Kentucky Ag Board Approves $292K for Farm Development

By Blake Jackson

The Kentucky Agricultural Development Board has approved $292,722 in funding for various agricultural diversification and rural development initiatives across the state during its recent monthly meeting.

"The Kentucky Agricultural Development Board continues to be a good steward of the Tobacco Master Settlement money," said Jonathan Shell, Commissioner of Agriculture and Chair of the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board. "The projects approved today will continue to strengthen the economic viability of Kentucky agriculture, creating benefits for farm families and the state as a whole."

Several county and state-funded programs received approval:

• Kentucky Halal Meats, LLC was allocated up to $1,350 in state funds for consultation fees as part of the Food Safety and Efficiency Incentives Program. For details, contact Ergash Aripov at aripov.ergash@gmail.com.
• Metcalfe County 4-H Council, Incorporated was granted up to $2,063 from Metcalfe County funds to purchase 40 hams for 4-H members. For more information, reach out to Allison Clemmons at Allison.caffee@yahoo.com.

State Programs

The On-Farm Energy Efficiency Incentives Program is designed to help Kentucky farm families improve the energy efficiency of their existing farm equipment and facilities. A total of $53,591 was approved for six farms in the following counties:

• Breckenridge: $10,300
• Carlisle: $10,300
• Graves: $5,181
• Ohio: $7,210
• Rockcastle: $10,300
• Union: $10,300

County Programs

The County Agricultural Incentive Program (CAIP) supports agricultural producers with cost-share assistance for projects aimed at improving and diversifying their farm operations. Two projects, totaling $176,718, were approved in Floyd and Jessamine counties.

The Deceased Farm Animal Removal (DAR) Program was allocated $12,500 for Hardin County to assist with livestock disposal.

The Youth Agricultural Incentives Program (YAIP) received $30,000 for youth agricultural initiatives in Casey County.

The Shared-Use Equipment Program in Mercer County was awarded $16,500 for farm equipment purchases available for local producers to lease.

All application periods and deadlines for CAIP and YAIP will be advertised locally.

Photo Credit: kentucky-agricultural-board