Understanding public perspectives on environmental issues is crucial in agriculture. Agricultural Best Management Practices (BMPs) play a vital role in environmental conservation, yet many people remain unaware of the strides made by the industry to safeguard our natural resources. Past research has shed light on disparities between agricultural opinion leaders and the general public regarding environmental concerns, but little attention has been paid to variations within the public based on urban, suburban, or rural backgrounds. This study aimed to examine differences amongst such audiences. Key Findings: Significant differences were observed in respondents' perspectives based on their urban, suburban, or rural backgrounds. Urban residents generally held a more positive outlook on agriculture's environmental impact compared to suburban and rural counterparts. Suburban residents displayed a more positive perspective than rural residents, highlighting varying degrees of positivity across different locales. Negative perspectives on agriculture's environmental impact were more pronounced, particularly among urban and suburban residents, indicating the influence of negative framing on public perception. Implications for Agricultural Educators: Tailored outreach efforts are essential to effectively communicate with diverse audiences. Extension educators should develop targeted messaging that resonates with urban, suburban, and rural populations. Framing techniques, such as storytelling, may be effective in eliciting emotional responses and prompting positive changes in public attitudes toward agriculture. This study highlights the need for tailored communication strategies to address varying perspectives on agriculture's environmental impact among urban, suburban, and rural populations. By employing framing techniques like storytelling, extension educators can better bridge the gap between public perception and agricultural reality. Ultimately, fostering a deeper understanding of agriculture's role in environmental conservation is crucial for a sustainable future. Please be sure to share your thoughts and comments below! Gibson, K. E., Lamm, A. J., Lamm, K. W., & Warner, L. A. (2020). Communicating with diverse audiences about sustainable farming: Does rurality matter? Journal of Agricultural Education, 61(4), 156-174. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2020.04156

Navigating the intricacies of Extension networks presents a myriad of challenges. From shifting global demographics to evolving stakeholder needs and resource constraints, the landscape is demanding. But through strategic advocacy, Extension networks can amplify their visibility and support, even amid these challenges. Despite recognizing the potential of advocacy, little research has examined the specific capacities needed for effective advocacy in Extension networks. The following summarizes research I conducted with a team of international Extension experts examining actionable insights to cultivate advocacy capabilities. Our research involved insights from Extension experts through a Delphi panel. However, it's essential to acknowledge that the findings are constrained by the participating experts' viewpoints. It is also important to note, the study was focused on international Extension networks, but the findings may be relevant to other contexts as well. A crucial recommendation coming from this study is for Extension networks to establish a common understanding of advocacy capacities. Shared terminology facilitates improved communication, knowledge sharing, and best practice dissemination. Our findings identified three fundamental capacities that had almost unanimous agreement among experts: Extension networks should have a presence on national platforms or events to enhance visibility. Strong partnerships with policy-making stakeholders are critical for improving Extension network visibility. The ability to articulate stakeholder needs is critical. These capacities underscore the importance of being present, known, and clear - the bedrock of effective advocacy. Further exploration reveals three overarching thematic areas closely aligned with these specific capacities: Visibility is critical, requiring recognition as a representative institution. To this end, participating in stakeholder-rich is very important. Understanding the impact of Extension on clientele gains prominence. Effectively articulating impacts resonates in advocacy efforts. Extension networks should compile both quantitative results and qualitative case studies to support these efforts. Develop compelling communication. Advocacy messages should be packaged succinctly and memorably, highlighting the most impactful elements which align with political and funding priorities. As we navigate a changing landscape, effective advocacy will be critical to ensure the viability and value of Extension networks. By focusing on visibility, impact, and compelling communication, Extension networks can harness advocacy's power to drive transformative change. I've linked the source research manuscript if you would like to read more about this research: Lamm, K. W., Lamm, A. J., Davis, K., & Swaroop, B. J. (2018). Effective advocacy for extension networks: an evaluation of critical capacities. Journal of International Agricultural and Extension Education, 25(2), 43-56. What are your thoughts and experiences with advocacy efforts - in Extension or other contexts? Please be sure to share your comments.

