reported:

New ozone air quality standards to be enforced by the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency were established in 1997. Gaston County currently violates these standards and will be classified as a nonattainment area unless significant changes occur. Over 50% of the ozone problem stems from vehicle emissions. The North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service partnered with the Gaston County Quality of Natural Resources Commission and the N. C. Air Awareness Program to educate citizens on their role in reducing ozone. Through group and individual education efforts, two public libraries, four hospital sites, one industry, several county administration buildings, and two local businesses actively post Ozone Action Day notices on days forecast as high ozone days. The notices alert citizens of the ozone level for that day and provide seven personal "action tips" to reduce ozone. Citizens are becoming armed with proactive tools to improve air quality in Gaston County.

Lenoir County Extension Agent Mary Smith reported:

4-H introduced and trained Kinston High School science teacher Dorcas Green on the Storm Drain Stencil project. As a result, fourteen youth stenciled storm drains in the Kinston city area, created a Power Point presentation, published a paper in the National Science Honor Society Newsletter and had Storm Drain Awareness Day pronounced by the Mayor in the newspaper. One student interviewed River Keeper Rick Dove via the internet. Their presentation won second place in the Regional Science Honor Society competition. The students also produced a booklet of awareness activities in Lenoir County this school year by Kinston High School.

OBJECTIVE 3: FOREST STEWARDSHIP

Program Description:

Participants will maintain or improve the long-term sustainability of North Carolina's forests.

Units Reporting: 19

Statewide Measures of Progress:

1847 people were educated

115 stewardship plans were prepared

24,471 acres were put under stewardship planning

369,400 acres were leased for recreational use

Impacts:

371 people were educated about the Forest Stewardship Program

$302,799 was received by landowners for recreational leases

$14,296,359 was received for timber sold from stewardship planned lands

$1,878,000 of value was enhanced due to planning for forestry and wildlife resources

Cost/Benefit

$6,417,535 estimated values provided to targeted audiences

$6,789,020 estimated values provided to society in general

$85,990 estimated program cost

Narrative:

The Forest Stewardship Program is the leading example of how the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service add value to North Carolina through working with the North Carolina Forestry Division. The program is comprehensive, involving all phases of forestry from education of youth (reported above in Objective 1) to educating private landowners in planning and utilization of natural resources on their lands.

Success Story:

County Extension Director James Pearce, Edgecombe County reported:

An elderly landowner called one day asking if there was any yearly value to his property for anything besides the cropland and peanut and tobacco quotas. When questioned further he said the question was really about the value of the property for those wishing to use it for hunting. A high and low lease rate was given to him based on several factors, especially the location and amount of wooded land. After investigation, it was found that the producer renting the land for farming had been subleasing the hunting rights to others for the past 5 years for $5/ac. This represented a loss to him of over $9,100. The landowner began leasing the land himself at $1,840/yr, which was enough to pay the taxes on his property. This was significant, considering his fixed income.

OBJECTIVE 5: WILDLIFE AND FISHERY MANAGEMENT

Program Description:

Participants will improve the management of wildlife and fishery resources.

Units Reporting: 4

Statewide Measures of Progress:

276 landowners attained new knowledge about wildlife and fishery management

162 landowners adopted new practices for fishery and wildlife

population and habitat management

Statewide Impacts:

4,150 acres were managed better for fishery and wildlife resources

10,400 acres were leased for fishery and wildlife recreation

9 people became volunteers in providing educational programs

46 hours were spent by volunteers in delivering programs

$460 of value was expended by volunteers

Cost/Benefit

$48,000 of value was received by target audiences

$85,000 of value was received by society due to fishery and wildlife education

$3,828 was the estimated cost of delivering the programs

Narrative:

Within this program lies the agriculture-wildlife applied research program, dedicated to increasing desirable wildlife populations and values on farmlands in eastern North Carolina through habitat enhancement and economic analysis. The applied research program is in the middle of a 5-year demonstration research effort, in which the wildlife response to field border management, predator management, and ditch-bank management is being assessed. Additionally, the project links with water quality in Bio & Ag Engineering and Integrated Pest Management in Entomology. The economic tradeoffs considered by landowners when diverting land for wildlife habitat have been measured. A series of publications on Farm-Wildlife Stewardship and a companion video are in production in 1998. These educational products should generate enthusiasm among extension agents for delivering the program to interested landowners. The program is cosponsored by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and the Natural Resources Conservation Service. The fishery management aspect of this project has been enhanced by putting the Farm Pond Management Guide extension publication on the WWW.

CEMP TEAM MEMBERS

Peter T. Bromley, Zoology Department Extension Leader (Co-Chair)

James Pearce, County Extension Director, Edgecombe County (Co-Chair)

Bob Bardon, Forestry Extension Specialist

Clare-Marie Hannon, 4-H Center Director, Riedsville

Bill Gardner, Forestry Extension Specialist

Rick Hamilton, Forestry Extension Specialist

Mark Megalos, Forestry Extension Specialist

Scott Payne, Forestry Extension Specialist

Jim Rice, Fishery Extension Specialist

Bob Williamson, Natural Resources Extension Specialist

Bill Lord, Neuse River Environmental Education Specialist

Janine Rywak, 4-H Agent, Anson County

CEMP # 16 - NUTRITION AND WELLNESS

Program Description: The Nutrition and Wellness Major Program promotes optimum nutrition and healthy lifestyle management for positive outcomes throughout the life continuum. It is based on the fact that nutritional status has a direct impact upon health, quality of life and the ability to achieve physical and mental potential. Fundamental to its concepts is the recognition that diet-related risks involved in chronic diseases can be lowered through improved (healthier) behaviors and that healthier pregnancy outcomes can result from better prenatal nutrition.

Overview of 1998 CEMP accomplishments: Promoting health and preventing disease through diet and lifestyle in all North Carolinians regardless of age, gender, income, or cultural background formed the main focus of the Nutrition and Wellness Cooperative Extension Major Program. Education programs addressing diet, health, and chronic disease prevention were attended by North Carolinians of diverse income levels, age groups, genders, and/or cultural backgrounds in every county of the state and on the Cherokee Indian Reservation. Programs offered included Give Your Heart a Healthy Beat, Healthy Heart, Our Destiny Is Our Decision, Active for Life, NoonLiting, Healthy Eating for Life Program, HomePlate, Out For Lunch, Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program and the In-Home Breast-feeding Support Program. Programs were held in various settings including schools, work sites, churches, government buildings, businesses and outdoors, and for various lengths of time. Various methods (including the Internet, mailed materials, media, one-on-one contacts, and public meetings) were used to reach different audiences, such as day care workers, hospital employees, Head Start, Red Cross, food banks, housing authorities, and community action groups. Coalition building and collaborative partnerships with groups such as state and community agencies, universities, and private industries increased visibility, resources, and depth and breath of the programming. To support these activities CEMP members brought in more than 2.5 million dollars in grant and contract funding. As a result of the programming, over 76,000 participants increased awareness of their need to have good nutrition habits and over 50,000 changed diet and lifestyle habits, and improved their quality of life and the quality of life of others. Over 8,000 decreased dietary fat consumption, 5,410 decreased dietary sodium consumption, 6,558 increased fruit and vegetable consumption and over 4,000 increased dietary calcium consumption. As a result of the changed diet and lifestyles over 1,000 decreased high blood cholesterol levels, over 500 decreased high blood glucose levels, over 1,000 decreased high blood pressure levels, over 2,000 decreased excess body weight and over 2,000 adopted behaviors to improve their chances of delivering a normal weight baby.

Number of Units Reporting per Objective:

Objective 1: 69 units reporting

Objective 2: 45 units reporting

Objective 3: 21 units reporting

Objective 4: 55 units reporting

Statewide Measures of Progress Totals:

- 76,811 participants increased their knowledge of nutrition and diet.

- 48,784 increased knowledge that promotes health.

