Kentucky Department of Agriculture officials and goat industry stakeholders gathered at Lakeview Park in Frankfort to announce on April 2 that April is Goat Month in Kentucky.
“Goats bring diversity to our agricultural landscape across Kentucky and more and more farmers are choosing to add them to their livestock. 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,” Commissioner Jonathan Shell said, according to the organization’s press release.
Goats in Kentucky are primarily raised for dairy products such as milk, yogurt, cheese, and meat known as chevon. The state has 5,800 dairy goats producing breeding stock and natural skin products like soaps and lotions. Kentucky ranks 23rd nationally for milk goat production. For meat goats, the state holds sixth place in national inventory with 57,000 head despite a decrease of 3,000 from the previous year—a ranking it has maintained for a decade.
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. 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.” Goats are also used globally for weed control on farms, promoting healthy forests and preventing wildfires.
With nearly 3,524 farmers raising goats as part of their livestock operations statewide, the industry contributes over $3.6 million annually to Kentucky’s agriculture receipts. Warren County leads with nearly 2,800 head followed by Crittenden, Barren, Clinton and Nelson counties. A variety of goat products can be found at local farmers’ markets or purchased directly from producers; additional information is available through resources provided by the Kentucky Sheep and Goat Development Office.
The Kentucky Department of Agriculture operates as a state agency within Kentucky’s executive branch according to the official website. The department uses facilities in Frankfort for administrative functions; it provides resources across all counties in Kentucky; it celebrates agricultural education during designated months; obtains funding through grants for county fairs; aims to enhance agriculture through partnerships; all according to its official website. More details about Goat Month can be found at the organization’s press release.
