Progress 09/01/18 to 08/31/22
Outputs
Target Audience:The Kansas AgrAbility Project (KAP) is a partnership between Kansas State University, Southeast Kansas Independent Living, and Assistive Technology for Kansans at the University of Kansas, project management is balanced among the three partners. KAP's primary purpose is to directly assist Kansas farmers, farm employees, and farm family members who have become injured or have an activity-limiting health condition/limitation to remain actively engaged in production agriculture for as long as they choose. In addition, the Project actively promotes education and networking among rural and disability service organizations to increase capacity for serving farmers with disabilities and to promote understanding around challenges faced by those farmers in an effort to break down service barriers and promote successful outcomes. Changes/Problems:Change in Principal Investigator from Joe Harner to Ed Brokesh due to Harner's retirement. Brokesh has been involved in the project since 2018. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Southeast Kansas Independent Living, and Assistive Technology for Kansans at the University of Kansas provided training to field staff. Field Personnel Lesa Clubine-Whitson, SE & SC, Assistive Technology Ag Specialist, 6 months, .5 FTE Cassie Ramon, NE & NC, Assistive Technology Ag Specialist, 12 months, .5 FTE Karin Rasmussen, NW & SW, Assistive Technology Ag Specialist, 12 months, .5 FTE Project Coordinator attended the NTW in Madison, Wisconsin, NAP Western Regional Conference in Montana; International Society for Agriculture Safety and Health (ISASH) Conference, monthly NTW webinars, Women Managing the Farm Conference, KSRE Annual Conference, How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Results are typically disseminated through exhibits and conferences, education and training opportunities, our partners, independent living centers, cooperative extension networks, social media, and website updates. Due to the pandemic, outreach was reached by hybrid methods and attending virtual conferences and maintaining contact with partners, industry, extension and agri-business, social media and website updates. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Goal 1-Education-Provide learning activities that focus on accommodating disability in agriculture while avoiding secondary injury Presentations -3 half-day workshops to 42 KS Rehab counselors. Topics-prevention of secondary injury, back & joint protection, hearing amplification, vision supports, arthritis & memory -4 State Farm Show booth reaching over 1000 individuals; shared booth with LyfeLyfts -Workshops for SAVE Farm (Servicemember Agricultural Vocational Education) on proper use of gardening tools/ergonomics/ag health & safety/avoiding secondary injury/hearing protection/memory supports/working outside in the elements/respiratory protection/AgrAbility services throughSRAPS network, 50 individuals -16 presentations about the AgrAbility network, mission & services/rugged adapted mobility solutions/low vision; lifts for trucks/machinery/arthritis/progressive disease/accommodating limitations. Attended by 364 individuals -2 outreach efforts to the KS One Stop Employment Center staff targeting case studies of people with disabilities/chronic health conditions who were able to continue their role in production agriculture -10 training sessions to 232 professionals who have contact with farmers as part of their duties KAP Services, Case Studies & Veteran Resources-6 Veterans Administration (VA) VR & employment staff. Ag Production with an Amputation: 15 physical & occupational therapists Low Vision Solutions for Farming-9 low vision specialists from private rehab/2 at VA Progressive disease-preparing for change-16 caregivers/14 farmers Arthritis Supports for Farming/Ranching-63 farmers/ranchers at 3 events Farm Tools & Ergonomics-45 small growers/2 VR counselors Arthritis & secondary injury prevention-19 farmers/ranchers -Presented "Taking Care of All Generations on the Farm" at NTW, 48 attendees & NTW Encore to 70 individuals via Zoom -Presented "Making Lemonade Out of Lemons" at NTW with Maine, Alaska & Ohio SRAPs, 16 attendees & presented an Encore session to 20 people via Zoom -Presented "Protect, Preserve & Plan through Change" at the KS Farm Bureau Annual Conference, attended by 25 members -Presented "Head Shoulders Knees & Toes-Making Your Body More Comfortable While Working on the Farm" at the Women Managing the Farm (WMF) conference, attended by 30 individuals/over 150 attendees visited the booth -Presented "Protect, Preserve & Plan Through Change" at a hybrid extension program, "Risk Management Skills for KS Women in Agriculture" at 30 sites across KS/200 people attended -Presented "Protect, Preserve & Plan Through Change" to 150 members of the SC District of KS Farm Management Assoc -Dr. Carla Wilhite & Dr. Clayton Lange conducted a workshop for OTs/PTs/rehab specialists/VR counselors/others to learn more about the culture of farming/ranching & strategies for effective on-site assessments. Workshop provided 5.5 CEUs for OTs & PTs, 42 individuals attended -Coordinator presented QPR Gatekeeper Training at the NAP Western Regional Conference in MT -Hosted a farm tour with a customer to share the upgrades & mods he made to his cattle operation. 