- 65,287 increased attitudes and aspirations that are indicative of need for good health

- 8,337 decreased fat consumption

- 5,410 decreased sodium consumption

- 6,558 increased fruit and vegetable consumption

- 4,311 increased calcium consumption

- 12,587 gained in knowledge that leads to reduced risk for chronic disease

- 10,338 increased skills that lead to reduced risk for chronic diseases

- 2,985 parents increased awareness and knowledge of importance of good nutrition for children

- 2,891 parents increased knowledge about good eating habits for children

- 2,134 parents and children participated in food and nutrition activities together.

- 6,178 participants increased awareness of available programs such as Food Stamps, WIC, free/reduced school meals

Statewide Impacts Totals:

- 50,989 participants improved diets to be more consistent with dietary guidelines for good health and the Food Guide Pyramid.

- 1,312 decreased their high blood cholesterol level

- 1,161 decreased their high blood pressure level

- 586 decreased their high blood glucose level

- 2,399 decreased excess weight

- 4,341 children adopted improved food behaviors.

- 1,970 women practiced behaviors to help improve their chances of delivering a normal weight baby

- 2,018 adopt behaviors such as seeking prenatal care

- 4,500 changed their meal planning to improve their diets.

Volunteers Involved: 4,224 volunteers gave 41,256 hours with a dollar value of $412,560 at $10/hr

Success Stories:

Osteoporosis is a painful disease affecting 1 in 2 adult women, causing 1.5 million debilitating bone fractures a year in the U.S. Last Fall NCCES developed a program to educate women how to reduce their risk of Osteoporosis and presented it to 23 groups reaching 250 people. Forsyth Bone Density Imaging Center assisted by providing literature and complementary bone density scans to two agents presenting the programs. A survey conducted in March, 1998, of the participants showed that 88 percent had made changes in diet/lifestyle to reduce risk of the disease, 54 percent had talked with their doctors, and 23 percent had bone density screening done as a result of the program. The Virginia CES estimated the yearly dollars saved if the condition is avoided is $11,582 per patient. Thus, for the participants who responded that they had a bone density scan done as a result of the program and who had made changes in diet and lifestyle, there should be a significant saving in money and quality of life in the future.

Three Duplin county physicians' offices have begun a patient referral process to Cooperative Extension for nutrition information. Patients are provided with basic nutrition and wellness information to prevent and lessen the risk of chronic diseases. 23 patients have been referred and taught skills to improve their quality of living. All referrals gained knowledge and indicated positive change in their lifestyle management.

Preventing and decreasing rates of chronic diseases remain a programmatic concern in Duplin County. Diabetes and hypertension prevalence are higher than state average. Through 13 different groups involving 15 weekly educational sessions 236 participants adopted diets and lifestyle behaviors consistent with dietary guidelines. Participants lost a total of 741 pounds and walked 7,212 miles.

NC Cooperative Extension Service, Gaston Center, provides training for child care providers to help improve the quality of child care. 50 providers attended Nutrition and Child Care in-service training. Of the 20 who took the pre, post, and delayed post test measures 95% increased knowledge of nutrition for school age children and 68% incorporated nutrition learning experiences into their classrooms. Comments from participants included: "Best workshop to date--hands-on (activities) great!" "Children loved making the new snacks and also eating them. Parents want the recipes so children can make them at home." "I enjoyed the workshop. It was very informative, fun, and entertaining. The instruction was excellent."

133 child care providers earned a total of 322 Continuing Education Credits as a result of training provided by cooperative Extension. The training topics included: Pleasing Picky Eaters, Nutrition Activities for Preschoolers, and Be Active Kids, a curriculum developed to help providers incorporate nutrition and physical fitness into the classroom. CES has worked closely with United Child Development Services to build a more positive relationship between the two agencies.

Children 5 years and younger are forming eating habits based on their experiences with foods in the home and in day care. Burke County Extension's nutrition program assistants visit day care centers and homes with a hands on nutrition learning activity for 5 sessions. The children try new foods and learn about basic nutrients. Day care providers have the chance to observe a teaching activity that can be reinforced at a later time.

Research has demonstrated that breast-fed infants have fewer respiratory-tract and ear infections than bottle-fed babies. Breast-feeding also reduces an infant's risk of food allergy and initial research suggests that breast-feeding may have a long-term positive effect on a baby's immune system. Cooperative Extension in cooperation with area agencies has provided prenatal and postnatal educational support for women interested in breast-feeding. As a direct result of this effort 150 women have been provided nutrition education for themselves and their infants. One new mother was having a great deal of difficulty with breast-feeding and considered quitting ; but, because of the educational information and encouragement that she received from the program assistant, she was very thankful that she was able to correct her feeding technique so that she could continue to nurse her baby.

Limited resource families need to acquire knowledge and skills and to change behavior for nutritionally sound diets. Using the ERIB 3 13-week curriculum, Nutrition Program Assistants worked with 1020 participants individually and in groups. Of those graduating 90% made a positive dietary change, 77% improved in at least one food resource management practice (such as planning meals, comparing prices, using shopping lists), and 71% improved in at least one food safety practice (such as thawing and storing foods properly).

Limited resource youth need to acquire the knowledge and skills for nutritionally sound diets and to contribute to their overall health, wellness and personal development. Nutrition Program Assistants provided at least six hours of participatory nutrition education sessions for 221 young people aged 5 -19. These sessions were delivered to the youth through four organized clubs, three school age child care groups, one special-interest group and 15 school enrichment groups and involved the assistance of forty volunteers.

Heart disease is the number 1 killer in Robeson County. Cooperative Extension in cooperation with the local hospital and Health Department sponsored "heart healthy" cooking workshops for the general public emphasizing healthy recipes and cooking techniques participants can use in their daily lives. 49 consumers participated in 3 workshops. A sample (23%) of those participants were surveyed several weeks following the classes and 73% of those sampled indicated they had used class recipes or modified their own recipes to reduce fat, sodium, or sugar. According to JADA (1996) nutrition intervention saves on average $8000 per patient. Thus, for the small group surveyed there was a savings of $64,000. Due to the high interest of county residents, workshops will continue quarterly.

Diabetes is one of the leading causes of death in Gaston County. An estimated 7220 county residents know they have diabetes however another 7000 have the disease and don't know it. The local Diabetes Coalition, made up of agency representatives and people with diabetes, planned and implemented "Get Smart, Eat Smart," a 3-class diabetes education series. Attendance ranged from 170 to 200 residents per session with 175 attending at least 2 of the 3 sessions. Follow-up evaluation indicates 153 participants planned to make changes (were at the preparation stage of Stages of Change theory) including portion control, label reading, increasing fiber and vegetables, decreasing fat and counting carbohydrates. Future interventions are being planned.

Poor eating habits and an unhealthy lifestyle have been proven to attribute to chronic disease. Five of the top ten leading causes of death in Henderson Co. are associated with dietary factors. NoonLiting, an Extension weight management educational program, emphasizes optimal nutrition and healthy lifestyles. As a result of NoonLiting, 27 participants lost 359 pounds and one participant who had been in NoonLiting all year lost a total of 136 pounds. In her own words she says, "I've lost a whole other person, literally!" She has improved her overall health and self esteem and credits Extension for giving her the "education tools" and support in accomplishing a safe weight loss.

Fourteen participants enrolled in a twelve hour/12 week "Give Your Heart a Healthy Beat" series with all reporting 2-4 positive changes in their nutritional habits. The top three changes made were: reduce the amount of fat consumed, consume no fried food, and increase exercise. Pre/post test scores indicated that participants increased by 29 points in knowledge scores.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S. Diet related diseases like obesity, hypertension, and diabetes can be controlled with education and diet modification. Despite the strong link between diet and chronic disease, people fail to understand the connection. To heighten awareness and assist healthy behavior changes, health fairs, educational programs such as NoonLiting, Make Nutrition Come Alive, save Your Heart, Fitness Walking, What's On Your Plate, and A Less Fattening Holiday helped 994 individuals adopt positive attitudes and aspirations for improved health and to make behavior changes for positive outcomes. Specific indicators of change are as follows: 38 decreased high blood cholesterol, 44 decreased high blood pressure, and 683 decreased excess weight.

