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Kentucky High School Crop Scouting Competition registration open through April 10
PRINCETON, Ky.—The University of Kentucky is excited to announce its annual High School Crop Scouting Competition, a career-focused contest for students interested in production agriculture.
Italian Ryegrass Control Field Tour Slated for March 27
PRINCETON, Ky. — For a second consecutive year, the University of Kentucky will host the Italian Ryegrass Control Field Tour. Presented by Dr. Travis Legleiter, UK Extension Associate Professor – Weed Science, this year’s tour will take place Thursday, March 27, 2025.
Kentucky Corn Growers Association Amplifies the Call for Year-Round E15
The Kentucky Corn Growers Association (KYCGA) joined farmers nationwide in a campaign led by the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) to push for the reintroduction of year-round E15. This legislation, referred to as the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, was recently brought to the House and Senate again, with Congressman Comer as a co-signer.
Kentucky Corn Growers Association Works with NCGA to Monitor Tariffs
In response to the tariffs imposed between the United States and its trading partners, Illinois farmer and National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) President Kenneth Hartman Jr. released the following statement:
‘Pearls of wisdom’: Hardin County farmer receives 2025 UK Grain Crops Science Service Award
Lexington, Ky.— The University of Kentucky Grain Crops Science Group is pleased to announce Hardin County farmer Richard Preston as the 2025 UK Grain Crops Science Service Award recipient. Previously known as the UK Wheat Science Service Award, the award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to the success and effectiveness of UK Grain Crops research and was presented to Preston at the recent UK Winter Wheat Meeting at the Bruce Convention Center in Hopkinsville.
White House Actions Every Kentucky Corn Farmer Should Know
As the new administration and Congress take office, the nation’s political landscape is positioned for significant changes.Legislation has been introduced in both the House and Senate aimed at ensuring year-round access to fuels containing up to 15 percent ethanol, commonly known as E15. The proposed bill, called the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, aims to remove the summer restrictions on E15 sales.
Keeping Kentucky Farmers Informed on Tariffs and Global Market Access
The Trump administration moved on Feb. 1 to place a 25% tariff on goods imported from Canada and Mexico. A couple of days later, the president agreed to a 30-day pause as the U.S. continues to negotiate with the two countries.
I am thinking a lot about change as I prepare to leave my current position at the National Corn Growers Association.
I thoroughly enjoyed leading NCGA’s public policy efforts and could easily stay in this job for the rest of my career. But I realize change is necessary if we are to learn, grow and expand our horizons.
Reflecting on Change
Change is hard. Change is scary. We are reminded at different periods in our lives – sometimes happily, other times painfully – that for everything there is a season and a time to every purpose.
I am thinking a lot about change as I prepare to leave my current position at the National Corn Growers Association.
I thoroughly enjoyed leading NCGA’s public policy efforts and could easily stay in this job for the rest of my career. But I realize change is necessary if we are to learn, grow and expand our horizons.
NEW GRANT FUNDING TO EXPAND CONSERVATION SUPPORT FOR KENTUCKY CORN GROWERS
Precision Conservation Management (PCM), in collaboration with the IL Corn Growers Association and Kentucky Corn Growers Association, has received new grant funding from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) to bolster regenerative agriculture practices. This grant is part of the $14.7 million NFWF awarded nationwide to advance soil health and improve water quality on working lands.
Corn Growers Win Trade Dispute Against Mexico: How We Got Here
NCGA Director of Public Policy, Trade and Biotechnology, Nancy Matinez discusses the successful efforts of U.S. corn grower associations in engaging with the Biden Administration and Congress to address the trade dispute with Mexico under the USMA framework.
Kentucky Distilleries and Precision Conservation Management Join Forces to Enhance Regenerative Corn Farming Practices throughout Commonwealth
Four leading spirits companies and the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) are joining forces with Precision Conservation Management (PCM) and the Kentucky Corn Growers Association (KCGA) to launch a five-year, $2.8 million initiative for Kentucky corn farmers.
Recent Corn Grower Win Shows How to Move the Needle in Washington
Persistent advocacy by corn growers secured a major win in Washington, protecting access to Mexico’s market under the USMCA.
Corn Growers Win Dispute with Mexico Over GM Corn Ban
In a major win for corn growers, a dispute panel ruled that Mexico violated its commitments under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement when it issued a decree that banned genetically modified corn imports in early 2023.
As We Conclude 2024, a Look at the INS & OUTS In Washington
The National Corn Growers Association’s 2024 INs & OUTs as we recap a whirlwind year of political shifts, agricultural advocacy, and market innovation.
KYCPC Directs Farmer-Derived Funds to Prove Ethanol Enhances Human Health
Kentucky Corn is advancing human health research, using farmer funds to showcase ethanol’s role in reducing harmful emissions and its link to combating cancer risks, paving the way for sustainable energy solutions.
KYCPC Research Committee Approves Funding for Key Corn Research Projects
The Kentucky Corn Promotion Council (KYCPC) Research Committee met at the Hardin County Extension Office to review and approve funding for a slate of agricultural research projects aimed at boosting corn production and profitability for Kentucky farmers.
Making It Sustainable: NCGA Works on Sustainability Efforts as Growers Work to Access Aviation Market
In January, we will swear in a new president and members of Congress. With these changes will come new leadership and direction at some of the government’s top agencies. Among the issues top of mind at the National Corn Growers Association is protecting the sustainable aviation tax credit and making it accessible to farmers.
Putting Your Checkoff Dollars to Work
Kentucky Corn is putting your checkoff dollars to work with impactful media campaigns promoting ethanol as a sustainable, affordable fuel. From Unleaded88 billboards to “Dad-Approved” commercials during the PGA Tour and Summer Olympics, KY Corn is raising awareness and driving demand for corn-based ethanol.
Celebrating 50 Years of Corn and Connection in Union County
Harvest season in Union County, KY brings the community together for the 50th Annual Morganfield Lions Club Corn Festival. This year’s theme, “Authentic Roots, Ambitious Pursuits,” highlights the festival’s original mission: to honor Union County’s agricultural heritage and strengthen community bonds.
Impact of Renewed China-U.S. Tariffs on U.S. Agriculture: Consequences for Corn and Soybean Farmers
How retaliatory tariffs could shift global market share, drive down U.S. crop prices, and affect rural economies, while benefiting competitor nations like Brazil and Argentina.
‘me energy GmbH’ Takes Top Prize at Radicle Corn Value Chain Challenge
‘me energy GmbH’ wins 2024 Radicle Corn Value Chain Challenge, earning $1 million for its corn-bioethanol-powered rapid chargers. Sponsored by U.S. Corn Farmers and the National Corn Growers Association, the challenge supports innovations that expand sustainable uses for corn, from renewable energy to eco-friendly materials. Learn more about these groundbreaking projects shaping the future of sustainable agriculture.
U.S. Ethanol Exports Acheive a Record-Breaking Year
In the 2023/2024 marketing year, the U.S. ethanol industry achieved a record export total of 1.75 billion gallons, utilizing 619 million bushels of corn. This represents a 43% increase from the previous year, breaking the prior 2018 record.
Four Questions for NCGA President Kenneth Hartman Jr.
Kenneth Hartman Jr., the newly elected president of the National Corn Growers Association answers questions to pressing issues like passing a robust Farm Bill, expanding ethanol markets, and more.
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.
Growers Applaud Move by U.S. House Members to Expand Ethanol Access
The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) applauded a bipartisan group of members of the U.S. House for introducing the “Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act,” providing consumers with year-round access to higher blends of ethanol.
Four Finalists Announced by Radicle Growth for Corn Value Chain Challenge
Radicle Growth unveils the four finalists of the highly anticipated Radicle Corn Value Chain Challenge. Sponsored by U.S. corn farmers and funded in partnership with the Kentucky Corn Promotion Council and other state corn checkoffs.
Carbon Intensity Scores and 45Z Tax Credits: What Farmers Should Know
Watch an informative webinar for insights on Carbon Intensity Scores, the 45Z tax credit, and steps farmers can take during the 2025 crop season.
Kentucky Corn Growers Have Strong Presence at the 120th Kentucky State Fair
The Kentucky Corn Growers had a significant impact at the 120th Kentucky State Fair, showcasing their dedication to agriculture, the environment, and the vital role corn plays in our everyday lives to bridge the gap between farmers and consumers.
UK Corn & Soybean Research Update
The latest research from the University of Kentucky highlights emerging challenges and innovative strategies in agriculture, focusing on Italian ryegrass management, the complexities of sulfur deficiency diagnostics, green stem syndrome in soybeans, and weather service rainfall reporting accuracy.
New Carbon Resource for Farmers: Understanding Carbon Market Programs vs. Carbon Intensity Scores
NCGA has created a resource to help farmers understand the differences between Carbon Market Programs and Carbon Intensity (CI) Scores and how each approach affects farming practices and profitability.
NCGA, Allied Ag Groups, Step Up Calls for Congress to Pass Farm Bill
Amidst pressing economic challenges facing farmers, the NCGA and allied agricultural groups are intensifying efforts to urge Congress to pass the critical farm bill before year’s end.
Over 300 Groups Call on Congress to Pass Robust Farm Bill
Over 300 groups, including the Kentucky Corn Growers Association, urge Congress to pass a vital farm bill offering enhanced support to the nation’s farmers amid economic challenges and unpredictable conditions.
EPA Advances Frameworks to Address Pesticides and Endangered Species
EPA unveils new guidelines integrating endangered species protection with pesticide use regulations, affecting U.S. corn growers.
UK Graduate Student Named National Corn Growers Association Research Ambassador
University of Kentucky graduate research assistant Travis Banet in the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences at the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment (CAFE) was selected to join NCGA’s Research Ambassador program.
Collaborative Research Reveals Fungicide Resistance Threat in Corn
University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment researchers are uncovering a growing threat to corn production: fungicide resistance. A study published in Plant Health Progress reveals evidence of resistance in a common corn pathogen, revealing a need for judicious fungicide use to ensure their long-term effectiveness.
August Brings in the Heat, Congressional Recess While Grower Priorities Remain on Ice
Events on the national stage may be moving quickly with many twists and turns. But in Washington, legislation is progressing at a snail’s pace with the farm bill hanging in the balance.
Atrazine Update
Despite the EPA’s proposed increase in atrazine’s aquatic level of concern to 9.7 ppb, serious questions persist due to unchanged mitigation maps and ignored water monitoring data.
Important USDA Crop Insurance and Disaster Relief Program Updates
Updates for Kentucky corn farmers regarding the USDA’s enhancement of the Enhanced Coverage Option (ECO) for increased premium support starting in the 2025 crop year, and the upcoming deadline for the 2022 Emergency Relief Program (ERP).
Advancing U.S.-Japan Trade Relations with Sustainability Benefits of U.S. Corn and Ethanol
Mick Henderson of Commonwealth Agri-Energy and other industry leaders promote U.S. corn and ethanol sustainability to Japanese stakeholders at the 2024 Corn and Ethanol Conference in Tokyo. Discover how these efforts aim to strengthen U.S.-Japan agricultural trade relations.
Grower Advocates, Navigating Unprecedented Times, Push for Bipartisanship
Can we meet in the middle? Navigating Washington in a highly partisan political climate is difficult. Yet, there is so much important work to do before Congress adjourns this year. Multiple pieces of comprehensive legislation need to be passed helping farmers on the ethanol front for not only domestic but also international markets.
KY Agriculture Council Leads the Way in Developing a Strategic Plan for Industry Development
The Kentucky Agriculture Council is collaboratively shaping the future of agriculture with its five-year Strategic Roadmap, engaging over 250 Kentucky leaders to support and expand that state’s agricultural industry.
U.S. Headed for Record Ag Trade Deficit
After decades of substantial U.S. agricultural trade surpluses, the U.S. is forecast to experience a record trade deficit for the second year in a row. American Farm Bureau Federation economists analyzed the factors contributing to the deficit in their latest Market Intel report.
Reflecting on Forward Farm Bill Movement
After a long impasse, there has finally been some movement to reauthorize the farm bill. The House Committee on Agriculture recently passed the Farm, Food, and National Security Act by a vote of 33-21.
Building Global Markets for Kentucky Corn Farmers: Three Facts You Should Know
Learn how Kentucky corn farmers are expanding their reach by tapping into global markets.
A Farmers Guide to the GREET Model
The Department of Energy’s (DOE) Argonne National Laboratory’s GREET model is catching the eyes of not only airlines and policy gurus, but also midwestern corn farmers. The model is critical to corn-based ethanol’s pathway to the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) market.
Corn Growers Focus on Opening Markets, Enforcing Trade Agreements
It’s an evening we all remember in the Washington office of the National Corn Growers Association and is now a familiar war story that is brought up often at our gatherings. On a cold February night in 2023 as staff settled into their homes after a day at the office, our communications director sent an email around: “Please be advised, Mexico plans to ban all genetically modified white corn imports beginning tomorrow.”
Corn Growers Disappointed in GREET Model Update
An announcement this week by the U.S. Department of Treasury regarding the final guidance on eligibility for the Sustainable Aviation Fuel tax credits enacted in the Inflation Reduction Act was met with concern from leaders at the National Corn Growers Association who say they are now committed to ensuring that the updated guidelines for the credit are vastly improved.
CORE Program Continues Strong with Graduations, Alumni Events and Plans for Class 7
For nearly 20 years, the CORE Program has been committed to investing in farmers at critical stages in their careers by enhancing knowledge and creating robust peer networks for farmers, especially those who are on the cusp of beginning their careers. Class 6 recently celebrated their completion of the program in Bowling Green during their seventh and final session.
Kentucky Corn Growers Achieve Major Ethanol Priority for 2024
EPA announced a decision to utilize its authority to allow consumers to maintain access to E15 throughout the 2024 summer driving season.
A Washington Filled with High Drama and Palace Intrigue
Plots have thickened. Majorities have shrunk. The knives are out. It’s April in Washington but you would be forgiven for thinking it’s the Ides of March.
From Guatemala to Thailand: Kentucky Corn Producers Connect Globally on Sustainability
Kentucky corn producers connect globally to advance local corn production and sustainable farming practices.
Corn Demand Takes a Hit in EPA’s New Tailpipe Rule
Motor gasoline use is expected to decline in the future even under a baseline case, but new tailpipe emissions rules really put the pedal to the metal – rapidly accelerating that process. This would be a major shock on demand for corn used to produce ethanol spurring potentially devastating impacts on farmers and the rural economy.
Recap from the 2024 Commodity Classic in Houston
Over 11,500 attendees, including more than 4,600 farmers, exhibitors, industry stakeholders, and ag media, gathered in Houston from February 28 to March 2 for the 2024 Commodity Classic.
Corn Growers: EPA’s New Tailpipe Standard Will Hurt Family Farms
The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) expressed grave concern and disappointment with the Environmental Protection Agency’s final 2027-2032 emissions standards for sedans and light- and medium-duty trucks.
Kentucky Corn Applauds EPA’s Acceptance of Atrazine Science Panel Recommendations
EPA recently agreed with the recommendations of the atrazine Scientific Advisory Panel (SAP), removing several poor-quality studies that played a role in the agency’s recommendation for an ultra-low aquatic level of concern for atrazine.
Radicle Growth Launches the Radicle Corn Value Chain Challenge Sponsored by Corn Farmers
Supported by the Kentucky Corn Promotion Council, the search is on for AgTech, Chemical, or Material Start-ups and Growth Companies worldwide whose innovative technologies and business models create new uses for corn and long-term sustainable demand for corn production.
Kentucky Corn: A Vital Part of Waterways Council’s Advocacy for Inland Waterways Transportation
Kentucky’s corn growers have been on the front lines to improve our Nation’s lock and dam infrastructure for nearly a decade. With almost 1,590 miles, the Bluegrass State ranks fourth in the Nation in navigable waterways.
Redmond Greenwell Emerges as Trailblazing Leader in Corn Industry
Redmond Greenwell, a sixth-generation farmer from Morganfield, Kentucky, is making an impact in the agricultural community through his leadership roles and participation in Kentucky Corn’s CORE program. With a passion for farming, Redmond is dedicated to continuing his family’s farm legacy and ensuring the success of Greenwell Acres, a 7500-acre farm growing corn and soybeans and raising cattle.
A Decade of Policy Advancements Propel Bourbon Industry’s Impact To Local, State and Global Economies
Spurred by a decade of legislative changes to Kentucky’s archaic alcohol laws, the Commonwealth’s signature Bourbon industry now provides more jobs, generates more payroll, pays more taxes, attracts more tourists and features more distilleries than ever before, according to the newly published Bourbon Economic Impact Report.
Thousands of Corn Farmers Across the Country Caution Biden Administration Against Solely Focusing on Electric Vehicles at Expense of Biofuels in Climate Fight
A letter signed by 3,466 farmers from across the country, including 62 from Kentucky, was sent to President Biden today expressing concern that his administration is taking a short-sighted approach to addressing climate change by prioritizing the use of electric vehicles over biofuels, such as corn ethanol, as it works to drastically lower the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions.
Brandon Robey of Adairville, Kentucky, Elected as Board Member for District 4 of the Kentucky Corn Growers Association
Brandon Robey, a first-generation farmer from Adairville, Kentucky, shared his story about getting into farming and discussed his appointment as a board member for District 4 of the Kentucky Corn Growers Association (KYCGA). With a passion for agriculture, Robey inspires both resilience in chasing dreams and involvement in organizations like KYCGA.
John Mahan of Paris, Kentucky, Elected as Board Member for District 5 of the Kentucky Corn Growers Association
John Mahan, a fourth-generation farmer from Paris, Kentucky, discussed his appointment as a board member for District 5 of the Kentucky Corn Growers Association (KYCGA). With a background in agriculture and extensive involvement in organizations beyond farming, Mahan brings a unique perspective to his new role.
Like the Year Before It, 2024 Will Be Filled with Challenges and Opportunities as We Advocate for Corn Grower Priorities
If we are buoyed by last year’s wins, we are also feeling the continued presence of its challenges, many of which promise to be more pronounced in the year ahead.
Kentucky Corn Leaders Excel in NCGA’s 2023-2024 Leadership Academy
The Bluegrass State has been well represented in NCGA’s premier leadership development program throughout the past year. Kentucky Corn’s Brandon Hunt and Josh Lancaster were selected to participate in NCGA’s Leadership Academy program for 2023-2024.
Scientific Advisory Panel Report Reaffirms Flawed Science in Atrazine Assessment
A 2023 Scientific Advisory Panel (SAP) report echoes corn grower comments in calling for the removal of several low-quality studies used in the atrazine reregistration process. The Kentucky Corn Growers Association and the Triazine Network, a national coalition of farm organizations representing well over 30 crops in 40 states, credits strong grassroots involvement with this positive step in ensuring EPA utilizes the best science available.
Kentucky Corn Grower Places 1st in National Corn Yield Contest Category
The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) has announced the winners of the 2023 National Corn Yield Contest. Among this impressive group of farmers proving the ingenuity and resiliency of the U.S. farmer, Kentucky farmer Kelly Padgett of Vine Grove, KY, placed first nationally in the No-Till Non-Irrigated Class with a yield of 337.3216 bushels per acre.
Agricultural Community to the International Trade Commission: Tariffs on Moroccan Fertilizers Hampering Family Farms
Kentucky Corn Growers Association, along with the National Corn Growers Association and 56 other agriculture organizations, urged the U.S. International Trade Commission today to consider the impacts that tariffs on Moroccan shipments of fertilizers are having on family farms.
Vital Link Between Kentucky’s Corn and Poultry Production
With one in every four rows of Kentucky corn destined for poultry feed, learn how the symbiosis between corn and poultry not only fuels local markets but also contributes to global food chains.