Based on a study I conducted with colleagues looking at change in Land Grant University System (LGUS), I thought it would be interesting to share some of our findings. Exploring the initiation, sustainability, and barriers to change, this study provides a unique lens through which to understand successful organizational change processes. Initiation: Catalysts that Drive Change Our study identified that change within the LGUS is often sparked by internal or external needs. These catalysts, are consistently identified in other change models. Surprisingly, the LGUS context also reveals that change can develop organically from a desire to enhance operations, underscoring the importance of internal motivation and commitment. Leadership's Role: Navigating the Start Change often starts at lower LGUS levels, where leaders or change agents enjoy supportive supervision and control. This aligns with the strategy of starting small and nurturing an environment of innovation. Success Essentials: Intent and Communication Key conditions for successful change encompass intentionality, effective communication, respect, and dedicated effort. This echoes the need to establish urgency and open channels of communication in higher education, fostering collaboration. Overcoming Obstacles: Inertia and Vision Gaps Bureaucratic inertia emerges as a significant barrier to change in LGUS. Clear vision is crucial, emphasizing the importance of communicating it effectively to ensure commitment. The Human Factor: People and Relationships Sustaining change in LGUS hinges on relationships, a powerful driver for success. This highlights the significance of collective efforts in sustaining change initiatives. Sustaining Momentum: Relevance and Communication Sustained LGUS change is linked to relevance and incremental growth. Ongoing communication and consistency play vital roles, ensuring integration into the organizational fabric. In Conclusion: Paving the Path of Change The LGUS study unveils insights for navigating change. From catalysts to relationships, the findings offer a unique perspective on organizational change. Clear communication, strategic intent, and overcoming inertia are pivotal. The LGUS context provides lessons for diverse organizations embarking on transformative journeys. Our proposed organizational change model... For more information and details, I've linked the full manuscript below: Lamm, K. W., Sapp, L. R., & Lamm, A. J. (2018). Organizational change in the land-grant system: A qualitative evaluation. Journal of Agricultural Education, 59(1), 204-222. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2018.01204 What are your thoughts about, and experiences with organizational change? Please be sure to provide your comments below!

This time of year students are returning to schools and campuses, and classes will be underway soon. I thought this would be a good time to share some of my previous research examining the tricky task of getting learners to direct their learning process on their own. We're all familiar with the idea of setting goals, something that's been studied extensively. But what about undergraduate students studying leadership? That's an area that hasn't been explored much. Especially when it comes to a class focused on leading groups and teams. This research was conducted to better understand how students go about setting their goals. Turns out, goals that students set for themselves are more meaningful and they're more likely to stick to them. This is compared to goals set by someone else. You could say that when it's their own idea, students are more motivated to persist toward those goals. Now, let's talk personality. Everyone's got their own traits that make them who they are. In this study, we looked at how personality might affect goal-setting. The findings were interesting. Across different classes examined, the personalities of students were consistent. Extraversion, which is about being outgoing, didn't score so high. This was surprising because in other research, being extroverted was connected to doing well on the job. On the other hand, being agreeable was a big hit. Students who scored high in agreeableness were more likely to set high goals for themselves. This suggests that educators may want to emphasize teamwork skills related to trust and being nice, as these could help students set and work towards their goals (and align with their agreeable nature). Earl Nightingale famously said, "People with goals succeed because they know where they're going". This study isn't just a bunch of numbers – it has real-world applications directly related to this concept. Educators can use this information to help students set their own goals. For example, a good idea might be to ask students to write down what grades they want at the start of a course. Research shows that students who do this are more likely to work hard and stick with their goals. Looking at the bigger picture, this study adds a piece to the puzzle of how personality and goal setting are connected. While there is still much research needed, this small connection may be helpful. Personality traits like being organized and being nice have a role in how students set their goals. This can help educators understand their students better and help them succeed. Of course it is important to acknowledge there are limits to this study. It focused on a specific group of students in one place. So, it might not apply to all students everywhere. More research is needed to know how personality and goal setting connect in different situations. So, in the world of education, where educators and learners work together, this study is a starting point, and a guide. It gives educators practical ideas to make learning more engaging and meaningful. Personality and goal setting – these two things, like two puzzle pieces, fit together to create a clearer picture of how students can succeed. To read more, I've included the original article for download. Lamm, K. W., Sheikh, E., & Edgar, D. W. (2019). Evaluating personality traits as a predictor of undergraduate goal setting. Journal of Agricultural Education, 60(2), 126-139. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2019.02126 What other tips and tricks do you have for increasing learner goal setting? Please be sure to share your comments!