Rutherford County ranks 92 out of 100 counties for deaths related to heart disease. Most of the risk factors for heart disease are lifestyle related and therefore can be controlled. "Give Your Heart A Healthy Beat," an Extension program to reduce risk of cardiovascular disease, was conducted to help individuals reduce their risk of heart disease. Thirty participants completed a twelve week series of workshops on diet, exercise and stress management. Pre and post-screening showed that 21 participants reduced both cholesterol and blood sugar levels and 12 participants lowered blood pressure levels.

Overall Narrative to Capture Program Progress and Accomplishments: Promoting health and preventing disease through diet and lifestyle in all North Carolinians regardless of age, gender, income, or cultural background formed the main focus of the Nutrition and Wellness Cooperative Extension Major Program. Education programs addressing diet, health, and chronic disease prevention were attended by North Carolinians of diverse income levels, age groups, genders, and/or cultural backgrounds in every county of the state and on the Cherokee Indian Reservation. Programs offered included Give Your Heart a Healthy Beat, Healthy Heart, Our Destiny Is Our Decision, Active for Life, NoonLiting, Healthy Eating for Life Program, HomePlate, Out For Lunch, Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program and the In-Home Breast-feeding Support Program. Programs were held in various settings including schools, work sites, churches, government buildings, businesses and outdoors, and for various lengths of time. Various methods (including the Internet, mailed materials, media, one-on-one contacts, and public meetings) were used to reach different audiences, such as day care workers, hospital employees, Head Start, Red Cross, food banks, housing authorities, and community action groups. Tools used in programming included the Dietary Guidelines, the Food Guide Pyramid and food label reading. Coalition building and collaborative partnerships with groups such as state and community agencies, universities, and private industries increased visibility, resources, and depth and breath of the programming. To support these activities CEMP members brought in more than 2.5 million dollars in grant and contract funding. As a result of the programming, over 76,000 participants increased awareness of their need to have good nutrition habits and over 50,000 changed diet and lifestyle habits, and improved their quality of life and the quality of life of others. Over 8,000 decreased dietary fat consumption, 5,410 decreased dietary sodium consumption, 6,558 increased fruit and vegetable consumption and over 4,000 increased dietary calcium consumption. As a result of the changed diet and lifestyles over 1,000 decreased high blood cholesterol levels, over 500 decreased high blood glucose levels, over 1,000 decreased high blood pressure levels, over 2,000 decreased excess body weight and over 2,000 adopted behaviors to improve their chances of delivering a normal weight baby.

Because increasing numbers of North Carolinians live on fixed incomes and in poverty, these limited resource audiences (including the elderly, mothers with young children, youth, and people of diverse cultures including Asians, Hispanics and Native Americans) were specifically targeted with educational programming. Hispanics represent approximately 2% of the population, however the numbers of migrants are growing. North Carolina has Native American tribes located across the state and one federally recognized tribe, the Cherokee. North Carolina is one of the fastest growing states in the nation in the number of citizens over the age of 65. Also, many women are entering the work force for the first time as part of the "Work First" program. The many programs included Our Destiny Is Our Decision (for Native Americans), Healthy Eating for Life Program (for older adults), Out For Lunch (for mothers and young children), and EFNEP (for mothers and young children). Participants (who were food stamp eligible) improved knowledge and skills in meal planning, wise use of their food dollar, food safety, and time management related to food preparation. These skills are enabling them to feed themselves and their families healthier meals and delay or prevent chronic diseases.

One program, A Man's Guide To Basic Culinary Art, developed under the CEMP to target men who for the first time are responsible for purchasing and preparing food for themselves and their families, received three awards for packaged programs, as follows: first place for the North Carolina Extension Family & Consumer Science (NCEFCS) State award; first place for the National Extension Association Family & Consumer Science (NEAFCS) Southern Region award; and second place for the NEAFCS National award.

CEMP Team:

Co-chairs: Nancy Smith, Jackie McClelland,

Team members: Carolyn Lackey, Carolyn Dunn, Angie Fraser, Susan Baker, Geissler Baker, Janice Lloyd, Sharon Farless, Candace Murray, Christine Smith, Lynn Hoggard, Sarah Ash

CEMP # 17 - RESIDENTIAL AND COMMUNITY HORTICULTURE, TURF, FORESTRY, AND PEST MANAGEMENT - 1998 SUMMARY REPORT

Synopsis:

The educational programs under this CEMP aim to increase the knowledge of North Carolina citizens and nonprofit organizations in consumer horticulture activities and structural pest management. Programs primarily target home owners who seek knowledge about controlling structural pests, installing and maintaining their home landscape, and growing their own vegetables and fruits. However, programs are also provided for community gardening projects and caretakers of community property such as schools and parks and recreation grounds personnel. Through the increased knowledge provided and adoption of practices, this program aims to improve the economic and aesthetic value of private and public property while ensuring environmental stewardship.

Overall Narrative and Accomplishment Numbers:

Educational programs on pest management helped more than 35,946 people increase their knowledge of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices. Of these, more than 21,900 adopted IPM practices in their pest management strategies. This saved nearly $334,000 through reduced pesticide use. Counties reported that $197,640 was also saved through reduced pesticide-related contamination problems, e.g. runoff into municipal sewer systems and container disposal problems. About 21,200 people reported reducing risk of their own and their pets exposure to insecticides through more knowledgeable use. The programs on federal guidelines governing wildlife control and depredation reached more than 12,000 people..

Programs on proper plant selection, proper plant management, and proper plant pest management helped over 254,000 people increase their awareness and knowledge of these areas. Over 151,000 increased their skills and awareness in best management practices (BMPs) and proper pesticide use to further their role in protection of the environment and urban ecosystem. Skills specific to ornamental tree, shrub, and turf care were acquired by almost 149,000 people. About 129,800 felt the knowledge gained and subsequent actions taken increased their satisfaction with the appearance and environmental protection of their residential or community landscape. Approximately $7 million was estimated as the increase in property value due to application of the knowledge and skills gained from these programs. Nearly 130,000 people were reported to have employed proper techniques of plant growth and integrated pest management to protect the environment in their community.

Gardeners numbering near 47,000 participated in educational programs for fruit and vegetable gardening. Over 26,000 of these gardeners adopted Best Management Practices (BMPs) for their gardens which provided them with $361,000 in avoided costs. About 18,000 gardeners adopted BMPs that minimized water pollution and maximized water conservation, reducing water usage by over 1.3 million gallons.

The training and utilization of a Master Gardener Volunteer staff continues to be an economical way to enhance Extension teaching resources. The 2,044 volunteers donated 111,267 hours (valued at $1, 112,670) while assisting 410,518 gardeners (excluding mass media contacts). Activities included: answering 43,806 phone calls, diagnosing 13,273 plant samples, manning 128 exhibits for 168,174 people, 108 television shows, writing 504 news articles, 179 radio programs, giving programs to 562 groups with 17,665 in attendance, conducting 193 school programs for 14,715 youth, developing 55 school gardens for 3,267 youth, sharing information with 11,441 friends and neighbors, and maintaining 109 demonstration gardens viewed by 138,931 gardeners. Volunteers contributed over $65,700 out-of-pocket expenses, drove over 285,000 miles (valued at $91,200), and raised $116,970 for a total contribution of $1,269,570.

Number of Units (Counties) Reporting:

Objective #1 37

#2 61

#3 38

Statewide Measures of Progress totals

Objective #1

35,946 increased their knowledge of IPM practices.

