Progress 09/01/22 to 08/31/23
Outputs
Target Audience:WSAP target audience includes farmers, farm workers, ranchers and fishers through mainly virtual methods and targetedthrough media promotions utilizing Zoom, webinars and other electronic means during the Covid-19 pandemic. We've promoted our services throughout the state and are working closely with specific emphasis on the LatinX, veteran and aging populations. We have been networking specifically with Growing Veterans and the Deparment of Veteran Affairs. We are developing relationships with Conservation district farm planners as they work directly with farmers and have the ability to refer people to our program. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?The following trainings and Professional Development courses were attended by 1 or more AgrAbility coordinator: March 20, 2023 AgrAbility National Training Workshop March 29, 2023 Adult Mental Health First Aid March 2023 QPR Train the Trainer May 20, 2023 AgriSafe Rural Health May 20, 2023 AgriSafe Farm Stress June 14, 2023 QPR for Veterans July 19, 2023 Working with Native American Audiences July 19, 2023 Agricultural Health and Safety How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The Washington AgrAbility Program has created a number of outreach materials that help educate communities of interest about the availability of of the AgrAbility Program. These materials include: branded face masks silicone head brackets for face masks AgrAbility halfsheet - English NAP (National AgrAbility Program) brochure Arthritis & Gardening Brochure NAP Demonstrated Impact Farmer Stretching Brochure Toolbox postcard WATAP (Washington Assitive Technology Act Program) flyer These items were distributed appropriately at various venues or provided in "toolboxes" as appropriate: Skagit County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting DOH (Deptartment of Health) suicide prevention toolkit Food & Farm Symposium (Spokane Conservation District) Cattlemen's/Cattlewomen's Convention Farm Bureau Convention WA Tilth Alliance Conference WA Dairy Federation Conference in Grand Mound, WA Skagit County Seed Summit Spokane Ag Show Klickitat Co. Coop Ext Office What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Objective 1: EducationOffer Educational workshops for service providers (4/yr) and farmers (4/yr(. 8 total for performance period. Activities: collaborating with partners; assessing needs; adapting and modifying workshops to address needs Partners:WATAP, WA Farm Bureau, Conservation Districts, Viva Farms, Growing Veterans and others. Expected Outputs:increased referrals, meetings with new partners and development of relationships Challenges/Changes:?Digital delivery risks losing the personal connection, hands-on demonstration may not resonate with audience Objective 2: Network Activities:Develop new partnerships;Assisting with Native American AgrAbility Conference in New Mexico, September 2022; Northwest AgrAbiity Conference in Reno, NV,November 2022; National AgrAbility Conference, Spokane, WA; March 2023. Parnters:WA DVR, SeaMar Community Health Centers, FSA, Farm Bureau RETRO Safety Expected Outputs:Inceased referrals (including farmworkers), meetings with new partners Challenges/Changes:relying on electronics and technology vs having that personal face to face. Objective 3: Assistance Activities:Continue to conduct onsite assessments; create and distribute Lending Library kits. NWAF to provide financial training for farmers & offer low interest loans for AT adoption. Partners:WATAP, WSU Extension, Northwest Access Fund, Northwest Ag Business Center Expected Outputs:Reach planned number of participants receiving direct assistance (25/yr) Challenges/Changes:Signing up people for farm or home assessments is often challenging. Even after they are signed up and the home visit happens, they are sometimes reluctant to complete the paperwork. Objective 4: Marketing Activities: Continue to find and refer more clients Presence at in-person fairs and commodity association trade fairs/conventions in winter. Example of fairs: Puget Sound Jr Livestock Show, Skagit County Fair, Evergreen State Fair, Ferry County Fair. Since new AgrAbility coordinators are now spread in different parts of the state, we will probably have some new venues in different sections of the state. Examples of trade fairs/conventions: Farm Bureau, WA Agricultural Educators, Spokane Ag Expo, Country Living Expo, Cattlemen/Cattlewomen convention, Tree Fruit Growers, Potato, Hay and Dairy conventions Continue modifying website as indicated by analytics or new information Design and develop additional outreach materials appropriate for given events Gather stories and testimonials Partners:WA state/county fairs and trade fairs/conventions, current and past WSAP clients Expected Outputs:increased number of referrals to WSAP program, updates to WSAP website, permanent WSAP displays, WSAP client tertimonials Challenges/Changes:Geographically expanded outreach will improve recruiting efforts.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