As agriculture evolves, so does the way producers prefer to receive information. Agriculture is fundamentally dynamic; however, many of the communication channels used to reach producers have not changed over the years. Based on a study I conducted with several amazing colleagues we seek to illuminate more contemporary communication preferences, offering insights to shape and target more effective communication strategies. Knowing how producers want to receive information isn't just about convenience; it's a strategic move toward fostering an informed, connected, and resilient agricultural community. Communication Channel Preferences: Producers are increasingly favoring digital platforms such as websites and blogs over traditional newsletters. The significance of interpersonal communication, be it through formal meetings or casual conversations, remains strong among producers. The study highlights the dynamic shifts in producers' information consumption habits, emphasizing the need for adaptive communication strategies. Opinion Leadership as a Predictor: Opinion leaders in the agricultural community exhibit a more versatile approach to receiving information. A positive correlation exists between the level of perceived opinion leadership and openness to diverse communication channels. Recognizing and leveraging these distinctions can enhance the effectiveness of tailored communication strategies. Practical Implications: Strategic emphasis on online platforms, particularly websites and blogs, alongside fostering diverse meeting environments, proves essential for reaching producers effectively. Striking a balance between innovative communication methods and traditional approaches is pivotal for fostering effective communication within the agricultural community. This study contributes insights into the evolving landscape of agricultural communication preferences, bridging the gap between opinion leadership and effective communication strategies. Understanding and adapting to producers' evolving preferences is critical in advancing communication practices in the agricultural domain. Please be sure to share your feedback using the comments below. Lamm, K. W., Rumble, J. N., Carter, H. S., & Lamm, A. J. (2016). Agricultural opinion leader communication channel preferences: an empirical analysis of participants in agricultural and natural resource leadership development programs. Journal of Agricultural Education, 57(1), 91-105. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2016.01091

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, plants play a fundamental role in human well-being, contributing to physical, mental, and environmental health. As we delve into the critical issues facing the horticulture industry, we must recognize plants' profound impact on our lives. In a research study I conducted with several colleagues, we identified the critical issues facing the horticultural industry and opportunities, providing a roadmap for the future. Key Findings: Disease and Pest Management Challenges: Emerging pests and pathogens pose significant threats. Resistance to existing pest management practices requires attention. Production Challenges and Innovations: Reform in horticultural production practices is imperative. Sustainability, automation, and precision agriculture need emphasis. Unreliable supply chains, evolving consumer preferences, and profitability demand consideration. Education, Research, and Recruitment Needs: Enhancement of formal horticultural education programs is critical. Distance education programs and robust recruitment efforts are essential. Labor Challenges and Considerations: Shortage of skilled, manual, and migrant workers is a severe threat. Recruitment incentives and educational training can address labor challenges. Environmental Conditions and Natural Resource Availability: Changing environmental conditions impact production and resource availability. COVID-19 Impacts: The study was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic and outlines 14 issues linked to the pandemic, emphasizing disruptions in supply chains, increased interest in home gardening, continuity of research functions, and the shortage of skilled labor. Next Steps... This study provides insights into the horticulture industry, updating our understanding of contemporary challenges and opportunities. Identifying 34 unique issues through a Delphi process serves as a guide for research, education, and resource allocation. From sustainable pest management to labor recruitment and educational reforms, the study offers actionable pathways for industry resilience. Please be sure to share your thoughts and comments below. Lamm, K. W., Powell, A., & Lombardini, L. (2021). Identifying critical issues in the horticulture industry: A delphi analysis during the covid-19 pandemic. Horticulturae, 7(11), 1-12. https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae7110416