12,412 increased their awareness and knowledge of current state and federal guidelines governing wildlife control/depredation.

21,921 adopted IPM practices including improved decision-making abilities in determining the need to spray and/or obtain the assistance of a pest control professional.

Objective #2

254,608 participants increased their knowledge and awareness of proper plant selection, proper plant management, and proper plant pest management practices in residential and community landscapes.

151,064 participants increased their awareness and skills in protecting the environment and the urban ecosystem through best management practices and proper pesticide use.

149,108 increased skills in tree, shrub, turf, and ornamental plant care.

129,866 increase their satisfaction (change in attitude) with aesthetic appearance of and ecological protection of their residential and community landscapes.

Objective #3

47,069 increased their knowledge and awareness of Best Management Practices for growing fruits and vegetables such as mulched gardens, drip irrigation, fertilization based on plant growth, fall clean-up, proper spacing, pruning, etc.

26,128 adopted Best Management Practices for growing fruits and vegetables.

18,328 increased their awareness and knowledge of gardening practices which have a detrimental impact on water quality.

15,370 adopted gardening Best Management Practices that minimize water pollution and maximize water conservation.

Statewide Impact totals

Objectives #1

$339,645 was saved (by the consumer) through reduced insecticide use (fewer pesticide purchases).

$197,640 was saved through reduced pesticide-related contamination problems (e.g. runoff into municipal sewer systems, and container disposal problems).

21,180 participants reduced their risk of being exposed to insecticides through reduced and/or targeted insecticide use.

19,123 participants demonstrated a better understanding of the use of IPM as a means of enhancing their ability to be good environmental stewards.

Objective #2

7,682,602 increased their property value through adoption of landscaping practices, such as planning, design, establishment, and maintenance.

130,063 increased protection of the environment and the urban ecosystem through proper plant growth, plant health care, and integrated pest management.

161,727 citizen increased their satisfaction with improved aesthetic appearance of residential and community landscapes.

Objective #3

$36,1195 was saved (avoid cost) by adopting Best Management Practices.

4,913,209 square feet of gardens were grown by program participants.

1,343,000 gallons of water was saved by adoption of water conservation measures.

Volunteers Involved:

Objective #1 876

#2 2,177

#3 1878

Success Story

Success stories from CEMP 17 can be as diverse as the audience Extension serves. Examples of how Extension programs can impact a multinational corporation or an individual homeowner show the level of commitment agents have to Extension's mission.

Craven County - Based on a survey of horticulture newsletter subscribers, 198 readers reduced fertilizer use, 126 reduced pesticide use, 418 gained knowledge about proper pesticide use, and 126 fertilized their property based on soil test results. In addition, as a result of this information 537 newsletter readers saved either time or money, estimated by the readers at a total of $23,000.

Caldwell County - This year's program consisted of 75 landscape, home gardening meetings, workshops and demonstrations with 2,487 participating. Two hundred professionals and 1,290 home owners adopted at least one recommended practice, resulting in an average savings of $35.00 per individual.

Guilford County - The Novartis corporation in Greensboro has 700 employees that work in various divisions. The Turf and Ornamental division is by far the smallest and as a result it is not well know what their products are or what they do. Therefore, this division decided to hold an employees awareness day. The Cooperative Extension service was asked to participate by setting up and manning an exhibit on local pests. Employees were allowed to ask questions, bring in samples and a computer was set up to show employees where they could access horticultural information useful to themselves and the products that the Turf and Ornamental group is in charge of. A survey reveled that 630 employees came out for this day and of them 547 learned new practices that they plan on implementing.

Granville County - To encourage more youth gardening, the local Boy Scouts, the Oxford Mens' Garden Club, and the Granville Cooperative Extension Center worked together to make ten 10' X 10' raised bed gardens on vacant land owned by the National Guard Armory, adjacent to the Extension Center. The gardens are currently being used by two programs sponsored by the Granville County Schools, "Coaches Club", and S.O.S., ("Support Our Students") and a 4-H Summer Fun Program. Twice a week, 25 students from two elementary and two middle schools and 4-H 'ers work in the garden with the Horticulture Agent providing instruction. Children harvested and took home nutritious vegetables.

Lee County - Residents of Sanford Public Housing had always wanted vegetable gardens, but didn't have space, money, or know how to get started. This season, Master Gardeners built raised bed gardens for 40 families, and meet regularly with these families during the growing season to supply expertise, plants, and fertilizers. The average garden feeds a family of four four meals weekly, worth $160 for the 10 weeks the gardens have produced so far in 1998. The gardens enhance the nutrition, health, and pride of these families.

Onslow County - Hurricanes Fran and Bertha caused extensive damage to barrier frontal dunes and beachfront property on N. Topsail Island. Extension organized and conducted a Coastal Plants Workshop for area homeowners and town personnel. Extension mobilized MG volunteers, Garden Council club members and US Marines to conduct a two day planting of 25,000 sprigs of American beachgrass on 2,100 feet of public beach access frontage with an estimated value of $1,000 per linear foot.

Buncombe County - Much of the information home gardeners receive on plant selection and cultural practices is received at local garden centers, but few garden center employees have extensive horticultural training. "Garden Facts" provided 12 hours of training to 30 garden center employees. 10 garden centers from 5 counties participated. Each garden center received an extensive notebook of NCCES publications, and part of each class was spent "practicing" finding information in the notebook. Of the 26 participants who completed a followup survey, all indicated the training was very beneficial and that they were better able to answer questions for customers.

Pitt County - Master Gardener volunteers installed two Urban Water Quality Xeriscape sites. Each site features 40 drought tolerant perennials that will require little to no irrigation water after establishment. The purpose of this site is to develop a teaching garden to educate gardeners how to select low maintenance plants for eastern NC.

Forsyth County - Many Hispanic families living in low income housing do not add fresh fruits and vegetables to their diets. The Agriculture agent, working with the nutrition program assistant, and volunteers, placed three raised vegetable garden beds in a predominate Hispanic housing unit. Sixteen different individuals representing eight families successfully grew different vegetables in the raised beds. Participants reported new gardening skills, the use of new vegetables and greens in their diet, and increased self-esteem.

Cabarrus County - The Cabarrus county web site received over 45,000 hits this year. One user stated "I just used your decision support system to track down the problem with an azalea ('Mildred Mae') that has baffled me by turning yellow each fall. Thanks again for this easy-to-use resource."

Buncombe County - The Urban Horticulture Newsletter is mailed to an average of 1300 county residents each month. In April, 879 responded to a survey. Of these, 99.8 % indicated the newsletter increased their knowledge and 75% indicated it helped them save time or money. Increasing their knowledge of environmental stewardship, they learned: correct fertilizing practices (58%), correct pruning (52%), selecting plants suited to the location (47%), mulching (37%), soil testing (37%), and pest identification (26%).

Forsyth County - Visits to the homes of citizens are a means of assessing and positively identifying problems of shade trees in urban counties. The value of a home visit has been calculated at $38 each. In a 5 month period, the Forsyth County Center made 34 visits to solve tree problems, a value of $1292. In one case, a tree service had quoted work for two trees at $1400. The disease problem was correctly identified and the resident followed the recommended practices for a net savings of $1,000.

Wilson County - The Extension Service in cooperation with the local Appearance Commission held educational programs on specific gardening practices. Gardeners have adopted best management gardening practices such as calibrating pesticide sprayers, reading pesticide labels, fertilizing based on a soil test, using water wisely and disposing of pesticides safely. By adoption of these useful practice it was estimated to save each participant $25 to make a total savings of $22,700.

Moore County - The Village of Whispering Pines has traditionally fogged the neighborhoods with insecticide to control "mosquitoes" leading to a number of complaints. By identifying blackfly larvae in the water and prescribing a biopesticide (Vectobac) for control, Village Manager Chris Parillo reported that "positive results are being achieved...greatly reducing larvae."

