LEXINGTON, Ky. – Recognizing the escalating threat of billion-dollar weather disasters, the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension has launched strategically developed Kentucky Extension Strike Teams to bolster the state’s disaster preparedness and response capabilities. This critical initiative was made possible through a recent development grant from the Extension Disaster Education Network (EDEN).
The urgency of this effort is underscored by the stark reality of 2023, which saw 28 separate weather or climate disasters across the United States, each inflicting at least $1 billion in damages. In Kentucky alone, the frequency of such events is on the rise. According to UK Meteorologist Matt Dixon, “Kentucky has experienced a disturbing increase in ‘Billion’ dollar weather disasters – a total of 84 since 1980, with 5 of those devastating events occurring in 2022 alone.”
Leveraging the EDEN grant, the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension proactively addressed the pressing need for a more coordinated and effective disaster response framework. The cornerstone of this effort is the establishment of regional Extension Strike Teams. These specialized teams, composed of trained county agents and staff, will provide crucial on-the-ground support to communities impacted by disasters.
The project encompassed a comprehensive approach, including the recruitment and specialized training of extension professionals. In collaboration with EDEN, Kentucky Emergency Management, and the Kentucky Department of Public Health, the project team meticulously developed clear position descriptions and targeted training materials. Regular, realistic training exercises are integral to ensuring the teams are deployment-ready.
A significant and far-reaching outcome of this grant is the creation of a comprehensive toolkit designed to empower other states in developing their own Extension Disaster Strike Teams. This valuable resource includes practical guidance on recruitment strategies, detailed training checklists, effective team development methodologies, suggested training modules, and partnership cultivation strategies.
“This initiative will allow Extension leaders to learn from established strike team models and, crucially, implement a pilot strike team program within Kentucky Cooperative Extension,” explained Jeffery Young, project team leader. “Furthermore, the development of a national toolkit will provide a roadmap for other states to build their own resilient disaster response networks.”
The impact and effectiveness of the Kentucky Extension Strike Teams will be rigorously evaluated through data gathered at meetings and training sessions, complemented by agent feedback collected via online evaluation forms. This commitment to continuous improvement will ensure the ongoing success and adaptability of the program.