25 member tour group included staff from SAVE Farm/Army National Guard Solider & Family Readiness Group & the Resilience, Risk Reduction & Suicide Prevention & Support Services/Farm Rescue/KS VR/Ft. Riley Army Solider Recovery Unit Soldiers,OTs/PTs & potential KAP customers -Kansas/Ohio/Alaska AgrAbility collaborated to write a Self-Determined 4-H project: Disability Advocacy & Awareness, which has been published on the Ohio State University Extension 4-H website. Goal 2-Networking-Increase opportunities for sharing information, providing services, acquiring funding, increasing service capacity & developing partnerships -Coordinator is a member of the executive committee & publicity chair for WMF -Staff participated in the NAP Evaluation, Marketing Media Community of Interest committees and the Planning Committee for NTW -Coordinator is a member of the KS State Rehabilitation Council -Coordinator is a member of the KSRE Transdisciplinary Team for Stress & Resiliency that provides resources across KS to assist residents in dealing with stress, funded by USDA FRAN -Collaborated with NAP to host a regional training workshop, the 2day event highlighted state, regional & national resources -Participated in the NAP Virtual State Fair -Participated in NAP All Staff calls & made monthly contributions to NAP e-Note -Continued participation in the McGill Quality of Life survey to the NAP Evaluation Committee, KS has provided 83 matched pre- & post- surveys and reported demographic data to the NAP for the annual customer demographics report Goal-Assistance-Provide individualized consultative services that increase the likelihood that KAP customers & their farm business experience success -Maintained toll free/statewide phone number for Kansansto contact AT Ag Specialist in their geographic area -Conducted on-site farm assessments -Helped farmers who needed funding assistance identify possible sources of funding -Provided demos for AT devices -Provided follow-up assistance after devices were acquired to ensure they meet the farmer's needs -Participated in a KU BREAK Program (undergrad Capstone project) that was tasked with assisting a client to address the barrier of providing water to pastured cattle with limited water access. Students, client & staff developed solutions and visited client to assemble and present the successful solution -Results: Served 69 customers. 31 (45%) owner/operators; 5 owner/operators (16%) were female. Owner/operators identified as working full-time (43%); part-time (65%), occasionally/seasonally (26%) & not at all (10%). Served 6 spouse/partners, 2 employees, 7 individuals who were not active on the farm at time, 5 dependents & 15 children under the age of 18. Despite the identified role on the farm, 21 customers reported full-time work (30%); 14 part-time (20%); 20 occasional/seasonal (29%) & 14 reported none (20%). Staff assisted customers with public & private funders to acquire $71,250 of equipment Goal-Marketing: Conduct an integrated campaign of awareness suitable for all audiences -Website, www.agrability.ksu.edu, includes videos, assistive technology product information, tip sheets, links to recommended devices & partner organizations -Social media presence maintained through Facebook, Twitter & Instagram -Public awareness was increased through the following outlets -Agriculture Today radio/podcast segments on Managing Stress: Tips & Resources; Farming with Arthritis; Safety Tips for Working in the Kansas Heat -SAVE Farm monthly newsletter articles, Farming with Back Injury, Stress Management-Tips & Resources, Visit & Demonstration by LifeLyfts, circulation to 104 community members -Truck lift demo by LifeLyfts at SAVE Farm for students & board members resulted in news article in Grass & Grain newspaper -Advertisement in the KSU Agriculturalist Magazine, Fall 2021, produced by Ag Comm students & distributed to students, faculty, staff & alumni Presentation to Ft. Riley Solider Recovery Unit for the 2022 National Agriculture Day Impact Provided direct assistance to 69 customers who were experiencing limitations from disability or illness with on-farm assistance, technical resources, or further referral so they could continue to be productive in their chosen profession of agriculture. Staff completed 175 goals for farmers, ranchers & other eligible customers in the past year. Over $71,000 of equipment was funded because of staff collaborate with farmers, ranchers, and public & private funders. Utilized partner programs to demonstrate & loan equipment & participate in a re-use program of re-furbished equipment
Publications
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Progress 09/01/20 to 08/31/21
Outputs
Target Audience:Primarily farmers, farm employees, farm family members, veterans and women in farming. Education targeted at rural medical professionals, Kansas Rehabilitation Services (vocational rehabilitation) and extension personnel. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Field Personnel Lesa Clubine-Whitson, SE & SC, Assistive Technology Ag Specialist, 12 months, .5 FTE Cassie Ramon, NE & NC, Assistive Technology Ag Specialist, 12 months, .5 FTE Karin Rasmussen, NW & SW, Assistive Technology Ag Specialist, 12 months, .5 FTE Kansas AgrAbility Management provided training to KAP staff on the following subjects: Small Business Planning, Farm Analysts Services, Kansas Ag Mediation Services and utility/energy conservation services and tools; hand-held magnification devices; Eye gaze and head array switch access; digital devices for communication, memory, and telehealth; Current Positioning and seating solutions; sit to stand lift options; smart home solutions for home and work sites. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Results are typically disseminated through exhibits and conferences, education and training opportunities, our partners, independent living centers, cooperative extension networks, social media, and website updates. Due to the pandemic, in person activities were limited so outreach was maintained by attending vitural conferences and maintaining contact with partners, industry, extension and agri-business, social media and website updates. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?During the remainder of Year 3 and Year 4 Kansas AgrAbility will continue to follow the outline provided in the initial application by focusing on activities that help meet the stated objectives of serving farmers, farm family members, and farm employees through programs of Assistance, Education, Networking, and Marketing. KAP will continue to collaborate with partners to offer education and training via Zoom and in person as allowed. Including: Education Goal 1: Continue to conduct training to VR counselors, Veteran Administration VR&E offices, One Stop Employment Center staff, quarterly hands-on training to new Kansas Rehabilitation Services VR counselors including hands-on AT equipment demonstrations to 5 Veterans Administration VR&E offices. Goal 2: Increase knowledge of AgrAbility services amount rehabilitation professions by adding case studies in education materials, to include studies of current clients utilizing precision technology, SCI/mobility, and livestock handling solutions. Rehab specialists that KAP partners closely with include the Dole VA Hospital and other major rehab centers serving rural regions of the state. Goal 3: KAP will continue to work with the Ft. Riley Warrior Transition Battalion occupational therapists to provide soldiers with specific education materials as needed to support their interests. Staff will continue to work with SAVE Farm on their Wellness Committee and provide information and evaluation of onsite safety and accommodations as needed. Goal 4: KAP will identify and submit materials that fit an eXtension Community of Practice and work to build awareness of the program's services and continue to educate Kansas extension personnel about KAP services available to their community members. Networking Goal 1: KAP Project Coordinator and AT Ag Specialist will continue to develop partnerships with agriculture businesses and member organizations, including Kansas Farmers Union, Kansas Corn, Kansas Black Farmers Association, and Women Managing the Farm. KAP provides articles for member publications and will continue to attend and present at conferences, annual meetings and workshops sponsored by its partners. KAP collaborates with Ft. Riley WTB, Farmer Veteran Coalition and SAVE Farm on events to promote accessible agriculture, Year 3's bus tour was cancelled due to Covid-19, plans to reschedule in Year 4. The bus tour to KAP customer farms and planning an accessible truck/mobility rodeo and adaptive hunting/fishing. When re-scheduled, KAP staff will resume attending the weekly SAVE Farm bus tours that were discontinued due to Covid-19. Attending the tours allows staff to build relationships with WTB personnel and soldiers. Goal 2: KAP Management will continue to create and update informational materials through K-State Extension and Research, materials are posted on the project's website, posted on social media, and shared with partner organizations. Staff will continue to solicit and respond to opportunities to present KAP materials and advice through presentations to agriculture related organizations. Sustainability remains a focus for KAP and the management team will continue to pursue payments from vocational rehabilitation services and to seek additional funders. Goal 3: KAP will continue to pursue opportunities to collaborate with NAP and SRAPs. KAP continues to participate in NAP Evaluation Impact Committee, the NTW Conference and Planning Committee, contribute to NAP publications, and will host an OT/PT seminar with Nebraska and Missouri during Year 4, which is rescheduled from Year 3. Assistance Goal 1: KAP will continue to provide individualized consultative services that increase the likelihood that customers and their farm business experience success. KAP accomplishes this by making referrals to appropriate resources throughout the state, providing materials to customers by way of informational packets, tip sheets, mental health supports, veteran resources, women and farming networks as well as demonstrating and loaning equipment and devices. Goal 2: KAP will continue to provide comprehensive onsite assessments using the NAP Assessment Tool, staff visits the customers and identifies barriers and the solutions to allow the farmer to continue producing as long as he/she would like. Assistance is also provided to family members and employees of farmers. Goals for staff include working with 30 new, 40 ongoing and 20 reopened cases throughout the year. Assessments have been modified due to Covid-19 and may continue to be conducted via telephone, Zoom, emails and satellite imaging. Goal 3: Staff will continue to develop and implement a comprehensive, customer-directed plan to acquire the needed assistive technology and modifications to allow customers to successfully continue or return to their role in production agriculture. Planning often includes funding justifications, staff assists customers in eligibility determinations for public and private sources of funding. Goal 4: The management team and staff will continue to conduct follow-up to determine if the solutions discussed met the customer's needs. KAP continues to participate in the pre/post-program evaluation surveys with Colorado for QOL Impact Evaluation Study. Marketing Goal 1: KAP Project Coordinator remains responsible for maintaining and updating an accessible website, the site is updated regularly with videos, tip sheets and resources available to customers and the public. Goal 2: Production of accessible videos, including a customer featured video. Videos are shared on the website, on social media and included in presentations, goals include 500 views per video, annually. Goal 3: KAP management staff will produce press releases, tip sheets, and conduct radio interviews to continue to promote the project. Goals include utlets for print/electronic press releases, 4 radio interviews.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
The Kansas AgrAbility Project (KAP) provided direct assistance to 45 farmers who were experiencing limitations from disability or illness with on-farm assistance, technical resources, or referral so they can continue to be productive in agriculture. Staff completed 36 goals for customers. Over $21,800 of equipment was funded as a result of staff work with farmers, ranchers, public & private funders Staff created awareness of services by educating over 2,020 health care professionals, state agency personnel, farmers, active-duty military/veterans through educational presentations. Staff regularly participates in industry groups, KSU & K-State Research & Extension (KSRE) events & programming to increase knowledge & capabilities of services Goal 1-Education-Provide learning activities that focus on accommodating disability in agriculture while avoiding secondary injury -Due to the pandemic, only one in-person event was conducted, staff reached 625 farmers, ranchers, family members, extension staff, equipment dealers & rural Kansans at the 