The Washington State AgrAbility Project (WSAP) made significant progress on project Objectives, overcoming barriers encountered due to the Covid-19 pandemic. With the State re-opening during this time, attendance at in-person events became possible, providing more opportunities for Education, Networking, and Direct Assistance for people who can benefit from assistive technology in Agriculture. Objective 1. Education: Offer Educational workshops for service providers (4/yr) and farmers (4/yr). 17 Provider & Farmer Workshops completed during this period. Service Provider Workshops entailed an introduction and overview of the AgrAbility project, services offered, defining assistive technology (AT) and recognition of our partners. Some workshops were specifically designed for the stakeholder's needs which led into more details of specifics of program. (5Workshops, 134Total Attendees) Farmer Workshops entailed an introduction to AgrAbility, detailed introduction to services offered including the lending library, discussion of low, medium and high AT (assistive technology) and AT tool demonstrations.(5Workshops, 74attendees) Status: Complete for YR4 Summary: In 2023, Workshops returned to mostly in person events, with an occasional virtual event when it made sense or suited a particular need. Objective 2. Network: Create a Pathway to Services (PS) platform published and "live" on the WSAP website within Q1 of Y2. Status: Complete After the initial online publication of the Pathway to Services, website analytics showed that this resource was not getting much use on our website. For this reason, the name of the link was changed to "Washington Resources", which now links to the Pathway to Services document and more information. You can find this information at https://extension.wsu.edu/skagit/pathway-to-services/. Existing partnerships continued through this time, and new partnerships and networking opportunities were developed as indicated below. Summary: No changes in YR4 Objective 3. Assistance: WSAP intends to provide 25 individual per year with direct assistance, 100 for the 4-year program duration Status: Total of 46 farmers receiving direct assistance during performance period. Direct assistance includes one on one consultations; individuals using the lending libraries for "trial runs" with assistive technology; and more intensive consultations with clients that include multiple meetings and evaluations, resulting in thorough assessments and recommendations. 3.A. Provide on-site (home and/or workplace) assessments for farmers with disabilities who do not quality for DVR services. (3 Activities Below) a. Recruit participants - Recruitment has been more successful this year with the improved ability to meet in person with potential participants, due to having several AgrAbility coordinators in different locations throughout the state.A total of 46 participants have received Direct Assistance in one form or another. b. Develop Protocols - Continued client management using Asana project management software. c. Provide Assessments - Sixteen clients were identified for home assessments and all have been completed. There are eight more potential clients that have not been assessed yet. 3.B Lending Library: Kits of AT for trial a. Create kits The AgrAbility program continued to add AT items to existing kits. The team continues to discover new items, and has been successful at finding low cost items that work well for many people. New AT items range from tractor PTO attachments that overcome grip issues, to small items that help with carring buckets or other heavy items. b. Develop and administer training - Demonstrations and training for Assistive Technology was offered in many formats. People had the opportunity to see and try out AT items at trade shows and conventions. Workshops were also held at partner locations such as Viva Farms and Growing Veterans. There are also video tutorials available online for many of the AT items contained in the Lending Library. c. Circulate kits- Thirty individuals utilized the lending library during this time frame. 3.Financial assistance for AT adoption a. financial capacity training for farmers. Northwest Access Fund (NwAF) will offer 2 financial education workshops each year, with a total of 8 over the 4-year program. NwAF has provided14 loans in the agriculture realm since the beginning of the grant. All of these 14 participants also received some financial coaching such as review of their credit report, discussion about their budget and potential resources that could assist them. In addition to the 14, there were 2 other participants that did not receive loans but did receive the financial coaching. For webinars and presentations, NwAF had 4 during this fiscal year including the National AgrAbility Conference, a credit building class, a benefits management presentation, and a presentation to the National Disability Institute which was focused on small businesses, including agriculture operations. NwAF reports thatfinancial discussions are difficult to initiate with farmers. Then we add in discussions around health and abilities, which is also taboo.Some of this hesitation could be offset by organizations that farmers already trust encouraging more self disclosure on these hard topics. b. Provide loans for AT adoption; Provide matched saving account NwAF has provided14 loans in the agriculture realm since the beginning of the grant. Objective 4. Marketing: Establish bilingual website which will offer the Pathway to Services questionnaire, resource lists and contact information to reach service providers English:https://extension.wsu.edu/skagit/agrability/ Spanish:https://extension.wsu.edu/skagit/agrability_espanol/ Status: Complete for YR4 a. Develop promotional materials • Handouts/printouts/masks and other promotional materials created • Maintained social media engagement through Facebook and participated in virtual events as opportunities were identified. b. Establish website: Status: Complete for YR4 c. Attend agricultural events (6 annually) AgrAbility attended 79 events during in this period. Events included Livestock Shows, County Fairs, State Fairs, and various agricultural conventions and workshops. This large number of event atendance, which occurred statewide, was made possible during year four due to having 4 part-time AgrAbility coordinators on staff, rather than a single full-time coordinator. These coordinators are located in different regions of the state. d. Testimonial videos: Complete https://extension.wsu.edu/skagit/agrabilityservices/
Publications
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Cruse, M. (2022, September 22). Farmers with disabilities get a helping hand. Capital Press. https://www.capitalpress.com/specialsections/safety/farmers-with-disabilities-get-a-helping-hand/article_39b52bc2-24bf-11ed-9513-efd851705c96.html
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Progress 09/01/21 to 08/31/22
Outputs
Target Audience:WSAP target audience includes farmers, farm workers, ranchers and fishers through mainly virtual methods and targetedthrough media promotions utilizing Zoom, webinars and other electronic means during the Covid-19 pandemic. We've promoted our services throughout the state and are working closely with specific emphasis on the LatinX, veteran and aging populations. We have been networking specifically with Growing Veterans and the Deparment of Veteran Affairs. We are developing relationships with Conservation district farm planners as they work directly with farmers and have the ability to refer people to our program. Changes/Problems:Grants Coordinator Kate Seymour left WSU Skagit County Extension in November 2021. Her position was filled by Beth Meenaghan in January 2022. WSU Project Evaluator Rebecca Sero was replaced by Season Hoard in early 2022. AgrAbility Coordinator Kristin Hinton-VanValkenburg left the position in July 2022. This spot is being filled with multiple part-time AgrAbility coordinators spread out in different locations throughout Washington, including Emily Whittier in Klickitat/Skamania Countiies and Alyssa Wade in Lincoln/Adams Counties. It was difficult for a singlecoordinator located in Skagit County to travel to many of the more remote and sparsly populated areas of Washington. Dividing the outreach work among people already working in other extension offices should help with our outreach efforts. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?The following trainings and Professional Development courses were attended by AgrAbility coordinator: CIELO: Building Cultural Awereness of Indigenous Farmworkers Workshop Say What? Protecting your hearing (invest in your health: train the trainer) Veterans: Navigating Agricultural Careers and Arthritis Exploring Job Options in Rural Wisconsin Helping Farm and Ranch Families inCrisis Building Resilience into Your Farm, Let Nature Do the Heavy Lifting Design by What You Can Find: Assistive Technology Built on the Farm Assisstive Technology in Agriculture Sustainability for AgrAbility Programs Collaborating with Your Goodwill & Other Non-Profits Taking Care of ALL the Generations on the Farm Migrant Farmworker Assistive Technology Vision Solutions for Farmers Charity Care Wearable Assistive Technology for Agricultural Workers Transition Across the Lifespan: Addition Transition to Assistive Technology Consideration How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The Washington AgrAbility Program has created a number of outreach materials that help educate communities of interest about the availability of of the AgrAbility Program. These materials include: branded face masks silicone head brackets for face masks AgrAbility halfsheet - English NAP (National AgrAbility Program) brochure Arthritis & Gardening Brochure NAP Demonstrated Impact Farmer Stretching Brochure Toolbox postcard WATAP (Washington Assitive Technology Act Program) flyer These items were distributed appropriately at various venues or provided in "toolboxes" as appropriate: Skagit County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting DOH (Deptartment of Health) suicide prevention toolkit Food & Farm Symposium (Spokane Conservation District) Cattlemen's/Cattlewomen's Convention Farm Bureau Convention WA Tilth Alliance Conference WA Dairy Federation Conference in Grand Mound, WA Skagit County Seed Summit Spokane Ag Show Klickitat Co. Coop Ext Office What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Objective 1: EducationOffer Educational workshops for service providers (4/yr) and farmers (4/yr(. 8 total for performance period. Activities: collaborating with partners; assessing needs; adapting and modifying workshops to address needs Partners:WATAP, WA Farm Bureau, Conservation Districts, Viva Farms, Growing Veterans and others. Expected Outputs:increased referrals, meetings with new partners and development of relationships Challenges/Changes:?Digital delivery risks losing the personal connection, hands-on demonstration may not resonate with audience Objective 2: Network Activities:Develop new partnerships; further explore networking with Department of Vocational Rehabilitation (WA DVR); Assisting with Native American AgrAbility Conference in New Mexico, September 2022; Northwest AgrAbiity Conference in Reno, NV,November 2022; National AgrAbility Conference, Spokane, WA; March 2023. Parnters:WA DVR, SeaMar Community Health Centers, FSA, Farm Bureau RETRO Safety Expected Outputs:Inceased referrals (including farmworkers), meetings with new partners Challenges/Changes:relying on electronics and technology vs having that personal face to face. Objective 3: Assistance Activities:Continue to conduct onsite assessments; create and distribute Lending Library kits. NWAF to provide financial training for farmers & offer low interest loans for AT adoption. Partners:WATAP, WSU Extension, Northwest Access Fund, Northwest Ag Business Center Expected Outputs:Reach planned number of participants receiving direct assistance (25/yr) Challenges/Changes:Our AgrAbility Coordinator, who was located in Skagit County, left the position near the end of YR-3; we are replacing her with multiple part-time coordinators in different regions of Washington, which will help facility reaching more people in remote areas. Objective 4: Marketing Activities: Presence at in-person fairs and commodity association trade fairs/conventions in winter. Example of fairs: Puget Sound Jr Livestock Show, Skagit County Fair, Evergreen State Fair, Ferry County Fair. Since new AgrAbility coordinators are now spread in different parts of the state, we will probably have some new venues in different sections of the state. Examples of trade fairs/conventions: Farm Bureau, WA Agricultural Educators, Spokane Ag Expo, Country Living Expo, Cattlemen/Cattlewomen convention, Tree Fruit Growers, Potato, Hay and Dairy conventions Continue modifying website as indicated by analytics or new information Design and develop additional outreach materials appropriate for given events Gather stories and testimonials, complete 2 testimonial videos Partners:WA state/county fairs and trade fairs/conventions, current and past WSAP clients Expected Outputs:increased number of referrals to WSAP program; WSAP marketing video, updates to WSAP website, permanent WSAP displays, WSAP client tertimonials Challenges/Changes:Geographically expanded outreach will improve recruiting efforts.