Funded projects focus on agricultural diversification, rural development

FRANKFORT (April 17, 2026) – The Kentucky Agricultural Development Board approved $1,035,439 for agricultural diversification and rural development projects across the Commonwealth Friday at its monthly board meeting.

“The projects awarded today by the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board will help to strengthen our agricultural economy,” Commissioner of Agriculture and Board Chair Jonathan Shell said. “That strength comes through diversification and progress toward a future that recognizes diversity adds resilience to our farming communities.”

County and State Funded Projects

• Hoof and Horn Veterinary Services was approved up to $79,000 in state funds and $21,000 in multi-county funds to purchase a truck, vet box, and veterinary equipment as part of the Large and Food Animal Veterinary Incentives Program. For more information, contact Noah Zazulak at nzazulak@outlook.com.

County Programs

County Agricultural Incentives Program (CAIP) 

CAIP provides Kentucky agricultural producers with cost-share assistance on practices to allow them to improve and diversify their current farm operations. CAIP covers a wide variety of agricultural enterprises in its 11 incentive areas, including, but not limited to, beef and dairy cattle; farm infrastructure, fencing, and water enhancement; equine; forage; goats and sheep; horticulture; poultry; swine; bees and honey; timber and technology, as well as energy efficiency and production; marketing; and value-added production.

Six CAIPs, totaling $877,264, were approved in the following counties:

• Bath ($225,000)

• Montgomery ($70,000)

• Ohio ($100,000)

• Owsley ($142,000)

• Robertson ($260,264)

• Washington ($80,000)

Deceased Farm Animal Removal (DAR) 

The Deceased Farm Animal Removal Program serves as a measure to facilitate the coordination of environmentally sound and cost-effective disposal of deceased livestock for Kentucky producers.

One DAR, totaling $3,175, was approved in Trimble County.

Next Generation Farmer Program (NextGen)

NextGen addresses the growing need for a specialized program that would benefit producers ages 18 to 40 that have been engaged in an agricultural operation for a minimum of three years. 

One NextGen, totaling $10,000, was approved in Washington County.

Youth Agricultural Incentives Program (YAIP) 

YAIP encourages youth to engage in and explore agricultural opportunities.

Two YAIPs, totaling $45,000, were approved in the following counties:

• Bath ($35,000)

• Washington ($10,000)

All application periods and deadlines for CAIP, NextGen, and YAIP will be advertised locally.