Kentucky Farmers Gain Access to USDA Mediation Program

By Blake Jackson

The Kentucky Center for Agriculture and Rural Development (KCARD) has reached a significant milestone by joining the USDA’s Certified Agricultural Mediation Program, making certified mediation services available to Kentucky farm families for the first time.

This development is especially meaningful for the state’s agricultural sector, as Kentucky had previously been among the few states without a USDA-certified agricultural mediation center.

With KCARD now filling that gap, farm families will have improved access to resources that support communication, conflict resolution, and long-term planning.

The certification highlights KCARD’s ongoing commitment to adapting its services to meet the changing needs of the agricultural community.

“At KCARD, we continuously evolve our services to support Kentucky farm families where they need it most. This program represents our commitment to helping producers navigate the future with confidence and strengthen the long-term vitality of Kentucky agriculture,” said Brent Lackey, KCARD Executive Director.

Through funding from the USDA program, KCARD can now provide a range of mediation and related services aimed at helping farmers address challenges, improve dialogue, and move forward with clarity without financial burden.

Agricultural mediation is a voluntary and confidential process that brings involved parties together with a neutral third party. The goal is to foster productive communication, explore possible solutions, and reach mutually beneficial agreements.

While mediation can assist in resolving disputes, it does not replace legal representation, and mediators do not offer legal advice or prepare legal documents.

These services can address a variety of issues, including disputes related to agricultural loans-whether issued, guaranteed by the USDA, or provided by third parties as well as family farm transition and succession planning.

Importantly, these services are offered at no cost to farm families, ensuring equal access regardless of operation size or financial standing. This initiative strengthens KCARD’s ability to support farmers through challenges and provide a constructive path forward for Kentucky agriculture.

For more information, contact KCARD at (859) 417-2592 or KASP@kcard.info.

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