Forsyth County - As Forsyth County becomes more urbanized, residents are more aware of concerns related to pesticide use and pest control. During 1998 approximately 680 residents have learned IPM methods via Extension sponsored classes and consultations. Consequently, at least $2800 was saved through reduced insecticide use. Hundreds of residents were advised on the proper timing of pesticide applications as a means of getting the best use of their products while minimizing risks to the environment and nontarget wildlife.

NCSU - Entomology and Food Science extension specialists assisted a NC-based supermarket chain with a customer allegation of food product contamination. The allegations were determined to be false and the supermarket denied customers claim for $2000 compensation.

Request from the legal affairs office of a NC-based supermarket chain to formulate their pest control contract for all stores in the southeastern U.S.

Cooperated with a pest control operator, Entomologists at Clemson University and the Smithsonian Institute to assist a medical facility with an unusual infestation of flat bark beetles that had shut down the entire surgical wing for over 2.5 weeks. Cost figures for revenue lost and for the correct measures taken were estimated to exceed $500,000.

Request from the NC Zoological Park concerning a problem with mites infesting animal feed. The mites were biting zoo personnel handling the feed. Nonchemical control recommendations saved the zoo an estimated $8000 that might have been expended if a fumigation had been performed.

Fly problem in a mausoleum. Lack of control was causing problems for visitors and unnecessary expenditure of money for ineffective control by the pest control operator. The source of the infestation was identified and recommendations for nonchemical control measures were implemented within days, reducing the fly population by an estimated 90%.

Two television appearances with state regulatory officials to discuss the questionable merit of a consumer termite bait product. Estimated viewing audience of over 100,000. In the ensuing months, the Federal Trade Commission and eight states (including NC) filed a lawsuit against the manufacturer for the same points outline in the TV interviews.

Membership

Erv Evans Co-chair David Nash Co-chair

Mike Waldvogel Bruce Williams

Karen Neil Art Bruneau

Toby Bost Charles Apperson

Carl Matyac Steven Bambara

Lewis Howe Larry Bass

Bruce Williams

CEMP#18 - RESIDENTIAL AND COMMUNITY WATER AND WASTE MANAGEMENT

1. Residential and Community Water and waste Management

2. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Residential and Community Water and Waste Management Cemp impacts the private and public sectors environmentally and economically. Drinking water quality, wastewater management, watershed management and waste management are the key elements. Proper management of waste wastewater, and water shed ultimately affect drinking water quality.

3. ABSTRACT: over 56,000 persons gained knowledge in water quality issues including watershed management, wastewater management and water quality improvement. 1,282 volunteers were involved in the program with a value of time of $85, 250. The economic value of the Residential and Community Water and Waste Management Program is estimated at $1,213,130 to the targeted audiences including businesses, industries, schools, communities, professionals, and the general public, with a program cost of #183,730. Environmental impacts include the recycling/reuse of 620,697 lbs of household hazardous waste including 3,458 lbs of pesticides; 36.4 tons of scrap tires; 7 tons of white goods: 6,429 pesticide containers; and 9,700 lbs of plastic plant pots. In addition, 25,130 tons of yard waste; and 79, 735 gallons of used oil were recycled for reuse.

4. NUMBER OF UNITS REPORTING ACCOMPLISHMENTS

38 counties

5. STATEWIDE MEASURES OF PROGRESS TOTALS:

8070 people increased their knowledge and awareness of quality best management practices to prevent contamination of water

1673 people adopted best management practices to prevent water contamination

399 reduced water contamination risks as a result of changed practices after water screenings

2049 people increased their knowledge and awareness of waste water systems

128 people had their septic tanks pumped

368 people adopted best wastewater management practices

61 people avoided septic system failure by changing practices

5856 people increased their knowledge and awareness of the need for water quality and conservation

798 adopted best management practices to conserve industrial and residential water

38,609 people increased their knowledge and awareness of waste management principles

1669 recycling programs were implemented

66 industries /municipalities adopted waste management practices

5937 consumers adopted improved waste management practices

79, 735 gallons of used oil collected for recycling from farmers and do-it- yourselfers

620,697 lbs of household hazardous materials collected for recycling/reuse

6. STATEWIDE IMPACT TOTALS:

$205,500 healthcare dollars saved through detection and treatment of contaminated water

$369,900 costs avoided in replacing failed septic systems

$207,100 costs avoided through decreased use of residential water

$43,200 costs avoided through decreased use of public water

$74,980 saved by municipalities through reduction of amount and toxicity of water

$9,823,003 saved through reduced waste in landfills

$175,573 saved through recycling materials

$157,416 saved by counties or municipalities through Project HERO

7. VOLUNTEERS INVOLVED AND VALUE:

1282 volunteers/$85,250

8. SUCCESS STORES WITH REAL PROGRAM IMPACT

Guilford County

Each year thousands of ornamental plants are planted into Guilford county landscapes, as a result a stock pile of plastic nursery pots has occurred. Unfortunately these are not welcome in the current city recycling program so frequently are disposed of through the landfill. To prevent this a Recycling program was established with through the cooperative Extension service with the help of Plastics revolutions a recycling company who does handle this type plastic. Television spots were conducted as well as newspaper articles to alert people to how these pots would be handled more environmentally friendly through our one day collection. We collected 5,500 lbs of plastic which will be used to make new nursery pots and parking car stops. We also collected 300 lbs which backyard propagators come and collected to reuse for producing landscape plants.

Burke County

Thirty-four homeowners participated in a Backyard Composting workshop. Using a self-anchoring scale the homeowners showed a 39% increase in composting knowledge from the workshop. A small portable compost unit was given to each participant. A survey conducted two months after the workshop showed that all participants had an active compost unit in operation. Three participants ordered an extra unit and one participant built a permanent unit.

Gaston County

Groundwater supplies drinking water to 50% of Gaston County's population. Yet, over 90 incidents of groundwater contamination have occurred. Extension linked with Gaston Quality of Natural Resources Commission and UNC-Charlotte to provide pollution prevention seminars for businesses and industries in two target areas. Attendees learned about their potential to pollute, liability as a polluter and pollution prevention options. Free environmental audits were offered. Of the 20 attendees, 3 called back for further advice, 6 requested site visits to verify sound pollution prevention practices on-site and 4 said they would make changes in their business practices. Information on Gaston County's wellhead protection program was new to 75% of the attendees. Thus, the seminar served an unmet need among key players in reducing groundwater contamination in Gaston County.

Onslow County

Surf City (Pender County) has road flooding problems after storm events. The Surf City Planning Board requested Extension to look into their stormwater problems and make recommendations. As a result of our suggestions, one member (who is a local builder) now incorporates stormwater control measures on each property he develops. The planning board has also taken a serious stance on the impacts of impervious pavement. It is hoped that through these efforts and continued public education that the flooding problems can be improved, even with continued development in the area.

Pasquotank County

Pasquotank County citizens now load up free mulches and composts recycled from yard wastes by the city and county solid waste departments. Sometimes, loads of mulch are depleted before the county can arrange to restock them as residents haul it away for use on their landscapes. Over 50 tons of mulch per year are recycled to the public. Over 12 tons of finished compost are recycled to the public who eagerly use it to improve soils in gardens and plant beds.

Avery County

Avery County CES held a very successful water screening the week of May 18, 1998. We were able to check 80 households for Nitrate and 78 for Triazines. Most samples proved to be very low in both Nitrates and Triazines. We did find two households which were high or borderline in the presence of Nitrates and one which was high in Triazines. All participants were educated as to the importance of having their water screened and to the dangers of a high Nitrate and/or Triazine level in their water supply.

Nash County

We screened 82 well-water samples at a Farm and Home Safety Expo. The highest nitrate reading was 11. Upon visiting the family, it was found that their well was hand-dug and located under the family room floor. (Move the coffee table, lift the rug and lift the floor and there is the well.) We advised that they should purchase bottled water for drinking. We recommended that they also hook on to their son's well next door. After having his water screened, the son had his line extended to his parents house.

