By Blake Jackson
Precision Conservation Management (PCM), in partnership with the Kentucky Corn Growers Association (KY Corn), has expanded its program into Kentucky’s Bourbon Region, creating new opportunities for corn, soybean, and small grain producers.
This program helps farmers boost profitability while adopting proven conservation practices that improve soil health and water quality.
Since its start in 2015, PCM has grown from serving farmers in Illinois and western Kentucky watersheds to supporting growers in four states by 2025. The program focuses on nitrogen management, reduced tillage, and cover crops.
Farmers who enroll in PCM receive free technical assistance, personalized data analysis, and access to incentive programs designed to enhance their operations sustainably.
KY Corn expanded PCM to Central Kentucky recognizing the importance of local markets for corn. Distillers need to document reduced carbon footprints, working with farmers to add value to their corn in these sustainability efforts.
About 70% of corn used by Kentucky Distillers Association (KDA) members comes from local farmers, making PCM a valuable link between agriculture and the bourbon industry.
To serve the Bourbon Region, PCM has hired Daniel Carpenter as a new Conservation Specialist. Carpenter brings years of experience as an Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Agent. He said, “In my career as an extension agent I always valued the time I got to spend working directly with farmers… It is even more rewarding when that resolution is something that improves their bottom line.”
The Bourbon Region includes counties such as Breckenridge, Hardin, Nelson, Jefferson, Shelby, and Franklin among others. With KDA’s support, PCM builds on its western Kentucky success, helping farmers identify their most profitable conservation strategies.
As supply chain environmental concerns grow, PCM’s expansion ensures more Kentucky farmers can benefit from programs that improve both economic returns and sustainability. To learn more or enroll, farmers can visit www.precisionconservation.org.
Photo Credit: istock-fotokostic
Categories: Kentucky, Crops, Corn