Discover your role in Agriculture
The future of Kentucky’s agriculture lies in the hands of its people
WE are an eclectic, knowledgeable, and inspired workforce.
A vibrant blend of traditional wisdom and contemporary insights is essential for propelling the state’s rich agricultural legacy forward. Harnessing the potential of our diverse community guarantees innovative and sustainable solutions for our farming challenges.
It’s time for younger generations and bright minds to step forward. Their education, fresh perspectives, and youthful vigor are vital for revolutionizing our agricultural practices. With their contribution, we can make agriculture more efficient, reduce our environmental footprint, and safeguard our food security.
Our call to action is simple: Let’s inspire, educate, and empower the next generation to sustain Kentucky’s agriculture. It’s not just about cultivating crops – it’s about cultivating a future. The future of our state, environment, and community depends on it. Together, let’s foster a workforce that’s as rich and diverse as the Kentucky soil itself.
Kentucky Agriculture At-a-Glance
Kentucky is home to a wide variety of agriculture production, from horses and beef cattle to tobacco and corn. Agriculture in Kentucky is one of the state’s leading and most vital industries with an annual economic impact of nearly $50 billion1. Kentucky agriculture is also constantly changing to keep up with consumer demand and the ever-growing world population.
Quick Facts:
Kentucky is home to 75,966 farms, from large to small.
The average farm size in Kentucky is 171 acres, compared to the national average of 444 acres.
Kentucky agriculture is dominated by small family farms. About 66 percent of its farms (49,942) have annual sales of less than $10,000.
Of Kentucky’s 25.4 million acres, just over 50% is considered farmland (12.8 million acres).
Kentucky agricultural cash receipts (sale of crops and livestock) set a record $6.86 billion in 2021.
More than 138,000 jobs are directly related to agricultural production, processing, and inputs.
Learn more about Kentucky Agriculture
Source: 2023 Feeding the Economy Study - Kentucky
To measure the total economic impact of the food and ag industries, the analysis includes the direct and indirect economic activity surrounding these industries, capturing both upstream and downstream activity. For example, when a farm equipment retailer hires new employees because farmers are buying more tractors, experts consider the new salaries an indirect impact. Similarly, when a retail associate spends her paycheck, an induced economic impact occurs.
Where to start
Getting started in a career in agriculture in Kentucky requires a blend of traditional knowledge, hands-on experience, and a keen understanding of modern agriculture. You can begin by reaching out to your local farm organizations or Chamber of Commerce to discover in-demand agricultural jobs for your area. Whether helping out locally or attending a college agriculture program, like at the University of Kentucky or Murray State, you’ll be introduced to all the skills and knowledge you need to succeed.
Coming soon. In the meantime, search for your local Chamber of Commerce to view potential employers.
Kentucky Agriculture Employers