Person County

On March 13, 1998, Extension hosted a workshop on using "skimmers" in sediment basins to better clean up the water coming off construction sites. Local agents, specialists and the Orange County Sediment and Erosion Control Director led the workshop. Participants included engineers, developers, county employees from across North Carolina and officials from South Carolina DEHEC. Duke University sent their forester and facilities management employees. As a result of the March workshop, Duke is installing "skimmers" at the Fuqua School of Business construction site. A followup consultation with Extension and the Orange S&E Director was held at the site to insure the best implementation of the "skimmers" and optimum basin design. This sediment control best management practice is a direct result of Extension programming. Construction officials at Duke stated that they plan to use "skimmers" at other sites.

Cherokee County

The Cherokee County Extension Service staff and volunteer from across the county worked together to make Big Sweep 1998 a great success. Extensive media coverage brought much attention to the litter awareness campaign. Big Sweep is a nationally recognized waterway clean up that creates litter awareness and promotes proper waste disposal. this year was the second year that the Cherokee County Extension Service coordinated the event. A total of 70 participants cleaned litter from local rivers and lakes, collecting 146 bags of garbage and many large items such as tires and appliances that were eyesores to the beautiful waterway scenery. An estimated 19 miles of terrain was covered by Big Sweeper. Solid Waste Management brochures were disseminated to each participant in order to further promote proper waste management disposal, and to support the county's recycling program initiatives. T-shirts and door prizes were awarded.

Watauga County

With rapid urban development and high intensity agriculture, water quality is becoming an increasing concern among local citizens. To assure that sufficient information is provided regarding local water supplies, the Watauga Cooperative Extension Service conducted an extensive water quality educational program that included well water screening for nitrates and triazines. Fifty-nine wells were screened, and two were found to have high levels of nitrates. In cooperation with the Health Department, these individuals were able to do further testing and take action to rectify the problem causing the excessive level of pollutants. One learned that the well was poorly constructed, and the well contractor repaired the well at no cost. Programs such as this highlights the need to assure clean water, but also indicates to the citizens that continued vigilance will assure a clean water supply both now and in the future.

Alexander County

The Alexander County Government came to Extension asking for assistance in implementing a county-wide Swap Shed. The Swap Shed is designed to house useable items that some people want to do away with, but still have a useful life. After receiving a $5,000 grant and using local prison labor equating to $4,800 value, Alexander Extension managed to construct the 20' x 30' facility. The shed is loaded with shelves and a large clothing rack where clothes on hangers can be hung. Items recycled and kept out of our county's waste stream include: couches, recliners, baby cribs, bed rails, TVs, windows, blankets, clothes, books, lamps, bicycles, and much more. People can leave items or pick up useful items. This helps those in need and it helps keep items out of our waste stream. In six months, 34 pieces of furniture and 9 tons of trash have been diverted from our waste stream.

Cabarrus County

When Cabarrus Co. Commissioners decided to fund a first-ever Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day, Extension Agent was asked to co-chair the event due to Extension's past efforts in solid waste. Extension mobilized a number of volunteers, made arrangements with NCDA to remove pesticides, and coordinated steering committee meetings. Results: 625 participants; 63,557 lbs. HHW collected, including 2,400 lbs. of pesticides; 234 lead-acid batteries; 1250 gallons used motor oil; and 4,580 lbs. scrap tires collected. Participant surveys rated event very positive, and suggested a bi-annual event.

Burke County

Thirty-four homeowners participated in a Backyard Composting workshop. Using a self-anchoring scale the homeowners showed a 39% increase in composting knowledge from the workshop. A small portable compost unit was given to each participant. A survey conducted two months after the workshop showed that all participants had an active compost unit in operation. Three participants ordered an extra unit and one participant built a permanent unit.

Cumberland County

The pesticide container program continues to be successful. In 1998 2429 containers were ground for recycling with only 40 containers rejected. This represents a 1.6% rejection rate for 1998. We feel our efforts are paying off in educating producers in the importance of properly rinsing pesticide containers so they can be handled for recycling properly. pesticide container program continues to be successful. In 1998 2429 containers were ground for recycling with only 40 containers rejected. This represents a 1.6% rejection rate for 1998. We feel our efforts are paying off in educating producers in the importance of properly rinsing pesticide containers so they can be handled for recycling properly.

Onslow county

There are many septic systems in coastal NC. Frequently, residents are unfamiliar with septic systems, what they do, and how they operate. This unfamiliarity has likely contributed to early septic system failures and drainfield problems. A refrigerator magnet, entitled "Not in My Septic System", was developed that lists key cloggers and killers of septic systems. The magnet also reminds homeowners to have their tank pumped and has spaces for filling in service information. Pumping and proper maintenance can help prolong the life of a system and prevent costly repairs. The magnet is very popular. Two common responses are "I didn't know that I shouldn't add coffee grounds!" and "I have no idea when it was last pumped!"

9. OVERALL NARRATIVE:

Water quality issues have been addressed in 1998 with 1978 water samples being screened for lead and nitrate. These participants were educated on the meaning of the results and measures that could be taken to alleviate the problems. Educating youth on water quality issues was a major component during the period. Over 5,300 youth were reached with education programs in water conservation and improving water quality.

Wastewater management programs in Extension have targeted homeowners, builders, realtors, and health department professionals. The Southeast Regional On-Site wastewater Training center in Brunswick County joins 3 other sites in the state that can be used to demonstrate different system and their operation to various audiences. Maintenance of septic systems has been another focus of extension's education. A television segment on Extension's program on the public television station reached over 200,00 people. After the program over 150 people requested the Septic System Owners Guide fact sheet. Traditional programs on the topic reached 275 people. Of those approximately 40% reported having their septic tank pumped after attending the program.

Watershed management education has been conducted through the emphasis on wellhead protection, water conservation techniques, proper land application of treated sewer wastewater, storm water management , and stream monitoring. Educational program include field days, watershed project demonstrations, and volunteer training to implement stream monitoring programs

Waste management programs have targeted businesses, industries, consumers and youth. Over 4,000 youth participated in Conservation Field Days, Big Sweep and classroom composting and vermicomposting. The Waste Education Center in Catawba County is the state's first such center. It features hands-on exhibits and activities for all ages to see and learn about waste management and its effect on the environment. It is a joint effort between Cooperative extension and County Government. One county reported a 500% increase in the amount of waste diverted from the landfill when compared to the same 6 month period in 1997. Another county reported a 400% increase in the amount of used oil collected in 1998 when compared to the 1996 totals when they began Project HERO.

10. CEMP COMMITTEE MEMBER AND CO-CHAIRS

Wilma Hammett Co-chair

George Autry Co-chair

Greg Jennings Rhonda Sherman

Will Harman Dorothy Miner

Sarah Kirby Sandy Wiggins

Bill Hunt Nancy White

Carolyn Mojonnier Kathy Bunton

Brenda Morris Allen Caldwell

Craven Hudson Frank Humenik

David Lindbo Mike Hoover

Mitch Renkow Diana Rashash

Judy Mock Bob Rubin

Deborah Myatt Deanna Osmond

Suzanne Rhinehart

CEMP # 19 - RESILIENT YOUTH, FAMILIES, AND COMMUNITIES

Program Description: The youth, families, and communities of North Carolina face challenges which threaten their resiliency. Reduced resiliency in turn threatens the economic, social, and environmental well-being of educational, corporate, and governmental systems on which the citizens of North Carolina depend.

"Cooperative Extension Major Program 19: Resilient Youth, Families, and Communities" takes action to strengthen the resiliency of youth, families, and communities. Resiliency is the ability to cultivate strengths to positively meet challenges. The program focuses on prevention programming which strengthens "protective factors" and reduces "risk factors." Participants bring together and involve educators, researchers, agency and organizational personnel, youth, families, communities, advocates, and practioners who share an interest in strengthening the resiliency of North Carolina's youth, families, and communities.

