Kentucky’s agricultural sector is at a crossroads, brimming with potential and facing evolving challenges. To navigate this dynamic landscape, the Kentucky Agricultural Summit will be held November 14-15, 2024, in Louisville, Kentucky. The summit will convene industry leaders, farmers, and stakeholders for a two-day exploration of the future of Kentucky agriculture.
Get ready to make a difference and be inspired!
During the Kentucky Agriculture Summit, we'll unveil the Strategic Roadmap for Kentucky Agriculture: 2025-2030, a groundbreaking plan developed by over 300 stakeholders to propel the farming community forward. This roadmap outlines achievable, measurable, and evolving strategies that will shape the future of agriculture in our state.
"Plan your work, and work your plan,” remarked Tony Brannon, KAC chair. “For the past year, the KAC has networked with all Kentucky agriculture organizations and agriculture leaders from all over the Commonwealth to 'plan our work.' The Kentucky Agriculture Summit begins the transition to 'work our plan.' It's not just another meeting; it's a meeting of the minds to continue to merge the great past of Kentucky Agriculture into an even brighter future. Join us as we share this vision and discuss how we can all work together to make it a reality.”
This premier event, presented by the Kentucky Agricultural Council (KAC), the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund, the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, and Kentucky State University, is a critical platform for exchanging ideas, fostering collaboration, and charting a course for continued growth and prosperity. The Summit will delve into critical themes like:
- Farm Transitions and Preservation: Discuss experiences, legal needs, and challenges with farmland transitions with a first-generation farmer, lawyer, and experts.
- Market Access and Expansion: Explore strategies for reaching new domestic and international markets, maximizing the value of Kentucky’s agricultural products.
- Workforce Development: Identify solutions to address the agricultural workforce gap and attract the next generation to Kentucky’s vibrant agricultural scene.
- Innovation and Technology: Discover how advancements in agriculture technology transform farm practices, optimize yield, and create new market opportunities.
Speakers include Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Johnathan Shell, Kentucky Economic Development Secretary Jeff Noel, and Kentucky Venues CEO David Beck. Matt Lohr, a farmer leader who has served as chief of the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service and is currently the Virginia Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry, will provide the opening keynote address on leading agriculture into the future.
In addition, the Kentucky Agriculture Summit offers attendees a unique opportunity to:
- Gather ideas from thought leaders shaping the future of farm, food, fuel, and fiber.
- Engage in thought-provoking sessions to create connections with unique partners.
- Network with fellow farmers, agribusinesses, food partners, and policymakers across Kentucky and beyond.
- Enjoy an evening celebrating a “Taste of Kentucky.”
Registration for the Kentucky Agriculture Summit is now open. Visit www.kyagcouncil.org by October 25 to secure your spot and help shape a brighter future for Kentucky agriculture.
About the Kentucky Agricultural Council
The Kentucky Agricultural Council is a non-profit organization that advocates for and promotes Kentucky agriculture. The Council brings together diverse stakeholders to address critical issues impacting the community and create a thriving agricultural environment for the Commonwealth.
Contact:
Jennifer Elwell, Executive Secretary
kyagcouncil@gmail.com
