Kentucky board approves $2.4M for agriculture growth

By Blake Jackson

The Kentucky Agricultural Development Board (KADB) is investing in the future of the state's agriculture by approving $2,457,173 for various projects promoting diversification and rural development.

“The Kentucky Agricultural Development Board’s focus on diversifying our state’s agriculture is a true testament to the strong future the board is helping to create,” said Commissioner of Agriculture and board chair Jonathan Shell. “The grant projects approved today are just some of the building blocks on which that future is being built. Every step forward is a step toward a better tomorrow.”

Funding for Key Projects

• Logan Premium Meats & Processing LLC: Awarded up to $1 million ($500,000 state forgivable loan, $500,000 KADF participation loan) to expand their facility and increase processing capacity. (Contact: Chris Milam, Cmilam@hamptonpremiummeats.com.)
• Shelby Veterinary Clinic, PLLC: Received $22,840 from Shelby County and state funds through the Large and Food Animal Veterinary Incentives Program to purchase an ultrasound machine. (Contact: Dr. Rocky Oliver, rolivern@gmail.com.)
• University of Kentucky Research Foundation: Granted $176,073 in state funds over a year to support the state's Viticulture and Enology Extension Program. (Contact: Patsy E. Wilson, patsy.wilson@uky.edu)
• Wonderlich Veterinary Services, PLLC: Awarded $15,347 from Shelby County and state funds through the Large and Food Animal Veterinary Incentives Program to purchase ultrasound equipment. (Contact: Holly Wonderlich, ryan.wonderlich@gmail.com)

County Programs

The Kentucky Agricultural Development Board also approved funding for various county-level programs:

County Agricultural Investment Program (CAIP): Provides cost-share assistance to Kentucky producers for improving and diversifying their farms. Nine CAIPs totaling $1,165,313 were approved across Ballard, Bell, Bourbon, Breathitt, Casey, Fulton, Lee, Marion, and Trimble counties.

Deceased Farm Animal Removal (DAR): Supports the environmentally sound and cost-effective disposal of deceased livestock. Two DARs totaling $17,500 were approved in Bourbon and Mason counties.

Youth Agricultural Incentives Program (YAIP): Encourages youth involvement in agriculture. Three YAIPs totaling $60,100 were approved in Bourbon, Mercer, and Spencer counties.

Specific application details and deadlines for CAIP and YAIP programs will be announced locally.

Photo Credit: kentucky-agricultural-board