In the ever-changing landscape of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), we've witnessed a revolution in how we communicate. From microelectronics to the fusion of computing and telecommunications, ICTs are the backbone of modern communication. This transformation is not just about technology; it's about connecting agricultural research with rural communities through Rural Advisory Services (RAS). As we navigate this digital era, the critical question arises: How can RAS evolve alongside ICTs to effectively share timely and accessible information with farmers worldwide? Understanding ICT Potential in RAS Networks: A Social Capital Approach This study dives into the world of ICT capacities within RAS networks, using a social capital theoretical foundation. Experts from RAS globally came together in a Delphi process to pinpoint capacities linked with effective ICT use. The results echo what we already know – various ICT platforms are a lifeline for communication in rural areas, making sure essential agricultural information reaches where it's needed. What We Found and What We Suggest: Essentials for Effective ICT Use: The experts unanimously agreed on three must-haves for effective ICT use in RAS networks: Tools that are easy for everyone to use. Leveraging ICT tools to spread information. Making sure the network connects nationally. Tailoring ICT Support for RAS Providers: RAS networks have unique needs. To address them, experts suggest creating ICT systems that fit the mission of RAS providers. One size doesn't fit all here! Striving for Consistency and Teamwork: Tips for RAS Networks: Use the identified capacities as a starting point to measure how ready you are for ICT. Take assessment results to plan specific actions and activities. Advice for Networks Everywhere: Push for a shared language on ICT use globally. Share assessment results openly to learn from each other and get better together. What's Next: The study points us toward creating a tool to measure ICT use consistently across different RAS networks. If we all speak the same language and share our insights openly, we can make RAS networks not just effective locally, but globally. I've included the journal manuscript below for more information regarding the study. Please be sure to share your feedback in the comments below. Lamm, K. W., Lamm, A. J., Davis, K., Swaroop, B. J.+, & Edgar, L. D. (2019). Identifying information and communication technology use capacity needs of extension networks. Journal of International Agricultural and Extension Education, 26(3), 58-71

The holiday season, though often associated with joy and celebration, can also bring forth stress, especially in rural communities where unique challenges may amplify individuals' concerns. As we approach Thanksgiving, a time of reflection and gratitude, it's essential to recognize the potential stressors that might affect those in rural settings. In this blog post, I share findings from a study I conducted with several colleagues into the dynamics of rural stress, shedding light on significant findings that need attention and consideration, particularly during this time of the year. Key Findings: Validation of a rural stress instrument, affirming its effectiveness in capturing prevalent stressors in rural settings. Identification of distinct stress patterns across diverse rural demographics, shedding light on the nuanced nature of stress within these communities. Significant Observations: Elevated stress levels were observed in larger rural regions near urban centers, contrasting with unexpectedly lower stress levels in completely rural areas. This highlights the potential impact of significant changes, such as industrial shifts, on stress dynamics. Implications for Consideration: Residents in rural communities, especially those undergoing industrial transitions, need heightened awareness of stressors. Educators and support personnel in these locales can play a crucial role in identifying and assisting individuals grappling with heightened stress levels. Methodological Approach: Utilizing the empirical rural stress instrument can help provide a measure of perceived stressors in communities - particularly those in rural environments. Future Prospects: Subsequent research should examine individual stress dynamics for a more comprehensive understanding. Initiating broader conversations about stress within rural contexts can foster effective strategies to alleviate its impact. As the holiday season unfolds, particularly within rural communities, these results serve as a call to acknowledge and provide a tool to help address the multifaceted challenges posed by rural stress. Beyond mere comprehension, the emphasis lies in transformative action, fostering an environment where holidays encapsulate joy rather than stress. I've included the full manuscript below if you are interested in learning more. Please be sure to share your thoughts and feedback in the comments section. Lamm, K. W., Powell, A., Holt, J., Borron, A., & Atkins, K. (2020). Development and validation of a rural stress instrument. Journal of Agricultural Education, 61(1), 32-43. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2020.01032