4-State Farm Show -Conducted 16 educational presentations to 616 individuals, topics included low vision & hearing technology; memory & daily living supports; arthritis; progressive disease & supports for new producers & veterans. Virtual outreach to No Wrong Door Aging & Disability Resource Center focusing on production agriculture/agri-businesses, 103 staff attended -Training Workshops--9 sessions reached 279 professionals & 115 farmers/ranchers & other rural Kansans, topics included: KAP Services & Case Studies to 129 vocational rehabilitation counselors, KAP Services, Case Studies & Veteran Resources to 24 Veterans Administration vocational rehab & employment staff, Ag production with Traumatic Brain Injury-AT Solutions for Cognitive Supports to 31 PT and OT, Low Vision & Hearing Solutions for Farming to 14 low vision specialists, Balance, Mobility & Lighting: Staying Safe on the Farm to 47 farmers, ranchers, family members, Taking Care of All Generations on the Farm (smarttechnology) to 68 female farmers, agribusiness operators and 27 rural providers Goal 2-Networking: Increase opportunities for sharing information, providing services, acquiring funding, increasing service capacity & developing partnerships -Project Coordinator (PC) is a member of the executive committee for Women Managing the Farm Conference -PC participates on the Planning Committee for the NTW & staff routinely participates in the virtual NTW sessions -Staff on NAP Committees: Evaluation; Marketing Media Community of Interest; Media Tool Kit sub-committee with NAP, PA & IL, to consolidate marketing assets throughout SRAPs; 4-H education materials collaboration with OH, NC & AK SRAPs; fact sheet collaboration with multiple SRAPs -Staff participated in NAP All Staff conference calls & made monthly contributions to NAP e-Note -One of 13 states reporting results from the McGill Quality of Life survey to the NAP Evaluation Committee. To date KS has provided 92 matched pre- & post- surveys -Reported demographic data to NAP for annual customer demographics report -PC attended virtual conferences for Farmer Veteran Coalition & American Farm Bureau -Staff monthly Zoom calls include public & private agri-business to educate staff on products & services -PC serves on the Wellness Committee of SAVE Farm (Servicemember Agricultural Vocational Education) -Participated in the NAP Virtual State Fair using educational videos shared on social media -PC is a member of the KSRE Transdisciplinary Team for Stress & Resiliency focused on providing resources across KS to assist residents with financial stressors, mental health & fostering family resilience, funded by the USDA Farm & Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRAN) Goal 3-Assistance: Provide individualized consultative services that increase the likelihood that KAP customers & their farm business experience success -Maintains toll free number for easy customer contact -Provides project contact information, videos, tip sheets & general information on the project web site -Conducted virtual farm assessments. AT Ag Specialists stopped meeting farmers & ranchers onsite in March 2020, due to pandemic. Staff used virtual meeting and mapping platforms for general intakes, walking tours, terrain and operations layout and evaluation -Helped farmers who needed funding assistance identify possible sources of funding -Provided demonstration for assistive devices -Coordinated access & deployment of refurbished durable medical equipment through the KS Equipment Reuse Program -Provided follow-up assistance after assistive devices were acquired to make sure they meet the farmer's needs -Collaborated with University of Kansas Biomedical & Rehabilitation Engineering Advancement in Kansas Program; student designed, remote-control system to allow KAP customer to operate watering tank valve without leaving his vehicle Results: Staff served 45 farmers, ranchers/family members/employees this year. Further analysis of the customers served: Customer Role: 11 (24.44%) owner/operators; 6 (13.33%) spouse/partners; 2 (6.66%) employee; 6 (13.33%) no longer actively farming/ranching; & 20 (20.73%) children under 18 years. Time spent working on the operation: 12 (26.66%) full-time; 14 (27.77%) part-time; 11 (24.44%) occasional/seasonal; & 14 (31.11%) none. Gender: 20 (44.44%) male; 25 (55.55%) female. Ethnicity: 41 white, 2 Hispanic, 1 African American, & 1 Asian. Operations reflected KS production: field/grain crops, livestock - particularly cattle, & hay. Disability analysis indicates that most customers have disabilities not related to agriculture (82.3%). Disabilities that occurred due to agriculture were linked to livestock handling, machinery accidents, & repetitive stress. The most common disabilities were related to aging including arthritis, hearing, vision, & health conditions such as diabetes, cancer, heart diseases, & kidney disease -Prioritized reaching female farmers this year. Of the 45 customers served, 25 were female, 5 were owner/operators & 7 identified as spouse/partners. Fifteen of the females indicated they worked on the operation: 4 full-time; 6 part-time; & 5 occasional. Ten indicated they did not have a role on the operation; 6 were minor children, 4 retired from their previous role. KAP will continue to focus on Women in Agriculture state & regional events Goal 4-Marketing: Conduct an integrated campaign of awareness suitable for all audiences -Website updates to www.agrability.ksu.edu, updates include videos, AT product information, tip sheets, links to recommended devices & partner organizations -Social media presence maintained through posts to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, & Pinterest. Content related to KAP services, ag safety, accessible agriculture, KAP partners, events & sharing posts from SRAP, NIFA & NAP -Public awareness was increased through publication of articles & advertisements in the following publications: Farming with Back Injury, SAVE Farm monthly newsletter, circulation 104, KAP was sourced in a KSRE article titled Rural Areas of Kansas are "Mental Health Deserts", by Bradley Dirks. News story on local CBS affiliate featuring KSU Biological & Agricultural Engineering students during a demo of a Life Essentials truck-mounted lift system. Advertisement in the KSU Agriculturalist Magazine, Fall 2020 & Spring 2021, produced by Ag Comm students. Presentation to Ft. Riley soldiers in the Warrior Transition Battalion for 2021 National Agriculture Day. Presentation is an annual event & included KAP partner, SAVE Farm
