Commissioner Jonathan Shell

The official account of the 36th Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell. | Food. Faith. Family.

[Commissioner Jonathan Shell @KYAgCommish]

This is what Kentucky agriculture is all about—young people stepping up to make a difference in their communities.

Projects like this demonstrate the value of empowering students to develop leadership skills while addressing real needs in their hometowns. Congratulations to Caldwell County FFA for providing grain bin rescue equipment to the Princeton Fire Department and helping make their community safer.

https://t.co/LD49Yzjm26

[Commissioner Jonathan Shell @KYAgCommish]

The future of Kentucky agriculture is bright. Excited to welcome our 2026 summer interns to the Kentucky Department of Agriculture as they spend the summer gaining hands-on experience, building connections, and helping advance important work across the Commonwealth. Looking forward to seeing the impact this talented group will make at @kentuckyag!

https://t.co/uV5Baehzps

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

Nothing says May in Kentucky like fresh, juicy, bright red strawberries! 🍓 Celebrate Strawberry Month by supporting local farmers across the Commonwealth. From farm markets to family recipes, Kentucky strawberries bring fresh flavor to our kitchens and communities each spring.

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

Executive Director Brandon Reed joined university and state leaders for the ribbon-cutting of the new Martin-Gatton Agricultural Sciences Building at the University of Kentucky. The $60 million facility will help support the next generation of Kentucky agriculture leaders.

[Commissioner Jonathan Shell @KYAgCommish]

This Memorial Day, we pause to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

As we gather with family and friends across the Commonwealth, let us remember and give thanks for those who gave everything for our nation. May we never forget their sacrifice.

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

May is Beef Month in Kentucky!

The top five Kentucky counties for number of beef cattle are:
Barren
Pulaski
Madison
Breckinridge
Bourbon 

Thank you to the hardworking farm families who help provide high-quality Kentucky beef year-round.

[Commissioner Jonathan Shell @KYAgCommish]

Big wins for Kentucky agriculture coming out of the 2026 legislative session! 🌾👏 From major investments to new opportunities for farmers and rural communities, this session was all about moving Kentucky agriculture forward. Excited for the momentum we’re building and the future ahead for our ag industry!

https://t.co/VY0owuTL6s

[University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton CAFE @UKAgriculture]

The @universityofky, along with @kentuckyag, @KYFB and and members of the Burley and Dark Tobacco Producer Association, celebrated the $2 million gift from @AltriaNews to establish the Endowed Chair in Tobacco Growers Sustainability.

Learn more: https://t.co/mF3CKyeSAp

[Commissioner Jonathan Shell @KYAgCommish]

Farmers market season is one of the best times of year in Kentucky! 🌾🍓 From fresh produce and local meats to baked goods and handmade products, our farmers markets are a great way to support Kentucky growers and small businesses while enjoying the best our communities have to offer. Be sure to shop local this season!

https://t.co/vSC84zpnRp

[Commissioner Jonathan Shell @KYAgCommish]

Excited to see another great opportunity connecting Kentucky students with agriculture through school gardens and hands-on learning. Programs like the School Garden Squash Challenge help students learn where their food comes from while encouraging creativity, teamwork, and healthy habits.

[Commissioner Jonathan Shell @KYAgCommish]

Congratulations to all of the talented students recognized in this year’s Kentucky Department of Agriculture Poster and Essay Contest! 🌾🎨✍️ It’s inspiring to see young Kentuckians showcasing their creativity while highlighting the importance of agriculture and the pride we all share in our farming communities.

https://t.co/zmcYzkwFFT

[Commissioner Jonathan Shell @KYAgCommish]

Another incredible Derby week in the books! 🐎 One of my favorite traditions is the Trainers Dinner — and it’s always great to see Kentucky Proud food on full display, showcasing the best of what our farmers bring to the table. 🌾🍽️

[Commissioner Jonathan Shell @KYAgCommish]

Another incredible Derby week in the books! 🐎 One of my favorite traditions is the Trainers Dinner — and it’s always great to see Kentucky Proud food on full display, showcasing the best of what our farmers bring to the table. 🌾🍽️

[Commissioner Jonathan Shell @KYAgCommish]

It’s Beef Month, and there’s no better place to celebrate than Kentucky—the top beef cattle state east of the Mississippi. Here’s to the hardworking producers who keep our agricultural heritage strong. 🐄

https://t.co/WcY9hJSaou

[Commissioner Jonathan Shell @KYAgCommish]

Kentucky pride was on full display at Thurby. 🌹 The Mamzelle Stakes (GIII), presented by Kentucky Proud, highlighted the excitement of race day while celebrating what makes our state special. Congratulations to Cy Fair on the win! 🏇

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

The Mamzelle Stakes (GIII) presented by Kentucky Proud, showcased the excitement of race day while celebrating the people and products that make our state special. Congratulations to Cy Fair, the Kentucky Proud horse that claimed the win in this year’s Mamzelle Stakes (GIII).

[Commissioner Jonathan Shell @KYAgCommish]

Bloom by bloom, the Derby tradition comes to life. 🌹✨

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

KDA staff spent the evening at the annual Emerald Gala, celebrating 4-H members from across Kentucky and the work they’re doing to shape the future of our state. An inspiring night supporting the next generation of leaders. 🍀

[Commissioner Jonathan Shell @KYAgCommish]

Get ready—it’s Derby Week. All eyes are on Kentucky. 🐎🌹

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

🌱 Nelson Family Agriculture Farm is a key role in bringing the Mint Julep to life. Fresh mint is grown, harvested, and supplied by local producers, connecting agriculture to one of the state’s most recognized traditions from field to glass.

[Commissioner Jonathan Shell @KYAgCommish]

Nothing says spring in Kentucky like flowers in full bloom. 🌸 From bedding plants to hanging baskets, our growers are hard at work bringing color to communities across the Commonwealth.

[Commissioner Jonathan Shell @KYAgCommish]

Support Kentucky Proud this Mother’s Day. 💐 From handcrafted soaps and candles to lotions and balms made by local producers, there are plenty of thoughtful gifts available right at your neighborhood Kroger. It’s a simple way to shop local and celebrate Mom with something meaningful. 🌸

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

💐 Still need a Mother’s Day gift? Kentucky Proud and Kroger are teaming up to make it easy to shop local.

Find handmade items like soaps, candles, and more at select stores across central Kentucky.

Read more: https://t.co/LD0vu1ez0M