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
The Washington State AgrAbility Project (WSAP) made significant progress on project Objectives, overcoming barriers encountered due to the Covid-19 pandemic. With the State re-opening during this time, attendance at in-person events became possible, providing more opportunities for Education, Networking, and Direct Assistance for people who can benefit from assistive technology in Agriculture. Objective 1. Education: Offer Educational workshops for service providers (4/yr) and farmers (4/yr). 17 Provider & Farmer Workshops completed during this period. Service Provider Workshops entailed an introduction and overview of the AgrAbility project, services offered, defining assistive technology (AT) and recognition of our partners. Some workshops were specifically designed for the stakeholder's needs which led into more details of specifics of program. (9 Workshops, 123 Total Attendees) Farmer Workshops entailed an introduction to AgrAbility, detailed introduction to services offered including the lending library, discussion of low, medium and high AT (assistive technology) and AT tool demonstrations.(8 Workshops, 112 attendees) Status: Complete for YR3 Summary: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and associated socially distancing and safety requirements, some workshops were delivered virtually. These workshops led to network development and recruited participants to receive assistance in the form of on-site assessments, on farm AT demonstrations and Lending Library check-out of AT. Beginning in 2022, some of these presentations have been in person. Objective 2. Network: Create a Pathway to Services (PS) platform published and "live" on the WSAP website within Q1 of Y2. Status: Complete After the initial online publication of the Pathway to Services, website analytics showed that this resource was not getting much use on our website. For this reason, the name of the link was changed to "Washington Resources", which now links to the Pathway to Services document and more information. You can find this information at https://extension.wsu.edu/skagit/pathway-to-services/. Existing partnerships continued through this time, and new partnerships and networking opportunities were developed as indicated below. Summary: A few partnerships were impacted by personnel changes and lack of bandwidth during COVID. Virtual conferences provided continuity until the state re-opened and events could be held in person. Virtual events and meetings have now become normal and many people have developed a skillset to use this technology, allowing people to participate in meetings or conferences they may not have attended pre-COVID due to travel considerations. Objective 3. Assistance: WSAP intends to provide 25 individual per year with direct assistance, 100 for the 4-year program duration Status: Total of 50 farmers receiving direct assistance during performance period. This is more individuals than anticipated. Direct assistance includes one on one consultations; individuals using the lending libraries for "trial runs" with assistive technology; and more intensive consultations with clients that include multiple meetings and evaluations, resulting in thorough assessments and recommendations. 3.A. Provide on-site (home and/or workplace) assessments for farmers with disabilities who do not quality for DVR services. (3 Activities Below) a. Recruit participants - Recruitment has been more successful this year with the improved ability to meet in person with potential participants. A total of 47 participants have received Direct Assistance in one form or another. b. Develop Protocols - Developed new protocols for client management using Asana project management software. c. Provide Assessments - Eight clients were identified for home assessments and six have been completed. There are two more potential clients that have not been assessed yet. 3.B Lending Library: Kits of AT for trial a. Create kits The AgrAbility program continued to add AT items to existing kits. b. Develop and administer training - Demonstrations and training for Assistive Technology was offered in many formats. People had the opportunity to see and try out AT items at trade shows and conventions. Workshops were also held at partner locations such as Viva Farms and Growing Veterans. There are also video tutorials available online for many of the AT items contained in the Lending Library. c. Circulate kits- Forty-four individuals utilized the lending library during this time frame. 