Kentucky Department of Agriculture

06/19/2026

“I believe in the future of agriculture…”

At the Kentucky FFA State Convention, students were asked to share where they see their future in the agriculture industry. Their answers are a powerful reminder that agriculture’s future is bright - driven by passion, leadership, and the next generation of innovators.

From farming and education to advocacy and innovation, these students are excited about what is ahead for agriculture in Kentucky.
Hear how FFA members finish the sentence and share their goals, dreams, and aspirations for the industry.

06/19/2026

06/17/2026

June is Dairy Month, and we are proud to celebrate Kentucky’s dairy farmers in a big way! 🥛🐄

Commissioner Jonathan Shell officially signed the Dairy Month proclamation at the Lexington Legends baseball game before throwing out the ceremonial first pitch. It was a great night celebrating and honoring the hardworking dairy farmers who make such an important impact on Kentucky agriculture.

A special thank you to the Kentucky Dairy Development Council for hosting a memorable night for so many families!

For more pictures, click the link: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCWRwd

06/16/2026

This one is for the Kentucky Proud Dairy Exhibitors! ⬇️ 🐄

Kentucky agriculture is built on strong traditions, dedicated families, and the next generation of producers. If you're planning to attend or participate in the Liberty District Dairy Show, be sure to take note of the updated location information below.

06/15/2026

Join us at Hang Loose Pawpaw Patch as owner Matt Menegotto shares how he built an orchard featuring 15 pawpaw varieties and why preserving and promoting native plants matters. From experimenting with different cultivars to educating consumers about North America's largest native fruit, Matt is helping grow interest in a uniquely Kentucky crop.

06/15/2026

Kentucky's farmers grow the food, fiber, and fuel that keep our Commonwealth strong. Join us for the Third Annual Commissioner's Farm to Fork Benefit Dinner as we celebrate Kentucky agriculture, enjoy Kentucky Proud products, and support a great cause.

Get your tickets today! 🌾🍽️

Join us for the Third Annual Commissioner's Farm to Fork Benefit Dinner on August 19 at the Kentucky State Fair! 🌾🍽️

Enjoy an evening featuring Kentucky Proud food while supporting CASA and creating opportunities for Kentucky's youth. We look forward to celebrating Kentucky agriculture and making a difference together.

Purchase your tickets today!

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-commissioners-farm-to-fork-benefit-dinner-tickets-1991221136020?aff=oddtdtcreator

06/13/2026

Food is Medicine continues to demonstrate how agriculture and healthcare can work together to improve lives across Kentucky. 🌾🥕

Thankful for the partnership with Taylor Regional Hospital and everyone involved in making this event a success. By connecting patients with nutritious, Kentucky-grown foods, we are supporting healthier communities while creating new opportunities for our farm families.

06/12/2026

Another great Kentucky FFA State Convention in the books!

The Kentucky Department of Agriculture enjoyed connecting with FFA members, educators, and supporters from across the state. Commissioner Jonathan Shell spoke during the 5th session, highlighting the future of Kentucky agriculture and engaging with students shaping the industry. KDA staff and interns did a great job representing the department at the 97th KY FFA Convention and Expo.

Thank you, Kentucky FFA, for a great week!
Photos Here: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCWriW

06/11/2026

Kentucky agriculture leaders and industry partners recently joined Commissioner Jonathan Shell, USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke Lindberg, and USDA Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation Richard Fordyce for a roundtable discussion on the state of agriculture in the Commonwealth. The conversation focused on the challenges and opportunities facing Kentucky farmers and the work being done to support agriculture now and into the future.

06/10/2026

Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell has issued a statement regarding the detection of New World Screwworm in the United States.

At this time, there have been no cases detected in Kentucky. Current detections are limited to Texas and New Mexico.