Author: Benjamin Rudy
Planning Unit: Fulton County CES
Major Program: Ag Policy
Plan of Work: Increasing Agricultural Stability through Cropping Systems, Marketing, and Pest Management
Outcome: Initial Outcome
With 83.53% of the land in all four river counties used for crop production, agriculture holds a strong presence. It was proposed to highlight agriculture in Ballard, Carlisle, Fulton, and Hickman County.
The first of its kind event WAVE River Counties AG Day was held at Fort Jefferson Cross Memorial in Wickliffe on July 13 from 7:30 am to 2:00 pm. The theme “Lets Grow With It”, was chosen.
The WAVE Ag Day was a joint venture including all four county judge executives, the four UK Ag agents in each county, ag businesses, the farm bureaus of each county, the Ballard Chamber of Commerce, River Valley Ag Credit, Murray State University, and Ballard school officials. Numerous planning meetings were held throughout the year. Sponsors were obtained to help fund the Ag Day and each River County after expenses received $5000.00 to help their county Grow With It. Ballard County gave their money to their Chamber, Fulton and Hickman County presented their money to the 4-H and FFA, while Carlisle County is starting a Chamber of Commerce. The platinum sponsors presented three awards: Farmer of the Year, Ag Business of the Year, and last but not least the Friend of Agriculture award.
The day started off with a breakfast in honor and appreciation of farmers, producers and Ag businesses in the four river counties. With an attendance of over 400 people the group listened to key talks by Agriculture Commissioner Ryan Quarles, and Warren Beeler talking about strong agricultural and economic development chances for the counties. On hand were also other legislators and the four county judge executives.
Following the breakfast and awards program the group moved to Wickliffe Park. At the park over 60 exhibits and vendors were set up for the public to visit and view. The KY Ag Mobile Classroom was set up as well as Dale Dobson with an ATV and lawn mower safety demonstration. There was food, fun, and things to do all involving agriculture and how we can grow with it. Lots of the kids enjoyed the petting zoo. Those surveyed all agreed the day was a great success even though it was extremely hot. Everyone is looking forward to the event next year. The Ag Day will rotate to all four counties and will be held in Carlisle County in 2018.
Describe the Issue or Situation.In our region, approximately 85% of farmland is dedicated to crop pr... Read More
Describe the Issue or Situation.In our region, approximately 85% of farmland is dedicated to crop pr... Read More
According to the U.S. Census the median household income in Fulton County is $33,567. The cost for o... Read More