By Blake Jackson
Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell is embarking on a statewide tour to promote the Ag Tag Program, emphasizing its crucial role in supporting Kentucky's agricultural youth and future.
“Today’s youth are the future for tomorrow’s agriculture,” Commissioner Shell said. “For years, people renewing their farm license plates have been given the opportunity to strengthen that future by donating to the Ag Tag fund. Through the years, millions have been donated, and our youth are the ones benefiting.”
During his visits with FFA and 4-H members, Shell highlights the significant impact of the Ag Tag program on these organizations.
The program allows farm license plate owners to make a $10 donation upon renewal, with the funds distributed equally among Kentucky 4-H, Kentucky FFA, and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA).
Last year, the Ag Tag program achieved a record-breaking $931,201.81 in donations, providing each group with $310,400.60 to reinvest in youth development and promotional initiatives.
The KDA utilizes its share of the funds to support programs such as Ag Athlete of the Year scholarships, the Kentucky Leopold Conservation Award, Kentucky Women in Agriculture, and Kentucky Agriculture and Environment in the Classroom.
For 4-H and FFA, half of the donations are returned to local councils and chapters, empowering them to fund camps, leadership programs, and other essential needs.
“FFA and 4-H are two of the leading youth organizations in Kentucky and the nation. While they work to prepare youth to take on the challenges agriculture faces, KDA works every day to promote Kentucky’s farmers,” Commissioner Shell said.
“This year’s Ag Tag campaign theme is ‘Bluegrass Beginnings, Boundless Futures,’ reflecting the true connection between the Commonwealth and agriculture. Funding from your voluntary donations helps all three organizations fulfill our mission to sustain Kentucky agriculture for future generations.”
Commissioner Shell encourages all farm license plate owners to consider making the $10 donation when renewing their Ag Tags, contributing to the continued growth and success of Kentucky's agricultural youth programs.
Photo Credit: kentucky-agricultural-board
Categories: Kentucky, Business