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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McGlones Farms

In Carter County lies the town of Grayson. It is home to McGlone Farms and Kee’s Farm Service. McGlone Farms has been in operation for six generations and traces its roots back to 1883. Kee’s Farm Service hasn’t been around nearly that long, but about ten years ago, it was purchased by Hannah and Jason McGlone, and business has certainly changed since Hannah took over. 

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Not Your Daddy's Drone

Farmers are always thinking, and many spend a great deal of time trying to figure out how to bring their kids back to the farm or how to make their operation such that there is enough cash flow to support the next generation.  One component of the agriculture industry that is especially appealing to younger farmers is that of precision ag.

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Soil Erosion in Kentucky

Erosion can be a very gradual process. Naturally, erosion occurs everywhere. Energy in rain drops or wind detaches particles at the soil surface, then moves these mineral and carbon particles downslope or down-wind to another location.   In the Great Plains and further west, this energy is most often provided by the wind. But in the east, including Kentucky, the energy is provided in the form of raindrops.  

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Ham it Up

If there’s a product more authentically Kentucky than bourbon, it’s country ham. Curing-savvy European immigrants came to America with hams aboard ship, and they continued that preservation tradition long after moving into what would become the Bluegrass State. 

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PorkColin Wray