Bracken County’s participation in the Eastern Kentucky Hay Contest this year was nothing short of extraordinary. With 146 samples collected from 50 producers, the contest showcased not only the quality of our local hay but also the strong community of farmers who dedicate themselves to excellence.

In previous years, participation was modest, with only about 25 samples from 8 farms. But this year, as the new Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent, I saw an opportunity to grow the program and strengthen connections with producers across the county. Traveling from farm to farm to collect samples wasn’t just about the contest—it became a journey of discovery and community building.

Each farm visit offered a unique story. I learned about the traditions and processes behind each producer’s hay-making efforts, met neighbors who lent a helping hand, and even heard heartwarming personal stories that highlighted the resilience and pride of our agricultural community. These visits weren’t just about collecting samples—they were about building trust, understanding the challenges producers face, and fostering a shared commitment to agricultural success.

The results of the contest speak volumes about the dedication of Bracken County’s farmers. This year, our county earned the Highest Quality Average with an impressive score of 192, and we celebrated having the Grand Champion Hay with a remarkable quality score of 219. Out of the 12 contest categories, Bracken County farmers secured 6 first-place wins, 4 second-place finishes, and 5 third-place spots. In fact, we completely dominated 3 of the categories—a testament to the hard work and expertise of our local producers.

As an agent, I was honored to win recognition for collecting the most samples in the contest, with 146 submissions. This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the support and enthusiasm of our producers. Their willingness to participate and share their stories made this contest a success not just for me but for the entire county.

This year’s contest was a celebration of what makes Bracken County special—our commitment to quality, our sense of community, and our pride in agriculture. I’m excited to continue building on this momentum, working alongside our farmers to support their success and strengthen our agricultural legacy.