KY Dept of Ag

Save the date! The 2nd annual Kentucky Proud Livestock Classic is coming this fall to the Casey County Ag Expo Center. Learn more & get ready to show: kyagr.com/marketing/kent…

As of 2022, hay is the state’s 6th leading commodity, generating more than $326 million in cash receipts. From supporting livestock operations to strengthening local farms, hay plays an essential role in Kentucky agriculture.

The Food is Medicine measure has advanced to the KY State Senate to improve health through medically tailored meals and culinary education. Nearly half of Americans have a diet-related chronic illness, with rural communities most affected. These efforts also support local ag.

Congratulations to the 2026 Ag Athletes of the Year! These students excel in KHSAA athletics and in agriculture, showcasing dedication and strong work ethic. A special congrats to Alyssa Benningfield and Clayton Lester for being the 2026 Outstanding KY Ag Athletes of the Year.

🌱 Happy National Ag Day! From early mornings in the field to the food on our tables, Kentucky agriculture plays a vital role in our economy, communities, and daily lives. Today, we recognize and thank the farmers and producers whose hard work keeps the Commonwealth growing. 🚜

Last Friday, we wrapped up a week of classroom visits and hands-on learning across the Commonwealth with Ag Ed Week stops in Washington and Anderson Co. schools. Thank you to the students, teachers, and community partners who made this week memorable and impactful!

Day 4 of All In for Ag Education Week took us to Trigg County, where agriculture was front and center in classrooms from elementary through high school. Students took part in real-world connections, while upperclassmen mentored younger students through ag-focused activities.

Day 3 of Ag Education Week took us to Central KY! Students participated in hands-on activities in math, English, science, and more—exploring how ag connects to food, careers, and everyday life. We're excited to see more impactful learning experiences for students this week!

Day 2 of Ag Education Week! Students connected with ag through classroom activities, a virtual farm tour, and the Ask an Aggie panel at Compton Dairy. Visits to Green County Schools and FFA highlighted how ag education is shaping future careers across Kentucky.

The 3rd annual All In for Ag Ed Week kicked off yesterday! Leaders started at Tully Elementary before visiting schools across Jefferson Co. to see ag education in action. Students are gaining hands-on experience and discovering opportunities in agriculture. 🌱

Shared Table at Fasig-Tipton in Lexington brought together food entrepreneurs, makers, and industry leaders for meaningful conversations about the work behind building a food business. Thank you to everyone who gathered for a day of connection and shared insight.

The 40th annual Kentucky Farm Bureau Beef Expo wrapped up with more than $942,000 in total sales at the Kentucky Exposition Center earlier this month. Kentucky continues to showcase the strength of its cattle industry. Learn more: tinyurl.com/2026BeefExpo

Every gallon, every pound, every purchase -- accuracy matters. Kentucky Department of Agriculture Weights & Measures inspectors help ensure fairness for consumers and businesses across the Commonwealth. Read more in this week’s Ag News: tinyurl.com/yb8nvv7e

As of 2022, soybeans rank as Kentucky’s 3rd leading commodity, generating more than $1.3 billion in cash receipts and ranking 14th nationally in production. Most Kentucky farmers use soybean-corn or soybean-corn-winter wheat rotations to support soil health and sustainability.

The Eastern Kentucky Farmer Conference brought producers together for peer-led training, technical assistance, and networking opportunities. Thanks to Deputy Agriculture Commissioner Warren Beeler for department updates and to KDA team members who attended.

In total, that’s 12,431,190 acres of Kentucky farmland. That land supports more than 69,400 farms across the Commonwealth, producing food, fiber, fuel, and forestry products for families here and around the world.

Our Office of Agricultural Policy staff have been on the road attending and presenting at statewide USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) Lender Trainings, CAIP trainings, and FSA loan updates — connecting with partners and supporting Kentucky farmers across the Commonwealth.

Know a conservation champion in KY agriculture? Nominate a farmer or rancher for the 2026 Kentucky Leopold Conservation Award, honoring outstanding stewardship and leadership. One recipient earns $10,000 and statewide recognition.  Learn more & apply: leopoldconservationaward.org

Ag Tag renewal time is here! If you own a farm vehicle, visit your local county clerk’s office and make your $10 Ag Tag donation when renewing your plate. These funds support Kentucky 4-H, FFA, and Kentucky Proud, strengthening ag opportunities for young people across the state.

Happy National Agriculture Month! The KDA team is proud to work alongside farmers across the Commonwealth as we strengthen an industry that's vital to us all. Join us in thanking a farmer, supporting local, and recognizing the agricultural leaders who help keep Kentucky growing.