2007 evaluation of the Michigan State University Extension Sugarbeet Advancement program: A descriptive case study

The Michigan Sugarbeet Advancement (SBA) program was initiated in 1997 to help sugar beet farmers adapt to economic and environmental changes through research and dissemination. In 2006 an evaluative study was conducted to understand SBA's impacts on Michigan's sugar beet industry. It attempted to understand (a) the credibility of SBA in beet research and educational information (b) SBA's dissemination of research-based information to growers (c) changes in sugar beet production practices by the growers due to this information. The study also attempted to learn about sugar beet grower concerns and specific suggestions from growers for educational program offerings.After a careful review of SBA activities during the past ten years and discussion with SBA Michigan State University Extension Educator and affiliated growers, a survey instrument utilizing traditional mailing methods, was developed and delivered to MI sugar beet farmers. The population included 1,342 sugar beet growers across Michigan. The survey was administered during January-March 2007. The survey had a response rate of 23.4 percent.