By Blake Jackson
Kentucky State University showcased a wide range of agricultural innovations and educational programs at the Kentucky State Fair, giving visitors hands-on exposure to emerging food production systems, sustainable agriculture, aquaculture, forestry, and public health research.
One of the exhibit's most popular attractions featured live shrimp and aquaponic systems demonstrating how fish and plants can be raised together in controlled environments. Researchers highlighted efforts to improve domestic seafood production through indoor farming technologies.
“Shrimp is the nation’s most popular seafood; however, about 85% of U.S. shrimp is imported, and Kentucky State’s Aquatic Research Team is working to change that,” said Dr. Andrew J. Ray, associate professor and chair of the School of Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences.
The university also showcased hydroponic and aquaponic systems that can help produce food in urban areas and locations with limited farmland. Visitors learned how these technologies can support local food production while using resources efficiently.
Beyond advanced farming systems, the exhibit featured a model milking cow, a walk-through chicken tractor, forestry demonstrations, chainsaw safety displays, and educational exhibits focused on natural resource management.
Pawpaw research also drew significant interest. Kentucky State researchers shared information about cultivating the native fruit and discussed its growing popularity in commercial products. The university maintains one of the nation’s largest pawpaw research collections, supporting ongoing studies in genetics, production, and commercialization.
Kentucky State’s outreach extended to pollinator conservation, insect management, and skin cancer awareness for agricultural workers. Faculty, staff, students, and volunteers interacted with nearly 20,000 fairgoers during the 11-day event.
According to exhibit coordinator Megan Goins, engagement was a key measure of success.
“This exhibit succeeded because so many people worked together to create an experience that was informative, practical, and inviting,” Goins said. “Visitors did more than look at displays. They asked questions, interacted with the exhibits, and discovered new ways agriculture connects with their lives.”
The fair also helped promote future educational programs, including Kentucky State’s upcoming Ag Roundup, which introduces students to agriculture through hands-on learning experiences.
Reflecting on the university’s role, Dr. Marcus Bernard, dean of the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources, emphasized the importance of connecting research with communities.
“A land-grant institution brings research, learning, and Cooperative Extension together in service to people and communities,” Dr. Bernard said. “Our State Fair exhibit gave Kentuckians an opportunity to experience that mission firsthand, from emerging food-production technologies and commercial applications of research to practical knowledge they can use at home.”
The exhibit demonstrated how Kentucky State continues to blend agricultural tradition with innovative technologies, helping educate the public while supporting future opportunities in food production, conservation, and community development.
Photo Credit: kentucky-state-university
Categories: Kentucky, Education, General