Small-scale farmers using a FAMACHA diagnostic tool with Urban Regional Extension Agent Lauren Shortnacy

On August 12, 2025, the Alabama Cooperative Extension System at Alabama A&M University (AAMU) collaborated with faculty and staff from AAMU’s Small Farms Research Center to offer a workshop for small farmers. The workshop was held at the North Alabama State Fairgrounds in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. The event brought together experts and small farmers to share effective solutions for internal parasite control in small ruminants and integrated pest management (IPM) in fruits and vegetables.

The program included the following Alabama Extension and AAMU faculty and staff:

• Extension Animal Scientist Felix U. Samuel
• Urban Regional Extension Agent Lauren Shortnacy
• Integrated Pest Management Specialist Clement Akotsen-Mensah
• Urban Regional Extension Agent Marcus Garner
• AAMU Professor Colmore Christian
• Program Assistant Oppia Burke

Together, their contributions ensured a holistic approach to small farm productivity and resilience.

Program Agenda

Training sessions covered practical and science-based techniques, including fecal egg count analysis, FAMACHA scoring, and IPM strategies. This training helped small farmers reduce chemical dependency, improve livestock health, and enhance crop protection. Ninety-five percent of the attendees reported that the training exceeded their expectations and requested similar training in the future. The small farmers highlighted the hands-on demonstrations and the collaborative atmosphere as key strengths of the training.

The workshop reflected Alabama Extension’s strong commitment to supporting small farm viability, advancing sustainable agriculture, and equipping Alabama producers with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive.