by | Oct 11, 2024

Kentucky Corn Growers Association Hosts International Guests for Exploration of Dried Distillers Grains

After attending the U.S. Grains Council’s Export Exchange 2024 Conference in Fort Worth, Texas, from October 7-9, 14 participants from Central America, South America, and the Caribbean traveled to Kentucky and Tennessee to tour Green Plains Ethanol Plant, Lowry Farms, Tosh Farms Feed Mill and Swine Production, and Hopkinsville Elevator’s riverport facility.

Kentucky and Tennesee Corn hosted grain and feed buyers, along with operators of animal feeding facilities primarily in the pork, poultry, and grain merchandising sectors. Participants included buyers, general managers, and executive directors from their respective organizations.

By the end of their tour, they followed the grain’s journey from corn farm to distribution, and from ethanol to DDGS.

At Green Plains Ethanol Plant in Obion, Tennessee, the group witnessed the transformation of a kernel of corn into sustainable products used for high-value feed ingredients and low-carbon fuel. They observed how co-products of corn are created by the drying milling ethanol industry, particularly focusing on DDGS. The guests took part in an extensive question and answer session about DDGS and were assured by the Green Plains team that quality products would remain available. 

Keith Lowry of Lowry Farms provided grain buyers with insights into the farm equipment utilized, on-farm grain storage systems, sustainability practices, and the factors contributing to yield improvements over the years. This year, Lowry is celebrating the harvest of his 50th crop, crediting much of his success to his family and dedicated long-time employees on the farm. 

Guests particularly enjoyed exploring Lowry’s tractors, planters, combines, headers, grain carts, and sprayers. Many climbed ladders to sit in the tractor cabs and discover the technology used on farms.

The group also heard from Kentucky farmers Josh Lancaster, Steve Weatherford and Curtis Weatherford. Corn was being harvested up the road at Weatherford Farms, allowing guests to experience the corn shelling process first-hand. 

Key takeaways from the corn farm visit include:

  • American farms are family-owned and operated.
  • American farmers utilize advanced on-farm grain storage systems.
  • American farms are community oriented.
  • American farmers receive support from advocacy groups like the Kentucky Corn Growers’ Association.

Outside of tours, they enjoyed evening activities at Discovery Park of America, located in Union City, TN. They explored the agriculture exhibit, which highlighted the innovation of farming from the past, present, and future. Lloyd Jones from Jackson Purchase Distillery joined the group at dinner to share insight on the bourbon industry.

Overall, it was clear to see how active and curious the attendees were in learning about U.S. corn production as the international guests consider multiple avenues in purchasing reliable exports for feed grains and feed products. Activities like this contribute to building a more interconnected market.

What we do.

Kentucky Corn strives to create a future for Kentucky corn farmers where they can operate successfully, grow demand and foster an understanding of corn farmers and the industry.

Become a member.

For us, grassroots means that corn farmer members are the organization. Our organization is governed by a board of directors of volunteer farmers who are elected by farmer members. Kentucky Corn Growers Association’s ability to influence policy decisions depends entirely on the strength of its membership.

By being a member, you make the Kentucky Corn Growers Association a stronger advocacy group.