Louisville, KY (October 25, 2021) – Wesley Parker of Christian County will be honored as the 2021 Kentucky Farm Bureau (KFB) “Farmer of the Year” during the organization’s 102^nd annual meeting at the Galt House in Louisville this December.

This annual KFB award recognizes an individual whose efforts not only strengthen the state’s agriculture industry but also demonstrate service and leadership both on and off the farm.

“It is very humbling to be named the Kentucky Farm Bureau Farmer of the Year,” said Parker. “I have enjoyed being a part of this organization for many years and am proud to be part of Kentucky’s farming community. It’s a huge honor to be recognized and I look forward to continuing to do my part to grow and strengthen the agriculture community in Kentucky.”

Parker, who has been farming for 44 years, raises cattle and row crops – including corn, soybeans, wheat, tobacco, pasture and hay – on the 1,650 acres he currently farms.

Over the years, Parker has seen many successes but also some challenges, especially being the only full-time farmer on his farm. He noted that the biggest challenge he’s faced during his tenure as a farmer came in the 1980s, due to the droughts. “I feel like we learned well from those younger year mistakes. Any other problems with the farm are minor inconveniences compared to that.” Parker noted.

Throughout his farming career, Parker has served on numerous committees and been a part of a variety of organizations. He has been on the Christian County Farm Bureau Board of Directors since 1988 and has served in multiple roles at Southside Church of Christ in Hopkinsville. Additionally, he currently serves as a Conservation District Supervisor, where he says he is exposed to ideas and practices that help conserve land and resources.

Parker and his wife, Marsha, have 2 adult daughters and 5 grandchildren.

In addition to the statewide recognition and prizes, Parker will represent Kentucky in the 2022 Swisher Sweets/Sunbelt Ag Expo Southern Farmer of the Year contest, the South’s most prestigious agricultural award.

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Cutline: Wesley Parker of Christian County is the 2021 Kentucky Farm Bureau “Farmer of the Year”.