Applied Economics Teaching Resources

an AAEA Journal

Agricultural and Applied Economics Association

Extension Education

Cultivating Farmers, Connections, and Careers: The Utah Urban and Small Farms Conference Experience

Katie Wagner(a), Kynda Curtis(a), Ruby Ward(a), Melanie Stock(a), and Sheriden Hansen(a)
(a)Utah State University

JEL Codes: JEL Codes: Q12, Q13, Q14, Q15, Q16
Keywords: Career development, conference, Extension programming, impacts, producers, urban and small farms

First Published Online: June 11, 2025

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Abstract

The Utah Urban and Small Farms Conference (USFC) provides outreach to new and existing small and urban agricultural producers facing urbanization and environmental challenges. The annual event attracts agricultural producers, home gardeners, stakeholders, and representatives and organizations in Utah and across the United States. Themed sessions given by producers, government personnel, and Extension faculty result in information adoption and implementation, community partnerships, and Extension educational outreach, influencing professional careers and urban agriculture governance. The USFC model may assist organizations and communities facing similar challenges, helping urban and small farmers navigate obstacles and opportunities through education and information sharing.

Katie Wagner is an Extension Professor with Utah State University Extension. Kynda Curtis is a Professor and Extension Specialist at Utah State University (Corresponding Author Email: kynda.curtis@usu.edu). Ruby Ward is a Professor and Extension Specialist at Utah State University. Melanie Stock is an Associate Professor and Extension Specialist at Utah State University. Sheriden Hansen is an Extension Associate Professor with Utah State University Extension.

This research was supported by the Utah Agricultural Experiment Station, Utah State University, and approved as journal paper number #9577. The USU IRB determined that the evaluations mentioned do not qualify as human subjects research (Protocol #: 14353).

Copyright is governed under Creative Commons CC BY-NC-SA

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