Publications
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Progress 09/01/19 to 08/31/20
Outputs
Target Audience:Primarily farmers, farm employees, farm family members, veterans and women in farming. Education targeted at rural medical professionals, Kansas Rehabilitation Services (vocational rehabilitation) counselors, Kansas Workers Compensation employees and networked services to extension personnel, members of Kansas Farmers Union, Kansas Black Farmers Association members and college students majoring in agriculture and engineering. Changes/Problems:PI Restructure Senior/Key Personnel Dr. John Slocombe, Principal Investigator/Project Director plans to retire effective July 31, 2020. KAP has submitted a request to USDA-NIFA contact Brad Rein to restructure the PI position to Dr. Joseph P Harner, III, Department Head of the Biological and Agricultural Engineering Department, effective August 1, 2020. Furthermore, KAP has requested that Dr. Dan Flippo be added as a Co-Principal Investigator. Current Co-Principal Investigators Ed Brokesh and Shari Coatney will continue in their current position. Dr. Harner will be responsible for overall management, documentation, and reporting activities including personnel supervision, financial accountability, and sub-contract oversight. He will lead the KAP Management Team which provides oversight for all goals and objectives. Harner is not asking for salary from the project and will dedicate time as needed as part of his current research. Dr. Brokesh, Assistant Professor and Professional Engineer, is responsible for classroom projects which includes the KSU Senior Design class team and will continue to provide technical expertise to the project as well as serve as the liaison with KSU, the BAE Department and K-State Research and Extension. His salary in Year 3 will be based on 7.11% of his time and he will contribute added time as needed through his research appointment. Co-PI Brokesh has cross trained with Slocombe and Larson for Years 1 and 2 of this grant period and will continue to cross train with Harner during Years 3 and 4. Dr. Flippo brings his expertise in design and automation to the project, including his participation with BotsKC as a board member, a STEM based robotics competition where he offers mentorship, judging and facilitation. Flippo's emphasis on robotics will be utilized to assist clients and offer expertise with KAP's case studies and education related to precision technology, he will cross train with Harner and Brokesh, his salary from the project is set based on 5.18% as Co-PI and he will utilize current research funding to dedicate further time as needed. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Field Personnel Lesa Clubine, SE & SC, Assistive Technology Ag Specialist, 12 months, .5 FTE Cassie Ramon, NE & NC, Assistive Technology Ag Specialist, 12 months, .5 FTE Karin Rasmussen, NW & SW, Assistive Technology Ag Specialist, 12 months, .5 FTE Kansas AgrAbility Management provided training to KAP staff on the following subjects: Creating accessible documents (Word, PowerPoints, PDFs); Orcam vision aid for reading, face recognition, navigation, etc.; communication devices to support individuals with strokes or degenerative diseases; accessible gardening and raised bed solutions; ATV reviews for accessibility;precision agriculture to support farmers/ranchers with disabilities; lift mechanisms for trucks and farm machinery;assistive listening devices; funding justifications for third party funders; writing case studies for Kansas Vocational Rehabilitation staff;Technology supports for transition-age youth exploring careers in agri-business, and cleaning and sterilizing equipment used in demonstrations, device loans, and assessments. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Results are primarily disseminated through exhibits and conferences, education and training opportunities, our partners, independent living centers, cooperative extension networks, social media, U.S. mail and website updates. KAP staff created a 25 ½ x 11 ½ 2019 Year in Review, infographic poster to summarize KAP's mission, assistance results and customer demographics. The poster was shared with 400 organization offices throughout the state, including Kansas Conservation Districts, KSRE County and District Offices, USDA Farm Service Agency Offices, KAP partners and other agricultural stakeholders and organizations. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Prospectus - Plan of Work Due to Covid-19 many opportunities for outreach have been cancelled or postponed. As directed by state and local authorities, for the remainder of Year 2, Year 3 and Year 4, staff will continue to be innovative in providing support to customers in a safe manner. KAP will continue to collaborate with partners to offer education and training via Zoom and other platforms as needed. Networking and marketing will continue through virtual meetings, electronic publications, and social media. KAP will continue to follow the project's original objects. Including: Education Goal 1: Continue to conduct training to VR counselors, Veteran Administration VR&E offices, One Stop Employment Center staff, quarterly hands-on training to new Kansas Rehabilitation Services VR counselors including hands-on AT equipment demonstrations to 5 Veterans Administration VR&E offices. Goal 2: Increase knowledge of AgrAbility services amount rehabilitation professions by adding case studies in education materials, to include studies of current clients utilizing precision technology, SCI/mobility, and livestock handling solutions. Rehab specialists that KAP partners closely with include the Dole VA Hospital and other major rehab centers serving rural regions of the state. Goal 3: KAP will continue to work with the Ft. Riley Warrior Transition