By Blake Jackson
Kentucky Farm Bureau (KFB) has named Cody and Angela Rakes of Marion County the recipients of its 2026 Young Farmers Excellence in Agriculture Award, recognizing their leadership, agricultural education efforts, conservation practices and community involvement.
The annual award honors individuals or couples ages 18 to 35 who contribute significantly to agriculture through professional achievements, advocacy and service, even when most of their income comes from sources outside their own farming operations.
Both Cody and Angela grew up on family farms, where they developed their passion for agriculture.
Cody earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural education, while Angela holds a bachelor’s degree in community and leadership development. Both also pursued minors in agriculture-related fields.
Cody serves as Director of Farm and Land at Loretto Motherhouse, managing an 800-acre property that includes beef cattle, hay, row crops, managed woodlands, conservation areas and pumpkin production.
The operation incorporates multispecies cover crops, riparian buffers and rotational grazing. Angela works part time as the community’s Education and Outreach Coordinator, organizing educational activities and promoting products from the farm.
The couple also operates a 65-acre pasture-based farm raising cattle, laying hens, sheep and goats, with an emphasis on soil health.
Cody and Angela hold leadership positions with Marion County Farm Bureau and participate in several state agricultural committees. Cody also serves as president of Kentucky’s Forage and Grasslands Council, while Angela volunteers with 4-H and serves on agricultural development, extension and environmental sustainability boards.
Together, they reach more than 3,000 people annually through agricultural education. One major initiative is the Back to School Ag Bash, which attracts more than 600 participants each year. They also organize farm tours, school visits, and free field days covering rotational grazing, forage management, and fencing.
“We’re grateful to Kentucky Farm Bureau for this honor,” said Angela Rakes. “Our goal is to help kids build an appreciation and connection to the land. We’ve seen firsthand that the ones who get involved with agriculture early are more likely to stay with it for life.”
“Kentucky Farm Bureau is proud to recognize Cody and Angela Rakes for their dedication to agriculture and service to others. What stands out about Cody and Angela is their willingness to share what they know and help others succeed," said KFB President Eddie Melton.
"Whether working with fellow farmers, students or neighbors, they understand the importance of getting involved and giving back. That kind of commitment strengthens agriculture and the rural communities we call home.”
The couple will receive a John Deere Gator from Farm Credit Mid-America and represent Kentucky in the national competition at the American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in January 2027.
Keeley Cooper of Madison County placed second, receiving $1,000, while Amber Carpenter of Bath County earned third place and $500.
Photo Credit: kentucky-farm-bureau
Categories: Kentucky, Business