The Kentucky Farm Bureau Beef Expo reported on March 12 that total sales at its 40th annual event surpassed $940,000 during the first weekend of March at the Kentucky Exposition Center.
The expo’s results reflect ongoing trends in cattle inventory and prices, highlighting the importance of beef production in Kentucky. Cattle and calves remain a leading commodity for the state, contributing over $1 billion in agricultural cash receipts.
Total sales reached $942,300 this year, which is an increase of $239,763 compared to last year. The average sale per lot rose from $3,369 to $4,706 despite a decrease in lots sold from last year’s total by ten lots to 198. This drop aligns with a national decline in cattle inventory but has contributed to higher prices for producers. “The latest numbers show cattle and calves are Kentucky’s number one commodity bringing in more than $1 billion in agricultural cash receipts. As the largest beef cattle state east of the Mississippi River, the Kentucky Farm Bureau Beef Expo showcases the importance of this industry,” said Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell. “Although the number of lot sales were down, we are excited to see average sale prices on the rise, showing the resiliency and strength of this agricultural sector.”
Angus cattle achieved an average price of $5,983 per lot—the highest among all breeds—and a top sale was recorded with a $40,000 Angus female from Circle M Farms based in Rockwall, Texas. The event featured participants from twelve states representing six breeds overall.
In addition to main auctions and breed showcases, junior shows included 409 head from eight states with nearly half coming from within Kentucky itself.
The expo was sponsored by both Kentucky Farm Bureau and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA). The KDA operates as a state agency within Kentucky’s executive branch according to its official website. It provides resources and programs across all counties according to its official website, including grants for county fairs and agricultural projects according to its official website. The department also celebrates agricultural education throughout designated months according to its official website and uses facilities in Frankfort for administrative functions according to its official website.
KDA aims to enhance agriculture through partnerships focused on farming regulation and food systems while offering services such as animal health support and marketing assistance according to its official website. These efforts strengthen agriculture statewide through strategic planning and educational initiatives.