Accomplishments for 1998 are reported in the context of three objectives:

Youth

Families

Communities

Overview:

Youth in high risk environments in 38 counties participated in community based programs resulting in those youth acquiring coping skills, making informed decisions and developing a sense of purpose and future. Over 17,000 increased basic life skills; over 9,000 increased literacy; and over 12,000 were actively involved in their communities. Almost 5,000 reduced use of drugs and alcohol; over 900 reduced their judicial involvement; and over 1,000 were less violent.

Families learned and practiced skills which enabled them to cope with adversity and be more resilient thanks to programs in 14 counties. Over 1,000 money management plans were developed; over 3,000 people became more effective communicators as well as more capable at coping and nurturing practices. These programs resulted in a savings of almost $70,000 for involved families and a reduction in conflict for 3,500 families.

Eighteen Extension Centers are mobilizing citizens and their communities to create environments which strengthen families and provide for risk reduction for youth. As leaders and partners in collaborative efforts, Extension is building the capacity of community members to identify and address their needs. Specifically, these efforts have resulted in 55 prevention programs developed, 60 new family support programs, 49 economic and community development programs being established, and 658 citizens demonstrating increased leadership roles.

Units Reporting:

Youth - 38

Families - 14

Communities - 18

Measures of Progress Totals:

Youth:

Increased communication, decision making, working in groups, understanding self and relating to significant adults.

NUMBER DEMONSTRATING 17,233

Increased literacy

NUMBER DEMONSTRATING 9,254

Increased community involvement

NUMBER DEMONSTRATING 12,753

Increased knowledge and awareness of and alternative to drugs and alcohol use

NUMBER DEMONSTRATING 12,867

Family:

Number of money management plans made 1,175

Increased knowledge and awareness of effective communication skills 3,579

Increased knowledge and awareness of family, coping and nurturing practices 3,118

Community:

Prevention programs developed 55

New family support programs 60

Economic and community development programs established 49

Citizens demonstrating increased leadership 658

Statewide Impact Totals:

Youth:

Increased life skills

NUMBER DEMONSTRATING 13,984

Improved academic performance

NUMBER DEMONSTRATING 7,812

Expanded citizenship involvement

NUMBER DEMONSTRATING 6,695

Reduced use of drugs and alcohol

NUMBER DEMONSTRATING 4,830

Reduced judicial involvement

COMPARATIVE NUMBER REDUCED 924

Reduced incidence of violence

COMPARATIVE NUMBER REDUCED 1,150

Families:

Dollars saved/reallocated through effective money management $69,600

Reduced conflict through improved family and

interpersonal communication 3,500 families

Adoption of family coping and nurturing practices 3,023 families

Communities:

Prevention programs developed 55

New family support programs 60

Economic and community development programs established 49

Citizens demonstrating increased leadership 658

Volunteers/Value:

Youth 1,296 8,032 hours $95,600

Families 773 3,070 hours $30,700

Communities 433 1,826 hours $14,890

Success Stories:

Ashe County:

With a large number of children in the county in single family situations and the rise of delinquent and at-risk behavior among children in the lower grades, the need for a positive role model continues. 4-H Ashe Youth Connection, a Governors One-on-One program, works to recruit, train and put into service volunteers to work with these children. In 1998, nine volunteers contributed over 860 hours of volunteer time with nine at-risk youth. Three of these youth were at-risk of being removed from their home. Volunteers for Ashe Youth Connection assisted in keeping these youth in their homes, therefore saving the community over $100,000.00 in yearly costs for out-of-home placement --- not to mention the effort made to support in tact family situations.

Craven County:

4-H Camp Discovery, which was a six-week day camp, involved 60 inner city youth in grades K-5 and assisted them in learning more about themselves and their communities. Participants discovered the six pillars of character, possible career choices; and they learned how they could more positively effect their communities. Over $11,000 in grant funds were secured to implement the program. Over 50 collaborators invested over 3,900 hours to the program valued at over $39,000. Seventy-three percent of the campers said they felt that they knew more about themselves; 79 percent said they felt better about the choices they can make; and 70 percent said they felt they could make a difference in their communities. Work First participants were utilized as camp staff and as a result of their training, ten participants were placed in employment.

Granville County:

Court-involved youth need to learn effective decision making and conflict resolution skills while developing a sense of future. Through the 4-H BEST Community Service/ Restitution program, we are reaching these goals. It has been a banner year for 4-H BEST as more than 64 youth performed over 1,500 hours of community service. Using sites throughout the county, including Granville Medical Center and South Granville High School, youth complete their court assigned community service hours --- attempting to give back to the community what their crime took away. These youth also attended a conflict mediation/juvenile justice short course teaching youth the importance of settling conflict without the use of violence and gaining an understanding of juvenile law and the court system. The 4-H BEST program is an alternative to juvenile training school. Training school in North Carolina costs $40,000 per youth; 4-H BEST saved Granville County $2.56 million in 1998.

Currituck County:

During the last six months of the Currituck County 4-H/SOS (Support Our Students) Program, its tutoring component has shown a 150 percent increase in attendance and a 66 percent increase in classes offered. This resulted in 25 students raising their math grade by one to three letter grades, and an increase in their year-end math scores, an average of five points, on the developmental scale. It also has impacted Social Studies and English, by increasing their letter grade by an average of one letter grade, and an increase in their year-end reading score an average of five points, on the developmental scale. Finally, the impact of the tutoring classes has also resulted in an increase in attendance, completion of homework assignments, and a decrease in maladaptive behaviors during class. These accomplishments are measured by attendance records and as reported by teacher interview.

Families:

A Bertie County Work First participant has successfully moved from welfare dependence to stages of independence, thanks to the assistance of a Work First mentor. The participant, through the Empowering to Succeed Program, secured a job, opened a bank account, and purchased a used mobile home for herself and her five children. She is also learning the responsibilities of car ownership.

Financial management and behavior modification classes were conducted for 240 Work First and court-mandated parents in Durham County. The participants reported that they gained an increased level of understanding about how to develop and utilize a budget and how to reallocate resources to improve family living. All of the Work First participants stated that they had learned some basic skills, which would help them present themselves in a positive manner when seeking employment. Participants in Rockingham County's Family Resource Management Skills programs were taught basic money management. At the conclusion of the workshops, they demonstrated an increase in their knowledge of money management by scoring 30 percent better on the post-test than on the pre-test. Eighty-two percent of the participants reported that they would begin to prepare a family budget.

Communities:

Parents in the Franklin Court Community ACE Program have been involved in several advisory committee meetings to identify community issues. Child Care was identified as one of the most significant needs. Parents are now involved in the establishment of a community daycare operation within a vacant apartment unit. This unit is provided at no charge by the owner of the facility who views the daycare as contributing to the stability of the community. Parents are now more able to maintain employment; families are mutually supported and have developed increased feelings of community safety.

CEMP 19 TEAM

Co-Chairs: Thearon McKinney

Bettina Odom

Millie Bruton Ellen Smoak Eddie Locklear

Carolyn High Bob Williamson Robin Roper

Wayne Matthews Steve Lilly

Susan Jakes

CEMP # 20 - YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

Program Description:

CEMP 20 - Youth Development focuses on three major aspects of the 4-H program that contribute to the life skill and asset development of young people; the long term 4-H Unit/Club, 4-H School Enrichment Program and the 4-H Diverse Housing Program. Four major factors have been identified that contribute to the successful development of a child: social competence, problem solving, autonomy and sense of purpose and future. Those factors along with Search Institute's developmental assets are incorporated into 4-H experiences. Four-H club activities, presentations, record keeping, judging teams, school enrichment experiences, peer helper programs, community service projects and recognition programs are designed to give the participants an opportunity to develop the life skills/assets that any child will need to succeed in life.

