By Blake Jackson
Kentucky Farm Bureau (KFB) has recognized Kori Beth Thomas of Allen County as the 2024 Farm Woman of the Year. This prestigious award honors outstanding women in the state's agricultural sector.
Thomas, along with runners-up Jennifer Poole of Daviess County and Kristan Wright of Jefferson County, will be celebrated at KFB's Gold Star Luncheon in December.
“Kori Beth Thomas is a shining example of excellence and innovation in production agriculture,” said KFB President Eddie Melton. “Not only is she making an impact through her work on her family farm, Kori has proven herself to be a leader and advocate for farmers at the local, state, and national levels. Her efforts are helping to ensure that current and future generations develop the same knowledge and passion for farming as she has.”
Thomas and her husband, Micah, own and operate Peach Tree Farm and Greenhouse in Scottsville, Kentucky. Their third-generation farm encompasses commercial beef cattle, an orchard, pumpkin production, and row crops.
In recent years, they've expanded their operations to include an agritourism venue and a retail garden center, offering plants and other products. A graduate of Western Kentucky University, Thomas is a dedicated farmer and mother.
“Farming is not just a career,” said Thomas. “It is a way of life. A true calling. An unidentified genetic marker of sorts that you could not get out of you even if you tried. We go into production agriculture knowing that rarely is it a 9-5 job. Rather, we are on call 24 hours a day.” But, she added, “we are eternal optimists at heart. We understand that we must overcome the obstacles that are set before us.”
Thomas' commitment to agriculture extends beyond her family farm. She's actively involved in various community organizations and serves as a USDA representative for local Ag Development funds. She's also a dedicated volunteer for 4-H, youth sports, and other community initiatives.
Jennifer Poole, a runner-up for the Farm Woman of the Year award, is a dedicated advocate for agriculture and women in leadership.
Jennifer Poole and her husband, Wes, operate Poole Farms in Lewisport, Kentucky, where they raise turkeys, cattle, and row crops. Poole's involvement in the Daviess County Extension Office and 4-H demonstrates her commitment to community engagement.
Kristan Wright, another runner-up, is a leader in Jefferson County's farming industry and an agriculture educator.
Kristan Wright and her husband, Daniel, operate multiple farming operations and raise a variety of livestock and crops. Wright is also a dedicated teacher and FFA advisor, passionate about sharing her love of agriculture with students.
Photo Credit: kentucky-farm-bureau
Categories: Kentucky, Business