In the dynamic realm of organizations in general, and higher education administration in particular, where change is a constant, understanding the nuances of leadership styles becomes paramount. In this post, I am excited to share research findings from a study into the dynamics of transformational and transactional leadership that unveils compelling insights, particularly within the context of large-scale organizational change initiatives. The study, centered around the PULSE Fellows group (a National Science Foundation, NSF, funded group), illuminates unexpected trends in leadership approaches. The results provide empirical insights regarding leadership and engagement in transformative activities. Leadership Styles in the Spotlight: The findings spotlight a prevalent shift toward transformational leadership among PULSE Fellows, surpassing the traditional transactional approaches. This shift holds implications for not just theoretical discussions but also tangible outcomes in the realm of change initiatives. Practical Implications Unveiled: Beyond the theoretical discourse, the research suggests a pragmatic approach. Teams intentionally selected for their transformational leadership tendencies exhibit higher success rates in navigating change initiatives compared to those chosen solely for their subject matter expertise. Behavioral Nuances: Notably, the study reveals an unexpected yet crucial link between a leader's level of transformational leadership and increased engagement in change outcomes. This emphasizes the significance of focusing on behavioral aspects in leadership education, a critical consideration for those shaping future leaders. Transactional Leadership Challenges: A surprising discovery surfaces in the form of a negative relationship between transactional leadership and engagement. This signals potential hurdles associated with this leadership style in the context of change initiatives, prompting a reevaluation of its efficacy in such environments. Practical Applications and Future Horizons: These insights not only contribute to refining leadership education curricula but also advocate for a reassessment of leadership selection processes, particularly in change-oriented environments. While acknowledging the study's limitations, including a relatively small sample size, it underscores the necessity for further research to validate and broaden these findings. As we navigate the multifaceted landscape of leadership dynamics, these revelations serve as a valuable compass, providing a path toward more effective leadership strategies in the ever-evolving terrain of higher education. Lamm, A. J., Lamm, K. W., Rodriguez, M. T. & Owens, C. T. (2016). Examining leadership style influence on engagement in a national change process: implications for higher education. Journal of Leadership Education, 15(4), 1-14. https://doi.org/10.12806/v15/i4/r1

In 2011, the Uganda Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services (UFAAS) embarked on a mission to transform the agricultural landscape of Uganda. With a focus on key themes such as policy, climate-smart agriculture, youth engagement, food security, and income generation, UFAAS aimed to usher in an era of innovation and efficiency in agricultural advisory services. UFAAS: The Catalyst for Change Uganda, like many African nations, underwent a significant transformation in its agricultural extension system. The introduction of the National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS) Act led to the replacement of the public extension system with a more privatized approach. This shift aimed to address the pressing issue of one extension professional serving approximately 2000 farmers, creating a need for supplementary support. Advocating Professionalism and Ethical Standards UFAAS, recognizing the importance of setting professional and ethical standards in agricultural advisory services, took proactive steps. Their objective was clear: to promote professionalism and ethics within the agricultural extension and advisory services (AEAS) system in Uganda. Notably, their efforts bore fruit in 2017 when they were invited to support the development of essential documents, including Extension Guidelines, Ethical Code of Conduct, and Proceedings for Registration and Accreditation of AEAS providers. These documents were subsequently approved by the top management team of the Ministry for Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), marking a significant milestone. Supporting Youth in Agriculture One of UFAAS's critical areas of focus is youth engagement in agriculture. With Uganda grappling with high youth unemployment rates and food security challenges, UFAAS recognized the need to bridge the gap between unemployed youth and a career in agriculture. However, this endeavor presented several challenges: Changing Perceptions: Agriculture was often perceived as "dirty" work, discouraging many young individuals from pursuing it as a viable career option. Resource Constraints: For those interested in agriculture, acquiring land, resources, and capital proved to be a formidable barrier. Lack of Exposure: Many youths lacked exposure to agriculture and had limited knowledge about the industry, making informed decisions difficult. The NOFAIP-UFAAS Partnership The case of the Nokia Farming Agricultural Innovation Platform (NOFAIP) exemplifies the impact of UFAAS's efforts. Established in 2010 with fewer than twenty members, NOFAIP saw tremendous growth, boasting over 300 members by 2017. The turning point was NOFAIP's