3.Financial assistance for AT adoption a. financial capacity training for farmers. Northwest Access Fund (NwAF) will offer 2 financial education workshops each year, with a total of 8 over the 4-year program. NwAF offered a 4-part virtual series during this time. 3/4/22: AgrAbility - What is it? What does it do, and can it help me? 3/11/22: Assistive Technology - What's available, how to choose it how to fund it 3/18/22: Medical Debt and Charity Care - income eligible programs for emergency medical care expenses 3/25/22 - Applying for Social Security Disability - eligibility, application process, cash and health benefits, and returning to farming b. Provide loans for AT adoption; Provide matched saving accounts Although loans have been offered to potential clients for assistive technology, none have accepted because they had the means to pay for the items themselves. Objective 4. Marketing: Establish bilingual website which will offer the Pathway to Services questionnaire, resource lists and contact information to reach service providers Status: Complete/On Schedule for YR3 a. Develop promotional materials • Handouts/printouts/masks and other promotional materials created (available in Products) • Created media marketing campaign with marketing agency and rolled out campaign for 6 months. (See Products for metrics and media samples) • Maintained social media engagement through Facebook and participated in virtual events as opportunities were identified. b. Establish website: Maintained AgrAbility program website which houses promotional materials, Pathway to Services and check out system for Lending Library and other program elements. • English: https://extension.wsu.edu/skagit/agrability/ • Spanish: https://extension.wsu.edu/skagit/agrability_espanol/ • Lending Library: https://extension.wsu.edu/skagit/agrability/lending-library/ • Pathway to Services: https://extension.wsu.edu/skagit/pathway-to-services/ c. Attend agricultural events (6 annually) AgrAbility attended 23 events during in this period. Events included Livestock Shows, County Fairs, State Fairs, and various agricultural conventions and workshops. d. Testimonial videos: Behind schedule, will complete in YR4
Publications
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Henneman, Jamie 2022. Program Offers Adaptive Technology for Agriculturalists. Western Ag Reporter. (Jan 20, 2022)
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Progress 09/01/20 to 08/31/21
Outputs
Target Audience:WSAP target audience includes farmers, farm workers ranchers and fishers though mainly virtual methods and targeted through media promotions utilizing Zoom, webinars and other electronic mean during the Covid-19 pandemic. We've promoted our services throughout the state and are working closely with specific emphasis on the LatinX, veteran and aging populations. We have been networking specifically with Growing Veterans and the Deparment of Veteran Affairs. We are developing relationships with Conservation district farm planners as they work directly with farmers and have the ability to refer people to our program. Changes/Problems:Covid-19 has proved the major challenge to date. Planned activity regarding event attendance was cancelled or postponned which greatly impacted WSAP's farmer recruitment plan. As such, deliverables for objective 3. Direct Assistance, is below the aimed threshold. 14 complete; Program target 25. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?WSAP team members have been trained in Mental Health First Aid and QPR (suicide prevention and intervention) as well as CPR. WSAP team has taken Veteran Communication and Competency training provided by the WA Department of Veteran Affairs. Additionally, WSAP team members have attended many workshops hosted by NAP and intend to attend the August Regional AgrAbility Copnference in Montana. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Information, materials and workshops are posted to the WSAP website and Facebook page and promoted through the WSU network of Extension services, WSAP Partners and alligned stakeholder groups like the WA Farm Bureau and Department of Veterans Affairs. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Objective 1: Educational: Offer Educational workshops for service providers (4/yr) and farmers (4/yr). 8 total for performance period. Activities: collaborating with partners; assessing needs; adapting and modifying workshops to address needs Partners: WATAP, WA Farm Bureau, Conservation Districts, Viva Farms, Growing Veterans and others. Expected Outputs: increased referrals, meetings with new partners and development of relationships Challenges/Changes: Digital delivery risks loosing the personal connection, hands-on demonstration may not resonate with audience Objective 2: Network: Activities: Develop new partnerships; further explore networking with Department of Vocational Rehabilitation (WA DVR); Partners: WA DVR, SeaMar Community Health Centers, FSA, Farm bureau RETRO safety; Expected Outputs: Increased referrals (including farmworkers), meetings with new partners Challenges/Changes: relying on electronics and technology vs having personal, face to face interactions Objective 3: Assistance: Activities: Continue to conduct onsite assessments, create and distribute Lending Library kits. NwAF to provide financial training for farmers & offer low interest loans for AT adoption Partners: WATAP, WSU Extension, Northwest Access Fund, Northwest Ag Business Center Expected Outputs: Reach planned # of participants receiving direct assistance (25/year) Challenges/Changes: the pandemic and shutting down slowed networking/promotion /recruitment Objective 4: Marketing: Activities: Pursue collaboration with WSU Mobile Medical Unit to deliver relevant farm stress materials at vaccine clinic days in rural communities Presence at in-person fairs and commodity association trade fairs/conventions in winter; most of these events were cancelled in 2020 through spring 2021 due to COVID-19 Example of fairs: Puget Sound Jr. Livestock show, Skagit Co. Fair, Evergreen State Fair (Monroe), Ferry Co. Fair, Lynden Fair, Puyallup Fair Examples of trade fairs/conventions: Farm Bureau, WA Agricultural Educators, Spokane Ag Expo, Country Living Expo, Cattlemen/Cattlewomen convention, Tree Fruit Growers, Potato, Hay and Dairy conventions Permanent display materials and presence at open-houses at tractor supply dealers in late winter/early spring explore modifying website to increase accessablity Design and develop additional outreach materials appropriate for given events Gather stories and testimonials Partners: WSU School of Medicine, WA state/county fairs and trade fairs/conventions, tractor supply dealers, current and past WSAP clients Expected Outputs: increased number of referrals to WSAP program; WSAP marketing video, updates to WSAP website, permanent WSAP displays, WSAP client testimonials Challenges/Changes: Fewer than anticipated farmers receiving direct assistance will hamper ability to recruit testimonial spotlights.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
