Maps help us navigate the world, and they not only show us how to get from point A to point B, but, depending on the type of map, they can also help us to see where patterns, clusters, and gaps exist in a spatial environment. As part of KCARD’s state-wide Local Food System Expansion Initiative, a series of interactive maps has been developed to visualize the Kentucky local food system. Stay tuned for parts two and three of the series in the next few weeks. We will present a closer look into local food sales in Kentucky and the various industries that make up the local food system.
Chris Chamberlain started Bluegrass Blessings after his retirement from the Air Force. He was kind enough to spend a few minutes with us and share a little bit about his farm and why he is passionate about agriculture.
The Kentucky Sheep and Goat Development Office (KSGDO) is a partner in KCARD’s Agvets program, which is helping veterans and active duty service members start or develop agricultural businesses. Kelley Yates with KSGDO took some time to answer a few questions about upcoming programs and how to learn more about small ruminant production.
With the upcoming growing season quickly approaching, the Kentucky AgVets program partners will be matching the first round of veteran participants with mentor farmers. Mentorships will be designed to provide hands-on training and develop a network for veterans looking to start their career in agriculture. Mentorships will start out at 9 months long and can be extended as needed if mentor and veteran participant agree.
In September, KCARD and program partners were awarded a grant for the Connecting Kentucky Veterans to Agriculture Opportunities (Kentucky AgVets) program. Main program partners include the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, Horticulture Council, Kentucky Sheep and Goat Development Office and the Community and Economic Development Initiative of Kentucky (CEDIK).
Kellie Padgett, one of KCARD’s business development specialists, took a little time to answer some questions about herself, the new program Connecting Kentucky Veterans to Agriculture Opportunities (AgVets), and give some helpful tips for veterans interested in getting into agriculture.
The Kentucky Center for Agriculture and Rural Development is a non-profit organization established to facilitate agricultural and rural businesses in Kentucky. We are supported primarily through grants provided by the USDA Rural Cooperative Development Program and the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board. Additional support is provided through our work with partners around the state and through fees charged for select client services.
