I would have never guessed that after the very first Kentucky Farm Bureau (KFB) meeting I attended more than 40 years ago I would be fortunate enough to take on the role of President. But what I did know, from the very beginning, was what a special organization it is.

I instantly saw the camaraderie that exists and how our grassroots way of operating serves as the foundation of KFB.

Now, as its 23rd President, I can honestly say we have continued on a path that has led us to be a leader for agriculture from every county in Kentucky to the steps of our capital to the halls of Congress.

We have been and continue to be staples in each county, and throughout our communities large and small, in our efforts to serve our members and the Commonwealth, as a whole.

We have accomplished our many goals over the years by working together, by being forthright in our discussions of issues, and by discovering opportunities that have made our farms, our communities, and this state a better place to live and work.

I have had the honor of watching KFB grow to be the strong advocate it is throughout my years of involvement. I have seen our county leaders continually step up to the plate when situations arose that required a collective response. I have experienced the family-type atmosphere that makes KFB so unique.

Most of all, I have had the privilege to learn from and work with so many great leaders of this organization, at all levels, who have been mentors and friends They have all had such a positive influence on me throughout my time with KFB.

As we move forward, as one organization, we will strive to continue the successes we have accomplished, we will work hard to endure the challenges that may come our way, and we can be assured that our relevance as agriculture advocates will not waiver but become stronger.

I am excited about the future of KFB, working diligently with our county members to build on the successes that have made this Farm Bureau recognized as one of the biggest and best in the country.

I will continue partnering with our commodity and legislative leaders to ensure our agriculture industry and rural communities move forward. 

While I can't make promises about the future, I can promise you this; whatever situation comes our way I will do my best to uphold our mission and continue a tradition that has been more than 100 years in the making.

I’m honored and humbled to be in this position and can’t thank enough all those who have supported me through the years.

As we look to a new year, my prayer is that it is one full of hope and opportunity, progress and positivity, growth and success as the Voice of Kentucky Agriculture.

Eddie Melton, President

Kentucky Farm Bureau