Battalion occupational therapists to provide soldiers with specific education materials as needed to support their interests. Goal 4: KAP will identify and submit materials that fit an eXtension Community of Practice and work to build awareness of the program's services, and continue to educate Kansas extension personnel about KAP services available to their community members. Networking Goal 1: KAP Project Coordinator and AT Ag Specialist will continue to develop partnerships with agriculture businesses and member organizations, including Kansas Farmers Union, Kansas Corn, Kansas Black Farmers Association, and Women Managing the Farm. KAP provides articles for member publications and will continue to attend and present at conferences, annual meetings and workshops sponsored by its partners. KAP collaborates with Ft. Riley WTB, Farmer Veteran Coalition and SAVE Farm on events to promote accessible agriculture, Year 3 includes a bus tour to KAP customer farms and planning an accessible truck/mobility rodeo and adaptive hunting/fishing. KAP staff will resume attending the weekly SAVE Farm bus tours that were discontinued due to Covid-19. Attending the tours allows staff to build relationships with WTB personnel and soldiers. Goal 2: KAP Management will continue to create and update informational materials through K-State Extension and Research, materials are posted on the project's website, posted on social media, and shared with partner organizations. Staff will continue to solicit and respond to opportunities to present KAP materials and advice through presentations to agriculture related organizations. Sustainability remains a focus for KAP and the management team will continue to pursue payments from vocational rehabilitation services and to seek additional funders. Goal 3: KAP will continue to pursue opportunities to collaborate with NAP and SRAPs. KAP continues to participate in NAP Evaluation Impact Committee, the NTW Conference and Planning Committee, contribute to NAP publications, and will host an OT/PT seminar with Nebraska and Missouri during Year 3. Assistance Goal 1: KAP will continue to provide individualized consultative services that increase the likelihood that customers and their farm business experience success. KAP accomplishes this by making referrals to appropriate resources throughout the state, providing materials to customers by way of informational packets, tip sheets, mental health supports, veteran resources, women and farming networks as well as demonstrating and loaning equipment and devices. Goal 2: KAP will continue to provide comprehensive onsite assessments using the NAP Assessment Tool, staff visits the customers and identifies barriers and the solutions to allow the farmer to continue producing as long as he/she would like. Assistance is also provided to family members and employees of farmers. Goals for staff include working with 30 new, 40 ongoing and 20 reopened cases throughout the year. Assessments have been modified due to Covid-19 and may continue to be conducted via telephone, Zoom, emails and satellite imaging. Goal 3: Staff will continue to develop and implement a comprehensive, customer-directed plan to acquire the needed assistive technology and modifications to allow customers to successfully continue or return to their role in production agriculture. Planning often includes funding justifications, staff assists customers in eligibility determinations for public and private sources of funding. Goal 4: The management team and staff will continue to conduct follow-up to determine if the solutions discussed met the customer's needs. KAP continues to participate in the pre/post-program evaluation surveys with Colorado for QOL Impact Evaluation Study. Marketing Goal 1: KAP Project Coordinator remains responsible for maintaining and updating an accessible website, the site is updated regularly with videos, tip sheets and resources available to customers and the public. Goal 2: Production of accessible videos featuring hand tools, home automation and accessible recreation are included in Year 3's plan to expand KAP's video library. Videos are shared on the website, on social media and included in presentations, goals include 500 views per video, annually. Goal 3: KAP management staff will produce press releases, tip sheets, and conduct radio interviews to continue to promote the project. Goals include 30 outlets for print/electronic press releases, 4 radio interviews.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Goal 1 Education-Provide learning activities that focus on accommodating disability in agriculture while avoiding secondary injury -Staffed 6 interactive booths at farm shows reaching 1,555 farmers/family members/extension staff/equip dealers/rural Kansans -Conducted 26 presentations about KAP's mission/services/cattle handling/rugged adapted mobility solutions/precision tech/low vision/lifts for trucks/machinery/arthritis/ progressive disease/accommodating limitations/supports for new producers/veterans, attended by 438 -Virtual outreach to 47 KS One Stop Employment Ctr staff -Educational handouts for education/training sessions/social media, outputs include: What is AgrAbility? Aug 2019/Safety Tips for Farming w/ a Back Injury or Back Problem, Sept 2019/Safety Tips for Farming w/ Arthritis, Sept 2019/Staying Healthy in the Elements, Feb 2020 -Training-15 workshops-183 professionals w/ regular contact w/ farmers, 115 farmers/rural Kansans, 15 female farmers, 29 vocational rehab counselors, 20 VA vocational rehab staff/admin, 23 PT/OT, 7 low vision specialists, 18 KSRE agents Goal 2 Networking-Increase opportunities for sharing information/providing services/ acquiring funding/increasing service capacity/developing partnerships -Project Coord serves on the planning/publicity for Women Managing the Farm Conf & planning comm for the NTW -Staff participated in NAP Comm-Evaluation, Marketing Media COI & the Media Tool Kit sub-comm w/ NAP, PA & IL -Staff joined NAP All Staff calls/contributes to NAP e-Note -KAP is 1of 13 states reporting McGill Quality of Life surveys to the NAP Eval Comm. KS provided 83 matched pre/post-surveys -KAP reported customer