Sowing Seeds of Success: Logan County's Youth Agriculture Incentive Program

The Kentucky Agriculture Development Board introduced the Youth Agriculture Incentive Program in 2018 to encourage youth involvement in production agriculture. Since its inception in 2018, the Logan County YAIP program has been transforming the lives of local youth by empowering them to explore the diverse and rewarding opportunities of agriculture. Spearheaded by the Logan County Extension Agent for Agriculture & Natural Resources in partnership with the Logan County Agriculture Development Board and the Logan County Cattlemen’s Association, YAIP is planting the seeds for a strong agricultural future.

YAIP is designed for youth ages 9 to 18 and encourages hands-on learning through direct investment in agricultural projects. From animal production and country ham curing to greenhouse horticulture and agricultural technology, the program provides young people the opportunity to engage with every facet of agriculture. It’s not just about learning—it’s about doing.

To date, $422,023 has been awarded to 149 youth participants across Logan County. On average, each participant has received $1,171.58 per year, a meaningful investment that empowers students to take ownership of their projects and grow their skills and confidence. Impressively, these youth have collectively invested a staggering $1,000,353.21 into their agricultural pursuits, demonstrating their commitment and passion for the field.

YAIP funding has supported a wide variety of project areas, including animal production (beef and dairy cattle, sheep, goats, swine, poultry, equine, honey bees, and livestock barns), showmanship, country ham projects, forage and grain production, horticulture and greenhouse management, and agricultural technology.

Each project tells a story of growth - not just in livestock weight or crop yield, but in leadership, responsibility, and the pursuit of excellence. Of the 149 youth participants, 9 of them have completed projects in the program all 7 years and 34 have completed projects in at least 4 of the years. Each new program years brings in new participants eager to invest in a new project or make improvements on a current agriculture project while saying bye to some who have graduated the program with substantial financial growth and stability, heading on to new adventures.  

YAIP is more than a funding initiative; it’s a launch pad for the next generation of agricultural leaders in Logan County. Thanks to the vision and support of the Logan County Agriculture Development Board, the Cattlemen’s Association, and the Extension Office, these young individuals are not only learning about agriculture - they’re living it.

With every barn built, animal raised, and crop harvested, YAIP participants are cultivating a lifelong connection to agriculture, ensuring that the future of farming in Logan County remains strong and vibrant.