The Washington State AgrAbility Project (WSAP) launch faced administrative and environmental difficulties; the contract initiation with USDA was 8 months past start date and coincided with the Covid-19 pandemic and the stay-at-home orders. Despite the challenges posed, WSAP has been able to make meaningful progress on program goals, meet program deliverables and deliver Education, Outreach, Direct Assistance and Marketing to Washington State farmers and farm workers. What follows is a summary of accomplishments by program Objective. Objective 1. Education: Offer Educational workshops for service providers (4/yr) and farmers (4/yr). 8 total for performance period. Service Provider Workshops entailed an introduction and overview of the AgrAbility project, services offered, defining assistive technology and recognition of our partners. Some workshops were specifically designed for the stakeholder's needs which led into more details of specifics of program. (7 Workshops) Farmer Workshops entailed an introduction to AgrAbility, detailed introduction to services offered including the lending library, discussion of low, medium and high AT (assistive technology) and AT tool demonstrations.(10 Workshops) Status: Complete for Y2 Summary: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and associated socially distancing and safety requirements, all listed educational workshops were delivered virtually. These workshops led to network development and recruited participants to receive assistance in the form of on-site assessments, on farm AT demonstrations (scheduled for summer 2021) and Lending Library check-out of AT. Objective 2. Network: Create a Pathway to Services (PS) platform published and "live" on the WSAP website within Q1 of Y2. Status: Complete /On Schedule for Y2 Pathway to Services Published Live as of October 23rd, 2020. In developing this framework, WSAP team members pursued partnerships with relevant stakeholder groups throughout the state. This work not only informed the Pathway to Services but may lead to referrals and new marketing/educational opportunities. WSAP has developed working relationships with over a dozen organizations throughout the state and 4 SRAPS across the AgrAbility Network. These relationships have informed resources and service delivery. Summary: Due to COVID-19, in-person meetings were limited as organizations were working remotely. WSAP reached out to relevant organizations with limited response. Program partners that did respond indicated a decreased bandwidth due to COVID-19, remote work and an increase in community need. In an attempt to address this, a Qualtrix survey was developed to gather information on organizations to include in the Pathway to Services. Objective 3. Assistance: WSAP intends to provide 25 individual per year with direct assistance, 100 for the 4-year program duration Status: Total of 14 farmers receiving direct assistance during performance period. Fewer participants that anticipated. WSAP plans for outreach and farmer recruitment were hindered by Covid-19 and the cancellation of events or in-person activity. This has been especially difficult as other SRAPS have indicated that client recruitment is heavily driven by word of mouth. One SRAP PI suggesting, "[...] just get one client to go through the process and more will sign up." While WSAP has not reached the anticipated 25 participants for this objective, WSAP team has been able to recruit and assist 14 farmers in receiving direct assistance from the program by way of onsite assessments, Lending Library kits and financial assistance as explained in the portion below. 3.A. Provide on-site (home and/or workplace) assessments for farmers with disabilities who do not quality for DVR services. (3 Activities Below) a. Recruit participants - This has been extremely challenging during the pandemic as digital reliance for recruitment was challenging. Despite this, by networking with partner organizations, WSAP was able to recruit farmers and farmworkers to receive direct assistance. However with the guidelines opening up, events are beginning to happen in person. Throughout the year there are various farm show, educational workshops, fairs, commodity organization conventions and machinery dealership field days that will allow in person interaction and relationships to develop that lead to recruitment of clients. b.Develop Protocols - Protocols for WSAP have been developed with the assistance of our partner, Washington Assistive Technology Act Program (WATAP) and utilizing resources from other established AgrAbility programs. c. Provide Assessments- WSAP has conducted 2 onsite assessments in person, and 1 remotely. Given the difficulties in participant recruitment and the considerations/precautions for in person activity during Covid-19, WSAP is proud to have provided 3 farmers with this type of Direct Assistance. 