KY Dept of Ag

The official account of the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. Use #KentuckyAg to share how agriculture has affected you today!

[Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell @KYAgCommish]

The Kentucky Department of Agriculture mourns the loss of a true servant, leader, and friend, Dale Dobson.
Dale dedicated his life's work to protecting Kentucky's farm families.

Hired by Commissioner Billy Ray Smith to build the Department's Farm Safety Program from the ground up, he faithfully served under four Commissioners before I had the privilege of appointing him Director of Farm Safety and Rural Health.

His impact on Kentucky agriculture cannot be measured simply by programs created—it is measured in lives saved. When Dale began this mission, Kentucky experienced more than 50 farm-related fatalities each year. Today, that number has fallen to fewer than 12. His vision also led to the development of Kentucky's grain bin rescue training, now taught across our Commonwealth and in other states. Just last year, five Kentucky farmers survived grain bin entrapments because first responders had received the training Dale helped create.

Dale understood that protecting farmers meant caring for both their physical safety and their mental well-being. Alongside Dr. Cheryl Witt, he helped establish Raising Hope, bringing much-needed attention and resources to farmer mental health. He also created the Challenge Coin Farmer Suicide Prevention Program, reminding countless Kentuckians that hope is always within reach.

One of Dale's greatest passions was teaching young people. He knew that when you educate a child about farm safety, you often change the habits of an entire family—parents, grandparents, and future generations alike.

Dale Dobson leaves behind a legacy that will continue to protect Kentucky farmers for generations to come. His compassion, innovation, and unwavering commitment to agriculture made our Commonwealth a safer and stronger place.

On behalf of the @kentuckyag, we extend our deepest condolences to Dale's family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working alongside him. We are forever grateful for his service, and we will honor his memory by continuing the work he loved so dearly.

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

Did you know? 🤔
Happy Alpaca Month! 
#JulyAlpacaMonth #KentuckyAgriculture

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

It's the month for July produce! Celebrate the season by enjoying fresh, local fruits and vegetables like tomatoes, corn, berries, cucumbers, and zucchini. Eat seasonal, support local, and savor summer's best flavors! 🌞🥕

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

A closer look at Kentucky agriculture!

KDA interns recently observed a grain bin inspection, learning how inspections help maintain grain quality, support fair commerce, and keep Kentucky's agricultural industry moving forward.

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

Did you know Kentucky is home to 200+ alpaca farms?

Celebrate July as Kentucky Alpaca Fleece & Fiber Month! Visit a local farm through the Alpaca Owners Association or explore the Kentucky Fiber Trail.

Thank you to Kentucky's hardworking alpaca farmers for all you do!

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

One month until the Kentucky State Fair!

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

Kentucky-made treats make every scoop a little sweeter. 🍦

Happy National Ice Cream Day! Support local dairy farmers and enjoy your favorite frozen treat today.

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

✨Everyone deserves a chance to shine!✨

Registration is now open for the 2026 Sunshine Class Livestock Show at the Kentucky State Fair!

📅 August 26, 2026 | 9 a.m.
📍 Broadbent Arena, Kentucky State Fair

Register today: https://t.co/u5xXJuwkax

#KentuckyStateFair

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

30 District Coordinators came together with one goal: strengthening agricultural education across Kentucky. At the District Coordinator Congress, they prepared for the 2026–2027 Kentucky's All In for Ag Education Weeks with new resources, ideas, and partnerships.

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

The Kentucky Proud Vendor and Expo are returning on Friday, September 18th from 1-4 p.m. at the Shelbyville Conference & Welcome Center!

Click the link for further information and registration: Kentucky Proud® invites buyers, sellers to 'Retail Ready' Vendor Expo in Shelbyville

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

Commissioner Jonathan Shell visited Stewart Home & School to officially declare July as Kentucky-Grown Cut Flower Month, recognizing the growers whose hard work brings beauty to communities across the Commonwealth.

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

Commissioner Jonathan Shell joined the Hardin County Farm to Table Dinner to celebrate Kentucky farmers, local food, and the partnerships that bring fresh products from the farm to the table. Thank you to everyone who made this special evening possible!

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

Deputy Commissioner Warren Beeler recently helped prepare the Scott County 4-H State Skillathon Team, guiding students through livestock scenarios and genetic decisions producers make every day.

Best of luck as they represent Kentucky!🍀

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

This Independence Day, we celebrate the freedoms we cherish, the farm families who help feed our nation, and the values that have shaped America for 250 years.

From everyone at the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, we wish you a safe and happy Fourth of July! 🇺🇸

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

The countdown to the 2026 Kentucky State Fair is on! Tickets are on sale now, so don't wait!
Get yours today: https://t.co/dPugxqjOCk

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

Every farmers market stand has a story. We're proud to spotlight Springcreek Farm, a veteran-owned farm and Homegrown by Heroes member. When you buy local, you're supporting a veteran, Kentucky agriculture, and our rural communities. Thank you for your service—on and off the farm

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

July is National Cut Flower Month! Celebrate by supporting Kentucky flower growers and bringing home fresh, locally grown blooms. Visit your local farmers market or flower farm and enjoy the beauty of Kentucky agriculture. 🌸

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

Oldham County's last remaining dairy farm is keeping a rich agricultural tradition alive with award-winning cheeses, farm-made yogurt, and a passion for Kentucky agriculture.

Read more:
https://t.co/v2p9WtG7Ud

[KY Dept of Ag @kentuckyag]

Want to stay up to date on Kentucky agriculture? Kentucky Ag News brings you the latest stories on Kentucky farmers, agribusinesses, agricultural programs, research, events, and innovation across the Commonwealth.

Subscribe today:
https://t.co/vJ3JyaimxJ

[Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell @KYAgCommish]

One of my favorite events every year is the Kroger Local Food Show. Nearly 70 Kentucky Proud vendors were on hand today showcasing some of the best products grown, raised, and made right here in the Commonwealth.

Big thanks to Kroger for providing this opportunity for Kentucky producers.