Three crop farmers from different regions of Kentucky discussed their preparations for spring planting, according to a March 23 report by Kentucky Ag News. Brandon Hunt of Christian County, Drew Langley of Hardin County, and Mike Calebs of Laurel County shared their perspectives on crop choices, timing, and weather considerations as the new season begins.
The start of spring is an important time for Kentucky’s agricultural sector. Farmers across the state are making decisions that affect not only their livelihoods but also local food systems and markets. The Kentucky Department of Agriculture provides resources and programs in all counties to support these efforts, according to the official website.
Langley said optimism remains strong despite recent challenges: “We’re always optimistic. Times have been challenging the last few years, but the Lord’s blessed us and we’re hoping that continues.” Calebs described his focus on horse hay: “We’ve established a strong horse hay market. We sell premium horse quality hay. I used to be a big tobacco grower, but I planted alfalfa and timothy hay… And we’ve been marketing sweet corn and other vegetables for a couple of generations that we sell at the farmers’ market. We also grow corn to feed our livestock.” Hunt listed his planned crops as “Corn, (winter) wheat, soybeans, tobacco, and maybe (industrial) hemp.”
When asked if market prices or input costs influenced their choices this year, all three said no. Langley explained: “No. I have most of my inputs locked in, but it’ll affect a lot of guys. I think you’ll see acres that were going to go to corn go to beans.” Hunt added: “No. The west side of state is pretty much set because of how much (winter) wheat we grow.” Calebs noted his longstanding commitment: “No. I’ve got hay stands that are 30 years old.”
Farmers rely on various cues when deciding when to plant crops each year—some use weather services while others look at natural signs like tree leaves or soil temperature readings before starting work in April or late March.
The Kentucky Department of Agriculture operates as part of Kentucky’s executive branch with facilities in Frankfort handling administrative tasks; it obtains funding through grants for county fairs and projects according to its official website. The department aims to enhance agriculture through partnerships and planning initiatives according to its official website, celebrating agricultural education during designated months according to its official website. It strengthens the state’s agricultural economy by offering services such as animal health support, marketing assistance, consumer safeguards and producer grants according to its official website.
As planting gets underway statewide this spring season—with different approaches taken by individual growers—the broader impact will be seen in local economies supported by agriculture programs across every county.