decision to join UFAAS as dues-paying members. This strategic partnership unlocked a trove of knowledge and resources that played a pivotal role in their journey. UFAAS's Approach: Training and Support UFAAS's collaboration with NOFAIP followed a well-structured approach: Understanding Needs: They engaged with NOFAIP to gain a comprehensive understanding of their requirements. Assessing Capabilities: An assessment of existing capabilities and desired ones was carried out. Identifying Resources: UFAAS identified training materials and resources, ensuring that NOFAIP members had access to essential knowledge. Coordinating Training: UFAAS organized training opportunities for NOFAIP members, empowering them with the latest skills and practices. Ongoing Support: UFAAS maintained a consistent support system, adapting to the evolving needs of NOFAIP members. Knowledge Exchange: Collaborations with NOFAIP leadership facilitated the collection of best practices and information to enhance future training. Impact on NOFAIP and Ugandan Youth The results speak for themselves. NOFAIP has flourished, with over 300 registered members, 84 actively engaged in agricultural operations. They offer a wide range of services, from crop spraying to agronomic feedback, plowing, planting, weeding, irrigation, fertilizing, threshing, and market support. This success story demonstrates the tangible benefits of UFAAS's support. The youth in NOFAIP have become a driving force in the field. They've acquired valuable skills, revolutionized agricultural practices, and helped farmers achieve higher yields. For instance, their ability to identify and address challenges such as citrus canker swiftly has saved entire crops from devastation. The Bigger Picture In conclusion, UFAAS's role in nurturing the potential of Uganda's youth and driving agricultural development is commendable. Their support to NOFAIP underscores the importance of training, empowerment, and knowledge exchange in the agricultural sector. It's a promising step towards ensuring the sustainability of Uganda's agriculture and inspiring similar initiatives across the nation and the African continent. I've included a copy of the research below if you are interested in learning more. Please be sure to include your thoughts and input in the comments below. Lamm, K. W., Lamm, A. J., Mulvaney, C., Davis, K., Masambuka, F., & Nahdy, S. (2021). Model of success: Extension services helping Ugandan youth find a career in agriculture. Journal of International Agricultural and Extension Education, 28(3), 7-13.

Food safety is a global concern. However, navigating the complex landscape of the food system is daunting. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that in the United States alone, 48 million people fall ill, 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die from foodborne diseases annually. These staggering statistics emphasize the global significance of food safety research, highlighting its relevance to public health, the economy, and politics. Research in this field encompasses various aspects, such as microbial and chemical contamination, food adulteration, misuse of food additives, mislabeling, genetic modifications, and issues related to dated food. In this blog I'm excited to share research findings from work conducted in collaboration with the University of Georgia Center for Food Safety (CFS). Specifically, we developed a framework to conceptualize food safety issues to focus efforts and improve food safety across the food industry. These efforts were in conjunction with a strategy project helping the UGA CFS define their purpose as an organization (see similar efforts with University of Georgia Extension) As international food supply chains cross multiple borders, the risks associated with food consumption have evolved into a multidimensional concern. These risks now encompass human health, the environment, the economy, animal health, and future generations. As the food industry expands its offerings, including novel foods and advanced processing technologies, the complexity and diversity of food safety challenges continue to grow. The Role of Consumer Trust and Knowledge Consumer perceptions of food safety play a vital role in shaping purchase decisions and how they perceive the health benefits of various food items. Notably, these perceptions also impact food handlers and production workers. Thus, it falls upon policymakers, food safety leaders, and industry influencers to ensure the provision of safe food products. The study underlines the importance of exploring food safety issues from the perspective of industry leaders, whose insights offer a unique vantage point applicable across various contexts. While significant research has focused on consumer perspectives, the study examines food safety through a macro-level, industry-wide lens, bridging the gap between research and application. Key Insights and Recommendations The study identified seven key thematic categories related to food safety: Contamination: General Contamination: Detection Contamination: Outbreaks Contamination: Prevention Governmental Oversight Consumer/Employee Education & Communication Globalization These categories encapsulate a range