Agriculture

University of Kentucky Agricultural Economist Will Snell says a rise in commodity prices and increasing indemnity payments will result in higher net farm income than many would have expected this year. Speaking to the Interim Joint Committee on Agriculture in Lexington, Snell pointed to USDA projections that net farm income this year will reach its highest level in 42 years.

Kentucky's agriculture commissioner says he sees no reason why the state can't double its agriculture sales in the coming years. James Comer tells WKU Public Radio high commodity prices helped Kentucky set a record of $4.9 billion in agriculture receipts in 2011. He says by helping Kentucky farmers increase production and gain access to new markets overseas, sales could skyrocket.

Direct marketing to consumers has become an increasingly important part of many farm operations in Kentucky. Roadside stands, local farmer's markets, and the development of value-added products have helped to boost farm income. On Friday September 14th, a workshop will be held at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green to discuss opportunities for expanding such marketing activity along Interstate 65.