demographic data to NAP for its annual report -Project Coord is a member of the KSRE Stress & Resiliency Team, part of USDA Farm & Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) -KAP joined Kansas Farmers Union to visit NE KS farms, tours attended by 50 participants/presenters included members of KS Farmer Vet Coalition/KS Beginning Farmers Coalition/KS Center for Sustainable Ag & Alternative Crops -Staff actively participated in SAVE Farm tours held each Friday in summer/fall to introduce agricultural production to beginning farmers/veterans -Presented to campus student groups about KAP & how students can share and utilize information w/ their current & future communities -KAP reignited their connection w/ Kansas Black Farmers Association and made a presentation at their annual meeting -KAP is a resource of the KS Ag Stress Resources Network, funded by FRSAN -Staff participated in "Kansas Night" hosted by the Kansas Assoc of USDA FSA County Office Employees, 200+ FSA Agents from the US -Partnered w/ KSU BAE Student Helwig Farms ¼ Scale Tractor Team at the Topeka Farm Show -Project Coord connected w/ a Fellow from the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders, who is also the Disability Inclusion Associate w/ the African Union Commission in Ethiopia. They visited SAVE Farm's beekeeping/honey facility, the Fellow plans to return to Africa & start a bee program w/ women w/ limitations Goal 3 Assistance-Provide individualized consultative services that increase the likelihood that KAP customers & their farm business experience success -Maintained toll free number for residents to contact staff -Conducted on-site farm assessments. As of March 2020, due to Covid-19, staff has utilized telephone/video chat/aerial photography to assist current/future clients -Assisted farmers with funding as needed -Demonstrated AT devices to customers -Access/deployment of refurbished durable medical equipment through the KS Equip Reuse Program -Follow-up after devices were acquired to confirm they meet farmer's needs Results-Staff served 82 farmers/family members/employees in Yr2. Details-Customer Role-39 (47.56%) owner/operators; 9 (10.98%) spouse/partners; 1 (1.22%) employee; 2 (2.44%) seasonal workers; 9 (10.98%) no longer actively farming; 17 (20.73%) children under 18 yrs; 5 (6.10%) dependent adults; Time spent working on the operation-29 (35.37%) full-time; 12 (14.63%) part-time; 21 (25.61%) occasional/seasonal; 20 (24.39%) none; Gender-53 (64.63%) male; 29 (35.36%) female; Ethnicity-customers identified as 75 white, 2 Hispanic, 1 African American, 4 declined to answer; Operations include production-field/grain crops/ livestock-particularly cattle/hay. There is an increase in dairy operations/small growers of vegetable crops/agri-businesses in the past 2 yrs; Analysis indicates that most clients have disabilities unrelated to agriculture (87.80%). Disabilities related to agriculture were linked to livestock/machinery/repetitive stress, most common disabilities related to aging including arthritis/hearing/vision/health conditions such as diabetes/cancer/heart & kidney disease KAP prioritized reaching female farmers this yr, of the 82 customers served, 29 were female, 4 were owner/operators (13.79%), 9 identified as spouse/partners (31.03%). 17 females indicated they worked on the operation. 4 (13.79%) full-time; one part-time (3.45%), 12 (41.38%) seasonal. 12 (41.38%) did not have a role on the operation; 8 minor children, 2 retired, 1 was a seriously ill spouse & 1 dependent adult. KAP will continue to focus on Women in Ag events Goal 4 Marketing-Conduct an integrated campaign of awareness suitable for all audience -Website updates to www.agrability.ksu.edu include page banners/videos/testimonials/tip sheets/ links to devices/partner organizations. Social media presence through posts to Facebook/Twitter/Instagram/Pinterest. Content related to KAP services/ag safety/accessible agriculture/partners/events/sharing posts from SRAP/NIFA/NAP -Awareness increased through publication of articles/advertisements: When Farming Is Your First Love, Farmers & Ranchers Winter 2020, circulation 11,064/Charolais Edge Spring 2020, circulation 8,679; Kansas AgrAbility, KSU BAE Dept, College of Eng, "The link" magazine, Fall 2019, circulation 1,500 staff/alumni/industry partners; The Kansas AgrAbility Project, Kansas Farmers Union Kansas Kontact, 2019, circulation 3,000+ members/media/government contacts/partners; Kansas AgrAbility Project, Grass Roots, Montgomery County Conservation District, Fall 2019, 600 members; Advertisement in the KSU Agriculturist Magazine, Fall 2019/Spring 2020, to KSU students/faculty/staff/alumni; Kansas Angus Assoc social media post, 3,000 followers, Sept 2019 & complimentary advertisement in Kansas Angus Assoc magazine, Jan 2020, 2,000 members; Kansas Livestock Assoc Facebook Post, 12,000 followers; Cover letter/NAP 2019 Harvest newsletter to KSU Colleges of Ag & Eng Deans & Dept Heads; Email from PI/Project Coord to KSRE staff, 500 recipients; KSU Ag Comm & Journalism Dept included KAP in its Spring 2020 Capstone Project. KSRE Better Kansas Blog featured KAP in its bi-weekly series, distribution via email/Twitter/media outlets through KSU/KSRE listserv, March 2020; new trifold brochure to be used throughout state/regional education/training/networking events; 2019 Year in Review, Feb 2020, infographic poster to summarize KAP's mission/assistance results/customer demographics, shared with 300 offices throughout the state, including KS Conservation Districts/KSRE County offices/USDA FSA Offices; a bulletin board flyer to be used by staff as a leave behind at rural businesses; exhibit updates include table runners/table-top banners/adapted hand tools/health apps/technology related to arthritis/vision/hearing/working in the cold/heat. Staff also uses a spinning wheel/trivia games to engage attendees
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Progress 09/01/18 to 08/31/19
Outputs
Target Audience:Farmers, farm employees, farm family members, rural medical professionals, veterans, Kansas Rehabilitation Services (vocational rehabilitation). Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?