3.B Lending Library: Kits of AT for trial a. Create kits (3 in 2019, 3 in 2020, 2 in 2021) Upwards of 10 Kits have been constructed for distribution across the state with the input from WATAP and referencing the AgrAbility Toolbox. Lending Library Kits address distinct functional categories, including hearing/vision devices, hand/arm solutions, back support, seating solutions, and computer solutions. Five kits purchased 04/21 for WSU Ferry Co. Ext., one of the most remote and underserved counties in the state. b. Develop and administer training -WSAP team members have familiarized themselves with Lending Library products and received direction and counsel from WATAP on tool usage. Protocols and procedures and Lending Library check-out form were shared with Ferry Co. Ext. 5/24/21. c. Circulate kits- Lending Library kits are available to farmers and farm workers across the state. Interested parties can check out a kit or unique tools of the bilingual WSAP website or by contacting the WSAP coordinator or the county liaison in Ferry County. 3.Financial assistance for AT adoption. NwAF will offer 2 financial education workshops each year, with a total of 8 over the 4-year program. Due in part to the administrative and environmental challenges, NwAF has hosted 1 workshop to date. b. Provide loans for AT adoption; Provide matched saving accounts Acknowledging the low need for this service partner Northwest Access Fund offered direct financial assistance for farmers during this performance period in lieu of loans for AT adoption. 4 farmers received 1 on 1 direct financial assistance. Objective 4. Marketing: Establish bilingual website which will offer the Pathway to Services questionnaire, resource lists and contact information to reach service providers. Status: Complete /On Schedule for Y2 a. Develop promotional materials Handouts/printouts/masks and other promotional materials created National AgrAbility Project Virtual Fair WA day October 2021; Audience: WSAP and National AgrAbility Project Facebook followers; Reach: 1,823, 120 engagements b. Establish website: Launched AgrAbility program website which houses promotional materials, Pathway to Services and check out system for Lending Library and other program elements. English/Spanish c. Attend agricultural events (6 annually) As in person events were cancelled in March 2020, WSAP was unable to attend many ag events in this performance period. AgrAbility attended 4 events in this period with at least 6 more scheduled before the end of the performance period. d. Testimonial videos: Year 3 Activity
Publications
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Awaiting Publication
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
McMoran, D. W., & Vanvulkenburg, K. 2021. Washington State AgrAbility: Building a New Extension Program During COVID-19. Journal of NACAA (May 2021, publication pending).
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Submitted
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
McMoran, D. W., & Vanvulkenburg, K. 2021. Washington State AgrAbility: Building a New Extension Program During COVID-19. Poster Presentation Pending NACAA Conference. July, 2021.
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Progress 09/01/19 to 08/31/20
Outputs
Target Audience:Our target audience of working farmers and farm workers has been mainly virtual and targeted through media promotions utilizing Zoom, webinars and other electronic mean during this pandemic time. We've promoted our services throughout the state and are working closely with specific emphasis on the LatinX, veteran and aging populations. We have been networking specifically with Growing Veterans and the Deparment of Veteran Affairs. We are developing relationships with Conservation district farm planners as they work directly with farmers and have the ability to refer people to our program. Changes/Problems:The major challenges facing WSAP relate to the contract finalization date (6 months after program start date) and the restrictions around Covid-19. Additionally, there have been key personnel changes. Covid-19: As a new SRAP, WSAP intended to have a large presence at fairs and agricultural events throughout the state to promote the program and recruit participants. Most or all of these events are cancelled, postponed or are now virtual and WSAP team members are working on new ways to be visible in Washington's rural communities. WSAP has done targeted outreach, started social media accounts and are collaborating with aligned stakeholder groups to maximize outreach. Deliverables related to Objective 3, providing direct assistance, are delayed for the following reasons: WSAP team members intended to receive training for appropriate site-assessment protocols at the National AgrAbility Project conference in spring 2020. As this conference was postponed, so was the training. WSAP team members have been working with other SRAPs to adopt best practices for providing site-assessments and intend to commence when it is safe and deemed appropriate at the State and County level as well as with the University and the farmer. Key Personnel Changes: Kristen Vanvalkenburg is the WSAP coordinator. Pedro Ashford has moved and is no longer with the program. Ashford was to offer worksite/home site assessments for Washington farmers on the East Side of the state. These assessments will be completed by Kristen Vanvalkenburg. Lastly, Patricia Butterfield has retired, the role of bridging this SRAP with the WSU medical school is facilitated by John Roll, Vice Dean for Research for the Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?WSAP team members were to attend the National AgrAbility Training in March 2020 and receive associated trainings. As this event was cancelled, those members intend to attend the rescheduled event in Fall 2020. WSAP team members have been trained in Mental Health First Aid and QPR (suicide prevention and intervention). How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Information, materials and workshops are posted to the WSAP website and Facebook page and promoted through the WSU network of Extension services. