Kentucky Department of Agricultural announces Raising Hope KY grant-funded projects

“Farming is an inherently stressful occupation, and well-being includes mental and physical aspects,” Commissioner Quarles said. “The Raising Hope Kentucky initiative continues to provide farmers with information about mental health resources and destigmatize mental health issues. The awards given out help continue that progress toward mental health awareness for our farming community.”

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ChallengesColin Wray
Highlights of the 2022 Kentucky Equine Survey

The University of Kentucky and the Kentucky Horse Council, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Service, recently collaborated on the 2022 Kentucky Equine Survey. This was a follow-up to the 2012 Kentucky Equine Survey, which was the first comprehensive study of equine agriculture in Kentucky in more than 30 years.

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HorsesColin Wray
Veatch Farms is the 2023 Kentucky Leopold Conservation Award Winner

Establishing buffer strips, crop rotations, no-till practices, and cover crops have reduced soil erosion and improved water quality at their beef cattle and grain farm. Selective harvesting and thinning overgrowth promote the quality of timber in the farm’s 125 acres of forests. Planting trees and native grasses has created a habitat for wildlife and insect pollinators.

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Ag Commissioner proclaims June as Dairy Month in Kentucky

“In June, we want to celebrate the hard work and resiliency of Kentucky’s dairy farmers,” Commissioner Quarles said. “With the constant pressure on our agriculture producers to adapt to change, we can look at our dairy partners as a group who has made those needed changes and continues to provide the wholesome and nutritious dairy products we have always enjoyed. June is the perfect time to celebrate Dairy Month and honor the service and the hard work of the Kentucky dairy farmer.”

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DairyColin Wray
Celebrating Agriculture: The Heart of State Fairs

State fairs are one of America's beloved traditions, dating back to the early 19th century when agriculture was the backbone of the country's economy. Although society has greatly evolved since then, the significant role of agriculture in state fairs remains unaltered. These fairs not only showcase the finest agricultural produce and livestock but also provide an educative and engaging platform to celebrate and learn about farming and food production.

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Revolutionizing Kentucky Agriculture: Harnessing Robotics for Enhanced Efficiency

Discover how robotics is revolutionizing agriculture in Kentucky. From precision farming and crop monitoring to livestock management and data-driven decision-making, robots are enhancing efficiency, productivity, and sustainability in the state's farming practices. Embrace the transformative power of robotics and unlock the potential for a prosperous and sustainable future in Kentucky's agricultural landscape.

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The Imperative of Agricultural Career Education in Kentucky Schools

Discover the crucial role of agricultural career education in Kentucky schools. This blog emphasizes how these programs prepare students for an evolving industry, promote sustainability, ensure food security, and support Kentucky's economy. The importance of nurturing our next generation of agriculturists is underscored for the preservation of our rich agricultural tradition.

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Edge-of-Field Water Monitoring Program Could Improve Farm Productivity and Water Quality

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) continually works with farmers across the country in the pursuit of improved water quality and finding ways to reduce plant nutrients and soil entering our nation’s waterways. The NRCS national Edge-of-Field Monitoring program, begun in 2013 and conducted in impaired watersheds across the country, measures best management practices to reduce surface water runoff from agricultural lands.

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TechnologyColin Wray
On Dairy Month, who produces the best milk in Kentucky?

Ping Dairy in Pulaski County is the reigning winner of the Kentucky Dairy Development Council’s (KDDC) Highest Milk Quality Award. Members of the Ping family are, from left: Andrea, Adam, Brooklyn, and Haley, along with Haley’s boyfriend, Jaden, who works full-time at the family’s dairy. The Ping family also won the most recent Top Quality Herd Award given by the council last year and five of the past six awards in that category. (KDDC photo)

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DairyColin Wray
The Indispensable Role of Community in Kentucky Agriculture

Kentucky agriculture thrives on its community network, highlighting the power of mutual support and knowledge exchange. This community-centric model promotes agricultural success, boosts the local economy, protects the environment, and cultivates future generations of farmers. The strength of the community is not just beneficial—it's indispensable to Kentucky's agricultural way of life.

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