2026 POSTER AND ESSAY CONTEST “Bluegrass Roots, Agriculture Strong.”
Commissioner Jonathan Shell invites students across the commonwealth to create and submit original works of art to show the importance of agriculture to the Commonwealth’s way of life and our future. Students are encouraged to submit either a poster, essay, or digital art based on the contest theme. The theme for 2026 and “Bluegrass Roots, Agriculture Strong”
HELPFUL HINTS FOR THIS YEAR’S THEME - “Bluegrass Roots, Agriculture Strong.”
What does agriculture look like in the Bluegrass and how has it changed over the years? What progress has agriculture made since Kentucky was founded to ensure people have the resources they need to live? What do you see in the future of Kentucky agriculture to continue to make us a strong agriculture state?
- How did agriculture begin? Start the conversation about what agriculture provides by watching a TEDEd video on How Farming Planted Seeds for the Internet, then review Needs and Wants chart on how we utilize agriculture resources to provide not just what we need, but also what we want.
- What does modern agriculture look like? Explore the connections between modern agriculture and you through the AgToday digital magazine.
- What does agriculture in my community look like? The Bluegrass has strong roots in diverse agriculture production. Take a closer look at what agriculture commodities are produced in each region and each county through the Agriculture in my Kentucky Community lesson.
Statewide poster and essay winners from each grade, Kindergarten through 12th grade, will be chosen, and an overall digital winner will be selected. Cash prizes will be presented to the winners at the 2026 Poster and Essay Awards Ceremony. Information regarding the ceremony will be released to the winners at a later date.
The winning entries will be displayed in the Commissioner’s Office in Frankfort, at the 2026 Kentucky State Fair, and on the KDA website.
Entries must be postmarked by Friday, March 20, 2026 and mailed to the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, c/o Bethany Mattingly, 111 Corporate Drive, Frankfort, KY 40601. A completed entry form must be taped or glued to the back of each entry. If all information on the entry form is not completed the submission will be disqualified. Submissions can be sent in by individuals and through your child’s school. Winners will be notified by Friday, April 17, 2026.
For more information go to “Forms & Documents” on the right-hand side of this webpage, including complete contest rules and entry forms, or contact bethany.mattingly@ky.gov.