of critical food safety issues, underlining the interrelated nature of these challenges. The significant overlap among these issues suggests a strong focus on contamination-related concerns, particularly in prevention, detection, and outbreak management. The study highlights the pivotal role of governmental oversight in addressing these challenges. Collaboration and Holistic Oversight To navigate these complex food safety challenges, collaborative efforts that leverage the resources and cooperation of academic, governmental, and industry experts are necessary. A holistic approach to oversight procedures, especially in areas of detection, response, and prevention, can help address these issues effectively. Moreover, addressing global themes like technology, DNA sequencing, and emerging food safety trends is essential. Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities While the study provides valuable insights, food safety remains a multifaceted global concern. Bridging the gap between consumers and industry experts, building trust with regulatory agencies, and addressing evolving challenges through collaboration are the keys to a safer and healthier food future. The source manuscript has been posted if you are interested in learning more. Please be sure to share your thoughts and feedback in the comments section. Lamm, K. W., Randall, N. L., & Diez-Gonzalez, F. (2021). Critical food safety issues facing the food industry: A delphi analysis. Journal of Food Protection, 84(4), 680-687. https://doi.org/10.4315/JFP-20-372

Effective Extension services in the agricultural sector require a profound understanding of their capacity. Assessing Extension capacity comprehensively is the first step in ensuring they meet the diverse needs of farmers and producers. This blog post delves into the power of inclusive extension capacity assessments, emphasizing the importance of considering a wide array of perspectives. These insights and recommendations are based on research I conducted with colleagues recently. Framing the Capacity Assessment Setting the Stage: Extension services play a vital role in educating and assisting farmers in their agricultural endeavors. To ensure their effectiveness, conducting comprehensive assessments of their capacity is imperative. Perspective Matters: The meta-synthesis of existing literature highlights the significance of considering diverse perspectives in extension assessments. Different voices contribute to a richer understanding of extension capacity. Who to Include The Key Players: In capacity assessments, it's essential to involve key respondent groups, including Clientele and Beneficiaries, who directly benefit from services, and Formal Power Roles, such as organizational agents and personnel. Outside Influence: While involving those in Informal Power Roles and Outside Influences is important in some assessments, their role differs from the direct beneficiaries and service providers. Recognizing this distinction is crucial. Purpose-Driven Selection: Tailoring assessments to their intended purpose is essential. Depending on the assessment's goals, specific respondent groups, such as Clientele and Beneficiaries or Informal Power Roles, may be more relevant. Study Results Unveiling Insights: The primary study reveals a range of agreements among experts on which respondent groups should be included in extension capacity assessments. Notably, the clientele's level of inclusion raises surprising observations, emphasizing the need to recognize the importance of local voices. High-Level vs. Local Engagement: Experts prioritize the inclusion of respondent groups operating at the regional or country level, indicating that local representation is often more crucial than higher-level perspectives. Recommendations for the Future Broadening the Scope: In the interest of more inclusive assessments, it's recommended to engage representatives from diverse respondent groups. This shift towards more participatory assessments allows for a deeper understanding of how decisions within one group may affect others. Using the Study’s Insights: To improve future capacity assessments, practitioners should use the results of this study to inform their practices. While the consensus results serve as a guideline, it's essential to adapt the recommendations to different contexts and prioritize higher-consensus groups. Next Steps for Inclusive Extension Capacity Assessments In an ever-evolving agricultural landscape, Extension services must adapt and expand their capacities to meet the diverse and changing needs of producers. Inclusive capacity assessments provide a way to achieve this by involving a broad spectrum of voices. By embracing diverse perspectives and prioritizing local voices, the agricultural sector can enhance the impact and relevance of provided services. The study has been included below for your reference. Please be sure to share your thoughts and insights in the comments below. Lamm, K. W., Powell, A., Lamm, A. J., & Davis, K. (2021). Extension capacity assessment respondents: A meta-synthesis of the literature and a primary study. Journal of International Agricultural and Extension Education, 28(5), 65-95. https://doi.org/10.4148/2831-5960.1031