than single workshops for expanding conservation portfolios. Extension programs should establish demonstration farms, create peer-learning networks for farmer-to-farmer knowledge exchange, host regular field days showcasing practice combinations, and develop decision-support materials comparing practice interactions.

Positioning CMPs as complementary to existing technologies could increase adoption. Farmers investing in GPS-guided equipment or variable-rate systems have demonstrated technical aptitude and financial capacity for conservation practices.

Part-time farmers need different support to transition from single to multiple practices. These farmers face time and labor constraints. Extension programs can help by emphasizing low-labor practices, simplifying program requirements, offering flexible scheduling, and creating networks for sharing strategies.

Tailoring approaches to education levels helps all farmers build confidence in managing multiple CMPs. Develop stepwise adoption pathways that allow farmers to master one practice before adding another, create hands-on training modules that build skills progressively, and establish mentorship programs pairing experienced conservation farmers with beginners.

In counties with steep terrain, conservation programming must acknowledge the challenges of implementation. Focus on feasible practices, provide intensive technical assistance, and consider higher cost-share rates where conservation is more difficult.

Limited access to information and resource constraints have led to low adoption of conservation practices among Kentucky farmers. Multi-channel information delivery and tailored support are essential to ensure the adoption of multiple practices. Strengthening networks through demonstration farms, peer learning, and field days improves adoption intensity. Supporting part-time farmers with flexible practices and bundling CMPs with precision agriculture technologies helps more Kentucky farmers expand conservation portfolios.

Professor of Geospatial Applications, Climate Studies, and Human Dimensions, 502-597-6029 Buddh.gyawali@kysu.edu

Research Associate Atwood Research Facility, Room 213, KYSU 502-401-8941 Ife.familusi1@kysu.edu

Suraj Upadhaya, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Sustainable Systems, KYSU

Maheteme Gebremedhin, Ph.D. Chair, School of Agriculture and Natural Resources Associate Professor, Soil Science, KYSU

Familusi, I., Gyawali, B., Upadhaya, S., Oli, D., Pandeya, S., Paudel, K., & Gebremedhin, M. (2025). Drivers of Conservation Management Practice Adoption and Intensity in Kentucky. Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, 102617. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jafr.2025.102617

This research was primarily funded by the “Enhancing Productivity, Diversification, and Sustainability By Infusing Geospatial Technology In Small And Medium-Sized Farms. USDA/AFRI (Award # 2019-68006-29330) and USDA-Evans Allen Grants “Studying Long-term Agroecosystems Changes in Reclaimed Mine Land Properties in Eastern Kentucky” (Accession # 7005721), and “Ecological Resilience and Extreme Weather Events: Impacts on Small Farmers, Landowners, Rural & Urban Communities” (Accession #7003276).