While the Purchase area is typically noted for excellence in row crop production, the livestock industry still plays a vital role in the farm portfolio. In Graves County, cattle and calves accounted for 7,462 ($1000) in sales according to the 2017 Census of Agriculture. Extension Agent for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Samantha Anderson, worked in partnership with the Purchase Area Cattlemen’s Associations to lead a summer tour throughout the Bluegrass Region.

Purchase Area Cattlemen’s Association members toured an area cow/calf operation, networked with area Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association members and state agricultural policy leaders, along with visiting Bluegrass Stockyards and Alltech headquarters.

Eleven members of the Purchase Area Cattlemen’s Association attended this educational opportunity. Through this event, producers gained knowledge to directly impact on farm income, voiced Purchase area needs and concerns to statewide agricultural policy leaders in addition to broadening their view of the Kentucky beef industry as a whole.