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Planned program activities for year 2 of WSAP tracks that of Y1 planned program activities with special considerations related to Covid-19 and operating safely throughout the state. Objective 1 Activity: Continue to offer workshops highlighting AT and various elements of AgrAbility Program. By collaborating with partner groups, WSAP intends to provide virtual workshops to specific farmer groups with a tailored presentation (ex: Growing Veterans or Washington Dairy Producer's Association). Outputs: No Fewer that 4 workshops in Y2 Objective 2 Activity: Complete and make publicly available the Pathway to Services resource for farmers who require support in accessing AT or other resources to return/continue to work safely. Outputs: Pathway to Services published on WSAP website Y2 Objective 3 Activity: Provide on-site assessments, distribute lending library kits of AT and offer financial assistance (Northwest Access Fund) for farmers. This includes providing assistance for those farmers recruited in Y1 but for whom the activity was postponed due to Covid-19. Provide direct assistance to 25 farmers. WSAP intends to explore offering the direct assistance to farmers experiencing difficulty working due to issues around excessive stress and behavioral health concerns. Acknowledging that finances are a major stressors and that due to Covid-19, many farmers are experiencing situations which negatively impact their finances, through the partnership with Northwest Access Fund, farmers could receive financial technical assistance. Objective 4 Activities: Continue to present at events and tailor materials to the needs of Washington farmers. Outputs: Website updates, ongoing translation and earned media coverage. Covid-19 program activity adjustments. As events are cancelled and the Stay Home, Stay Healthy mandate limits outreach, WSAP team members have explored engaging the agricultural community virtually and through new avenues. WSAP staff has leveraged relationships with organizations that also provide on farm consultation services with farmers. For example, virtual workshops were offered with a target audience of Conservation District staff. The intention being that as CD staff work with farmers, they can refer people to AgrAbility, embedding AT into farm BMPS. Similar tailored programming offered for the veteran farming population in coordination with Growing Veterans and Washington Sate Department of Veterans Affairs.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
While the Washington State AgrAbility Project program start date is 9/1/19, the contract was not finalized until Spring 2020 at which point, Washington State was under the Covid -19, Stay Home, Stay Healthy mandate. Understanding the complications launching this program, Y1 accomplishments, categorized by major aims, are as follows: Education: WSAP partners have spoken at 6 agricultural events and have provided 6 workshops to farmers and growers and stakeholders across Washington State since the start of the program. Work related the Objective 1 is considered on track (complete for Year 1). Network: WSAP has collaborated with various stakeholder groups laying the groundwork for the Pathway to Services, an infographic and questionnaire that connects participants with the appropriate service providers specific to the user's situation. Pathway to Services to be posted to WSAP website when completed. Assistance: WSAP partners have been working with the support of NAP and other SRAPs to identify the methods and best practices for completing on-site assessments. Farmers have been recruited for receiving this assistance however, on-site assessments have been postponed due to Covid-19 and the Washington State Stay Home, Stay Healthy mandate. On-site assessments will take place as the state reopens and as the State, County governments and University allow. WSAP has developed a lending library of AT kits for distribution. These kits include AT tailored to particular types of injuries or ailments such as: hearing and vision loss, lower back pain, arthritis and grip issues, etc. To further bridge the connection of health and safety to include behavioral health, there is a lending library kit tailored to stress assistance and memory/concentration. These kits are available for distribution and efforts have been taken to clean/sanitize materials in between use and are as such, considered on track for program performance. Lending library kits, or selected tools from a kit, have been distributed to 6 farmers/farm family members since March 2020. The partnership with Northwest Access Fund to support farmers who need financial assistance in adopting AT requires farmers to have received on-site assessments. As this has been delayed to Covid-19 and the Washington State Stay Home, Stay Healthy mandate, no participants have yet needed to access financial support. However, as many farmers are experiencing financial difficulties due to Covid-19 (disruptions in supply chain, concerns related to accommodations for seasonal workforce, etc.) WSAP and Northwest Access Fund is exploring financial technical assistance support for farmers. Marketing: WSAP established a website in November 2019 (https://extension.wsu.edu/skagit/agrability/) which is used to promote the program, highlight events, allow farmers/stakeholders to sign-up for emails or to receive direct assistance. Website also has NAP videos and publications linked for reference. Additionally, a WSAP Facebook page was published in May 2020. Additionally, Skagit Valley Herald (GoSkagit.com) has published an article promoting the program, "AgrAbility Program Focuses on Keeping Farmers Working". WSAP has also developed marketing materials for distribution at events and virtually.
Publications
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