University of Kentucky researchers have been looking at cereal rye as a crop for Kentucky farmers for the past several years.  Known and used as a cover crop, cereal rye is now being looked at as a potential income source for farming operations.  On-farm research is being conducted to test agronomic practices and to show that Kentucky can be a reliable rye source for distillers, bakers, and millers.  

Oldham County is located to many nearby distillers, and in 2013, a craft distillery reached out to Oldham County Extension to connect with local producers who could grow cereal rye for them.  A successful connection was made, and provided an income boost for at least one Oldham County producer.  While this producer was a veteran crop producer, there were some question marks about growing rye.  

At the same time, other farmers in Kentucky were beginning to look at rye’s potential.  While news spread of this potential new crop, several organizations got on board with funding research efforts, including Dendrifund, American Farmland Trust, Kentucky Small Grain Growers Association, and the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund.

In the 2019-2020 growing season, three farms in Oldham County and one farm in Trimble County hosted cereal rye research plots.  The Oldham County Extension Agriculture Agent assisted UK researchers by monitoring and scouting pilot fields for health, vigor, and pest pressure.  Data from sites across Kentucky is being used to better understand best varieties and production practices for Kentucky farmers.

Two farms in Oldham County will participate in the rye pilot program in the 2020-2021 growing season.  Oldham County Extension will once again collect data to support this state-wide initiative.