Tanya Berry farms named 2024 Small Farmer of the Year

By Blake Jackson

Tanya Berry, owner of Berry Farms in Monticello, Kentucky, has been named the 2024 Small Farmer of the Year by Kentucky State University (KSU).

Berry and her husband, John, have built a successful small farming operation focused on providing fresh produce to their local community.

Starting with a modest investment, the Berrys have steadily expanded their greenhouse operation and produce store. Their dedication to quality and customer service has made them a vital resource for the community, particularly in an area lacking nearby grocery stores.

Tanya's entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to embrace new ideas have been instrumental in their success. With the support of the KSU extension office, the Berrys were able to secure a Small-Scale Farm Grant in 2020, enabling them to invest in a larger greenhouse and further expand their production.

“Where we live in our community, there’s no grocery store for over 17 miles east of us, and that helps our neighbors to be able to stop here and get their cucumbers for supper or get their mess of beans for Sunday dinner and I love being part of this process,” said Tanya.

John, who shares his wife's passion for farming, is constantly seeking ways to improve their operations. "My mind is probably like hers," he said. "I’m always trying to figure out how to make it better and more efficient to help it on her side of growing."

Danny Adams and Glen Roberts, extension agents from KSU, have been instrumental in supporting the Berrys' endeavors.

They recognize the couple's commitment to their community and their dedication to sustainable farming practices.

“They’ve both been doing an excellent job of doing their farming here on two acres with putting in the store and putting in the greenhouse and their high tunnel,” said Danny. “One of the things I admire about them is, every year they want to try to do things and try to do them better.”

Photo Credit: kentucky-state-university