Connecting with small scale, urban, hobby, and community garden farmers through video mediums and Facebook live

ABSTRACT

Small scale producers often visit non-science-based websites in search of general and specific information about horticulture and livestock, disease and pest pressure and cultural conditions required to grow crops. During the COVID-19 pandemic, alternative educational outreach was required to continue supporting the needs of agricultural producers. Several Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems Extension Agents teamed up and utilized Facebook Live or posted videos on their county Facebook page to reach wide range of urban and rural small-farm producers on an array of agricultural topics. Using this platform gives exposure to science-based information on social media platforms where many producers are already active. An added benefit to using Facebook Live and videos is that community gardeners and home gardeners can access the same information, which provides them with tools for increased success in growing food for home consumption. From zero downloads in March 2020, the downloads grew to more than 6000 views by August 2020. As of August 2020, 21% (n = 1207) of the viewers engaged in comments and 12% (n = 146) the viewers who commented requested additional information. Many growers have expressed their appreciation for the information in this alternative teaching style.