Tennessee

TN AgrAbility exhibited at the 2026 Ladies Raising Livestock Conference which was held February 19-20 in Greeneville at the Clyde Austin 4-H Center. Dr. Shelli Rampold, TN AgrAbility PI, presented on mitigating farm disaster risk so farmers can keep doing what they love. This two-day event brought together livestock producers for hands-on workshops, trade show exhibits, networking opportunities, and an inspiring keynote address from nationally recognized speaker Coach Kiah. New additions for 2026 - three pre-conference tours: FarmHer, MechanicHer, or MarketHer.

Visual impairment affects an estimated 2.2 billion people worldwide - nearly one in three individuals - according to the World Health Organization. Ranging from low vision to complete blindness, vision loss remains a significant global health challenge. During February, in recognition of Low Vision Awareness Month, the STAR Center, TN AgrAbility's nonprofit partner, highlighted the importance of accessibility and support for individuals with low vision. Through education and outreach, the Center helped increase understanding of low vision and demonstrated how targeted resources and community support can make a meaningful difference.

Sow 2 Grow is a summer program that helps teens with disabilities build confidence, teamwork, and workplace-appropriate social skills through hands-on gardening. Offered at UT Gardens Knoxville, a partner with TN AgrAbility, the program provides a supportive, engaging environment focused on growth and independence. Registration is now open for the three-week Sow 2 Grow Level 1 - Basics program. Learn more at https://utianews.tennessee.edu/sow-2-grow-experience-helps-teens-with-disabilities-learn-life-skills/.

Other News

AgrAbility promoted on social media during Grain Bin Safety Week. There's no "off-season" for safety-grain entrapment can happen in seconds during maintenance or cleanout. A few extra minutes of caution can save a life. Staff attended a Grain Weevil Field Day at the Grant Farms/KCL Ag Innovations in Henry County. Staff was able to run the grain weevil inside a grain bin and visually see what it does. Just because a person monitors their grain, doesn't mean they are managing it. Real control starts when one can safely move stored grain and keep conditions working in their favor without ever having to step inside a grain bin or pick up a shovel. Being safe is firsthand. Take a moment to review safety steps and share this message with a farmer you care about. Grain Weevil video.

Submitted by Tennessee AgrAbility