Program Overview:

A major goal of 4-H Youth Development Program is to help young people participating in 4-H programs to develop life skills and assets that will allow them to become competent, caring, and responsible human beings. In 1998 emphasis was placed on helping young people improve their life skills/assets in the areas of communication skills, cooperation, empathy and caring, critical thinking and planning, and goal setting.

During 1998, over 221,000 young people between the ages of 5 and 19 were involved in 4-H programs with approximately 130,000 participants involved in 4-H club and other long term units, school enrichment and diverse housing programs. The positive development of young people through 4-H participation can be illustrated by the following results from select programs: 1. 44,628 youth increased their decision making skills, 2. 41,685 youth increased their communication skills, 3. 33,833 youth increased their awareness of community service, 4. 102,769 youth increase their knowledge in various curriculum areas, and 5. 48,000 increased their critical thinking skills. In addition, counties reported that as a result of 4-H community service projects their communities saved $537,597.

Number of Units Reporting Accomplishments:

Objective One: 91

Objective Two: 56

Objective Three: 30

Statewide Measures of Progress:

Objective one: Long term support systems will develop competent youth.

Agents in 91 counties reported the following number of youth in 4-H clubs and other long term 4-H experiences strengthened targeted life skills:

Increased awareness of community service 33,833

Increased communicated skills 33,607

Increased knowledge gained 102,769

Increased leadership 26,872

Increased decision making skills 86,159

Agents also reported that over 18,450 families had been actively involved 4-H.

Objective two: Youth involved in 4-H school enrichment program will demonstrate improved academic performance.

In 1998, 4-H agents in 56 counties reported training 2,790 teachers in the areas of curriculum content and program delivery process. After their training, teachers then returned to their class rooms and implemented the program. Approximately 97,000 students participated in 4-H school enrichment programs in 1998.

Objective four: Limited income youth residing in Diverse/Public Housing will increase life skill development.

Thirty 4-H agents reported working in diverse housing sittings with limited income youth to increase life skill development. They reported forming 56 new 4-H clubs for children 5 to 8 years old in addition to their programs for older youth. Youth participating in the reporting 4-H programs acquired or increased the following life skills:

Acquired decision making skills 3,821

Acquired skills to resist peer pressure 3,188

Defined aspirations 1,044

Acquired skills in conflict resolution 1,252

Statewide Impacts:

Objective one: Long term support systems will develop competent youth.

The impact of active participation in 4-H on young people is illustrated in the statistics below:

$424,884 saved by communities from 4-H community service projects

$668,557 scholarships received by 4-H'ers

$756,737 earned as a result of 4-H project work

Increased competencies in:

27,095 Managing relationships

41,685 Communication skills

44,628 Making decisions

45,160 Self-confidence

Objective two: Youth involved in 4-H school enrichment program will demonstrate improved academic performance.

The 4-H School Enrichment Program is designed to provide school children with hands-on learning experiences that will enrich their class instruction. Teachers reported that while participating in a school enrichment program their students improved:

22,782 class attendance (48,000 students)

18,642 homework completed (36,487 students)

19,682 quality of homework (39,847 students)

21,739 science grades (40,191 students)

Objective three: Limited income youth residing in Diverse/Public Housing will increase life skill development.

The programs for limited income youth residing in diverse housing focused on participants improving their resistance to negative peer pressure and improving their goal setting skills. Agents reported that 1579 young people improved their resistance to peer pressure while 1157 more clearly defined their aspirations. Of the youth ages 5 to 8, 1359 increased competency within their environment.

Volunteers Involved:

Seventeen thousand six hundred ninety seven (16,697) volunteers worked with young people in 4-H clubs, school enrichment programs, divers housing units, and other long term special interest activities. Their combined efforts total 250,932 hours for a value of $2,509,320. On average, volunteers committed 14 hours to their local 4-H program.

Success Stories:

While the statistics reported above illustrate the impact 4-H programs are having in the lives of youth, families and communities, success stories like the ones below make the impact come alive.

Gaston County: Public speaking is a widely held fear for adults. The more opportunity youth have to speak in front of a group the more comfortable he/she becomes in that role. This year 4-H conducted a four week Arts Camp for low income youth. The curriculum focus was on reading, writing and art while the life skills focus was on team work, innovative thinking, leadership, and communication skills. By the end of camp, one very shy camper was leading and presiding at the recognition ceremony for families, peers and school personnel. In her own word..."Since I have been coming to 4-h, I am not as afraid as I used to be. 4-H also taught me how to work in a group.

Rowan County: It is sometimes hard to measure the worth of 4-H in a person's life. A former Rowam County 4-H'er recently submitted a story to Tech Corp on the 4-H web site. Carrie wrote in her story, "Through 4-H I have learned many different things that really changed my life. I am thankful for all the hard work I did in 4-H because it gave me self-confidence and organizational skills. Her club leaders and the other adults in 4-H provided support for Carrie and the others in her club. She felt leaders were key to her increased self confidence and improved public speaking skills.

Wayne County: Many youth do not have the opportunity to experience the challenges and reward of community service. To address this need, Wayne County 4-H conducted a service learning project that involved 51 youth ages 12 and up. The participants received instruction in teaching techniques as well as content in four curriculum areas. After training, each participant committed to teach at least six hours with a youth audience. Those 4-H'ers performed over 1,100 hours of community service by teaching in 4-H summer camps, project days, after school programs and more. Some comments from the youth teachers were: "Teaching others has helped me put what I learned into practice." "By teaching others you learn more about yourself and others." "You learn to take responsibility and to be a leader when you teach others."

Randolph County: Down to Earth, an agriculture and environmental education program was introduced to youth in a 6-8 grade class. Students used the scientific method as an intellectual, hands-on learning process to stress critical thinking, reasoning, problem solving and cooperative learning. Not only did all the students gain knowledge of the basic principals of plant production and how to develop and test a hypothesis but 60% of the students exhibited a positive attitude toward learning and experiencing science through this project.

Narrative:

Active involvement in 4-H programs gives young people opportunities to develop life skills and assets that they will need to become competent, caring, and responsible human beings. Club activities, presentations, peer helper programs, community service projects, judging teams, school enrichment programs and recognition programs provide the settings for young people to improve their communication skills, learn how to work in a group, develop critical thinking skills, learn how to be a leader and learn to plan, problem solve and goal set.

In 1998, over 220,000 young people participated in a variety of 4-H programs. Agents reported that 17,697 volunteers provided guidance and support to 4-H'er, totaling 250,932 hours. These volunteers provided adult role models for youth that needed community support.

Participating in long term programs such a clubs and day camps helped 27,095 young people increase their ability to manage relationships; helped 41,685 young people improve their communication skills; helped 44,628 young people improve their decision making skills and helped 45,160 young people improve their self-confidence. In addition, many students participating in 4-H school enrichment programs improved their academic performance. Improvement was strongest in the areas of homework completed, improved quality of homework and improved science grades. Targeted programs for limited income youth residing in diverse housing focused on participants improving their resistance to negative peer pressure and improving their goal setting skills. Agents reported that 1579 young people improved their resistance to peer pressure while 1157 4-H'ers more clearly defined their aspirations.

While the statistics above illustrate the impact of 4-H programs on the lives of youth, families and communities, the true impact of this program is very difficult to measure. In fact, the results of participating in 4-H is not often see until the 4-H'er is an adult. Becoming a caring, competent, and responsible human being is a culmination of many life experiences. 4-H is an organization that is equipped to provide young people with many of those need life experiences.

CEMP 20 Committee:

Candace Goode, Co-chair

Diane Gibson, Co-chair

Travis Burke

Eve Kindley

Trevella Free

Shirley Rouse

Ed Maxa

Sharon Rowland

Lou Otto

Steve West

Harriet Edwards