Commissioner Jonathan Shell

May is Beef Month in Kentucky!

The top five Kentucky counties for number of beef cattle are:
Barren
Pulaski
Madison
Breckinridge
Bourbon

Thank you to the hardworking farm families who help provide high-quality Kentucky beef year-round.

Big wins for Kentucky agriculture coming out of the 2026 legislative session! 🌾👏 From major investments to new opportunities for farmers and rural communities, this session was all about moving Kentucky agriculture forward. Excited for the momentum we’re building and the future ahead for our ag industry!

2026 legislative session created investments, opportunities for agriculture industry FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 13, 2026) – The 2026 Kentucky legislative session delivered one of the most impactful and forward-looking outcomes for agriculture in recent history, securing major investments, expanding opportunities for farmers, and strengthening the future of the Commonwealth’s farming in...

Farmers market season is one of the best times of year in Kentucky! 🌾🍓 From fresh produce and local meats to baked goods and handmade products, our farmers markets are a great way to support Kentucky growers and small businesses while enjoying the best our communities have to offer. Be sure to shop local this season!

Your 2026 guide to 20+ farmers markets in the Louisville area Spring is in full force, and that means it's farmers market season. Here's what to know about these 26 Louisville-area farmers markets.

Excited to see another great opportunity connecting Kentucky students with agriculture through school gardens and hands-on learning. Programs like the School Garden Squash Challenge help students learn where their food comes from while encouraging creativity, teamwork, and healthy habits.

Congratulations to all of the talented students recognized in this year’s Kentucky Department of Agriculture Poster and Essay Contest! 🌾🎨✍️ It’s inspiring to see young Kentuckians showcasing their creativity while highlighting the importance of agriculture and the pride we all share in our farming communities.

https://www.wnky.com/five-local-students-named-winners-in-kdas-annual-poster-and-essay-contest/

communities.co

Bring Kentucky’s farms to your table 🍽️

Applications are open for Kentucky Proud Farm to Fork Dinners, an opportunity to host a community event featuring locally sourced ingredients, supporting Kentucky farmers, and giving back to a local charity.

Approved events may receive up to $750 in reimbursement for Kentucky-grown food and promotional costs.

Apply now and start planning your Farm to Fork experience: https://tinyurl.com/46543eue

It’s Beef Month, and there’s no better place to celebrate than Kentucky—the top beef cattle state east of the Mississippi. Here’s to the hardworking producers who keep our agricultural heritage strong. 🐄

Ky, biggest cattle state east of Mississippi, celebrating Beef Month Kentucky cattle producers and industry representatives joined Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell Monday as he signed a proclamation commemorating the month of May as Kentucky Beef Month.

Kentucky pride was on full display at Thurby. 🌹 The Mamzelle Stakes (GIII), presented by Kentucky Proud, highlighted the excitement of race day while celebrating what makes our state special. Congratulations to Cy Fair on the win! 🏇

Bloom by bloom, the Derby tradition comes to life. 🌹✨