Nothing Reported
How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Results are primarily disseminated through existing Independent Living Center and Cooperative Extension networks through web site updates and social media. What has been done: Website: http://www.agrability.ksu.edu/. Social - Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?This is the progress report for the first nine months Year 1, so much of the work we have planned to do will happen over the upcoming months as we were finishing an extension on the previous four-year grant cycle. We plan to complete two new case studies (one on a female owner/operator and one on a military veteran) and present the case studies to rehab professionals.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Goal 1 - Education: Provide learning activities that focus on accommodating disability in agriculture while avoiding secondary injury. Increase knowledge of and referral to AgrAbility among employment professionals (new VR counselors, VA VR&E counselors, and One Stop Employment Center staff). · Educational Workshops: AT Solutions for Hearing Loss (21 VR counselors); Accessible Communication Solutions for Rural Living (24 extension agents); Ag Modifications and Kansas AgrAbility Services (28 new VR counselors; 2 ½ day workshops). Increase knowledge of AgrAbility services among rehabilitation professionals (OT, PT, orthopedic specialists, physiatrists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants). Educational workshops: Sunflower Case Managers Meeting: 56 health professionals (CEUs), Wichita; Kansas Optometric Association, 112 health professionals, Manhattan; 3 Fort Hays State University & 8 Hays Regional Medical Center staff, Hays; Dole Veterans Administration Rehab (VIST team, CEUs), Dole Veterans Administration Rehab, Dole Veterans Administration Rehab (5 SCI team); 6 KU Medical School PT Department, Kansas City; 9 Abilene Rehab Clinic, Abilene. Increase knowledge of AgrAbility among veterans. SE Amputee Support Group, 8 veterans, Fort Scott; SAVE Farm visit, 5 veterans, Manhattan. Increase knowledge of AgrAbility services among rural audiences. · Communication Solutions for Rural Living (56 rural residents); AT Solutions for Hearing Loss (33 rural residents). Goal 2 - Networking: Increase opportunities for sharing information, providing services, acquiring funding, increasing service capacity, and developing partnerships. KAP actively participated with the SAVE Farm Farmer Veteran tours held each Friday to introduce agricultural production to interested veterans and active duty soldiers who are leaving the military. KAP Project Coordinator is a member of planning committee for Women Managing the Farm Conference. Participated in National AgrAbility Committees: Evaluation and Marketing and Media Community of Interest. Six KAP staff members and 2 Assistive Technology staff attended the AgrAbility NTW in Lincoln, NE. The 2 additional staff participated to further a sustainability effort to cross train staff in anticipation of retirement or staff moving to new positions. KAP staff continue to plan and implement assistive technology and agricultural modification training workshops for vocational rehabilitation counselors conducted quarterly each year. Goal 3 - Assistance: Provide individualized consultative services that increase the likelihood that KAP customers and their farm business experience success. What has been done: Maintained toll free, statewide phone number. Provided project contact information on the project web site, http://www.agrability.ksu.edu/. The new web address simplified finding KAP resources online. Conducted on-site farm assessments. Helped farmers who needed funding assistance identify possible sources of funding. Provided demonstration for assistive devices that the farmer might find beneficial. Coordinated acquisition of refurbished durable medical equipment through the Kansas Equipment Exchange Program. Provided follow-up assistance after assistive devices were acquired to make sure they meet the farmer's needs. Results: 56 farmers from 33 Kansas counties received direct assistance (farm assessment, farm visit, direct consultation) from a Kansas AgrAbility Assistive Technology Ag Specialist Average customer age was 54 years Age range of KAP customers was 7 to 92 years 38 KAP customers are male; 18 KAP customers are female 20 KAP customers are owner/operators; 4 spouse/partners; 2 seasonal workers; 1 employee 173 goals for assistance were created for farmer customers 219 goals for KAP customers were active during the reporting period 171 goals were completed during the reporting period; some goals were unfinished from the previous year; some goals remained unfinished to be completed in the upcoming year. Top three goals were: short-term device loans (53 loans made); device demonstrations (24 requests completed); and funding assistance (16 funding goals completed resulting in $134,850 in equipment placed with Kansas farmers). 91 pieces of refurbished durable medical equipment (valued at $52,491) were provided for KAP customers. 42 modifications or assistive technology devices were provided to KAP customers (valued at $34,508). Goal 4 - Marketing: Conduct an integrated campaign of awareness suitable for all audiences. · Website updated: http://www.agrability.ksu.edu/. · Social media presence maintained through posts to Kansas AgrAbility Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest platforms, including establishing an Instagram page. · On the average, posted three times per week with content related to KAP services, ag safety, accessible agriculture, KAP partners and events and sharing posts from SRAP, NIFA and NAP. · Public awareness was increased through publication of KAP articles in the following publications: o Grass and Grain (37,500 weekly readers), Farm Talk (circulation of 7,000), High Plains Journal (circulation in 12 states in the Great Plains and Midwest Region), Salina Post (daily circulation of 24,752), KRVN Radio (market area includes Kansas and Nebraska) and Kansas State University e-Publications including K-State Today ((25,000 employees) @engg this week and the KSRE Tuesday Letter to all Kansas extension employees.
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