Nancy Monroe with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA) gave us a little background on her role with the project as well as additional resources.

What is your role within KDA and how long have you been with the organization?

I have been with KDA since November 2017. My official title is “Ag Program Coordinator” but that encompasses many duties and that variety is one of my favorite parts of what I do as it allows me to directly with many producers across the state. I work with farmers’ markets across the state, work with Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) producers, the KY Proud Homegrown By Heroes program, serve as KDA’s representative on the AgVets grant and oversee KDA’s AgLand exhibit at the KY State Fair.

What are you most excited about as this program rolls out?

I am most excited about expanding opportunities for our existing veteran farmers, establishing a veteran farmer network and helping new veteran farmers learn about agriculture and/or agribusiness opportunities.

What role will KDA play within the grant program?

KDA works with developing the grant programming, the steering committee, recruiting mentor farmers, and establishing the veteran farmer network.

Are there other programs KDA has that veterans can participate in?

Yes, the KY Proud Homegrown By Heroes marketing initiative is open to KY Proud members who are veterans that have honorably served or to current service members in good standing with their unit. Please visit Homegrown by Heroes - Jobs for Vets for more details and eligibility requirements. You can contact me directly with specific questions too.

How can we stay up-to-date with new initiatives and programs from KDA?

We encourage you to follow KDA on social media and to sign up for the publications below.

KDA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kentuckyag

KDA Twitter: https://twitter.com/kentuckyag

KDA YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/kentuckyagriculture

Subscribe to receive official KDA press releases at Kentucky Agricultural Press Releases

Subscribe to the KY Agricultural News at Welcome to Kentucky Agricultural News