FRANKFORT, Ky. — Commissioner Richie Farmer is proud to announce the development of the “Kentucky Bred” program. The program will provide additional premiums and awards to youth exhibitors who show animals at Kentucky Department of Agriculture-sponsored youth livestock shows that they have raised themselves or have purchased from a Kentucky breeder.

“Establishing this program will add value and increase demand for show animals from Kentucky farmers,” Commissioner Farmer said. “Kentucky youth purchase thousands of lambs, goats, pigs, steers and heifers for shows each year. Kentucky Bred encourages youth to buy in state and adds to the vitality of the state’s agriculture economy. “

To be eligible for the program, exhibitors must complete a verification form with signatures from the exhibitor, breeder, and 4-H agent or vocational agriculture teacher and turn it in to the Kentucky Department of Agriculture by June 10. Verification forms are available for download by logging on to the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s Web site, www.kyagr.com, and clicking on Show and Fair Promotion. To obtain a verification form by mail, or for more information, contact Steve Mobley, Mollie Tichenor or Jeff Zinner at the Division of Show and Fair Promotion at (502) 564-4983.

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