Describe the Issue or Situation.

With a staggering $1 billion impact and $359,967,000 in products sold across 960 farms, WAVE AG Day 2024 once again spotlighted the vital role of agriculture in Ballard, Carlisle, Fulton, and Hickman Counties. Held for the seventh year, the event took place on August 1 at Columbus Belmont State Park, running from 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM. The familiar theme, "Let’s Grow With It," continued to inspire the agricultural community.

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable).

WAVE AG Day is a collaborative effort, bringing together the four county judge executives, UKY Ag agents from each county, agricultural businesses, County Farm Bureaus, River Valley Ag Credit, and many others. The planning for this event involved numerous meetings throughout the year, with ANR and FCS agents from each county playing crucial roles. Generous sponsors supported the event, with platinum sponsors presenting prestigious awards: Farmer of the Year, Ag Business of the Year, Friend of Agriculture Award, Young Farmer Award, Outstanding FFA member, and the Legacy Award. Again, this year was a new honor outstanding 4-H Member in the four River Counties.

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience.

The day began with a breakfast to honor and appreciate the farmers, producers, and agricultural businesses of the region. Over 350 attendees gathered to hear keynote addresses, including a speech by Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell, who spoke on the promising opportunities for agricultural and economic development in the counties. Several legislators and county judge executives attended.

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact. Please note that the outcomes statement must use evaluation data to describe the change(s) that occurred in individuals, groups, families, businesses, or in the community because of the program/outreach.

Before the breakfast and awards ceremony, attendees explored booths that shared the real stories behind agriculture. The FCS booth, focused on promoting healthier food choices, was one of over forty exhibits and vendors available for public engagement. As the event concluded, excitement was already building for next year. 100 % of those talked to mention the day was a success. WAVE AG Day has now found a permanent home at Columbus Belmont State Park, continuing its legacy under the banner, "Let’s Grow With It."   

                                                                      Carlisle Farmer-Pam Gill was WAVE Ag Farmer of the Year