The Kentucky Department of Agriculture announced on April 2 that April will be recognized as Goat Month in the state, with producers and officials gathering at Lakeview Park in Frankfort to mark the occasion.
Goat Month highlights the role goats play in Kentucky’s agricultural economy and encourages public awareness about goat products. The event aims to recognize both the diversity goats bring to farms and their contribution to state revenue.
“Goats bring diversity to our agricultural landscape across Kentucky and more and more farmers are choosing to add them to their livestock,” Commissioner Jonathan Shell said. “They add a uniqueness to farm life, but they are also an excellent source of protein and dairy products. This month we salute all that goats add to our state’s agricultural outlook.”
Kentucky ranks sixth nationally for meat goat inventory with 57,000 head, though this is a decrease from last year. The state also has 5,800 dairy goats, ranking it twenty-third in milk goat production across the United States. Nearly 3,524 farmers raise goats in Kentucky, contributing over $3.6 million annually to agriculture receipts. Warren County leads in production numbers within the state.
Dr. Beth Johnson, president of the Kentucky Goat Producers Association, said: “Kentucky provides an environment, abundant in grass and forage, that allows goat producers within the state to raise a nutritious meat, milk and/or fiber animal.” Johnson added: “Our goat producers within the state have learned how to care and nurture their animals to overcome some of the management concerns, primarily parasite control. During Kentucky Goat Month, we invite everyone to learn more about the benefits and impact that our industry provides through the Kentucky Sheep and Goat Development Office.”
The department offers resources for purchasing local goat products at farmers’ markets or directly from producers through its website kysheepandgoat.org/on-your-plate.
The Kentucky Department of Agriculture operates as a state agency within Kentucky’s executive branch according to its official website. It uses facilities in Frankfort for administrative functions according to its official website and obtains funding through grants for county fairs as well as other projects according to its official website. The department celebrates agricultural education during designated months according to its official website, provides resources across all counties according to its official website, enhances economic growth through partnerships according to its official website, and strengthens farming regulation with programs supporting animal health support among other services according to its official website.
Looking ahead, organizers encourage Kentuckians during Goat Month not only celebrate but also learn more about local agriculture by visiting markets or accessing online educational materials.
