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In the far western corner of Kentucky lies Ballard County, a rural region at the convergence of the Mississippi and Ohio rivers. Winding riverbanks and 30,000 acres of verdant land make Ballard County a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the best ways to enjoy the county’s natural splendor is to visit the Ballard Wildlife Area, an 8,200-acre area in the Mississippi River floodplain that is open to the public from March 16 to October 14 annually. This area is characterized by oxbow lakes, bogs, grasslands, and tupelo and cypress swamps. Viewing opportunities are numerous for birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians—from raccoons, deer, and beavers to transient pelicans, wood ducks, and bald eagles.  Maintained roads provide access to various observation decks and photography blinds, or the more adventurous souls can opt to explore via kayak or canoe, though be warned some areas are quite remote and are home to venomous cottonmouth snakes (also known as water moccasins).

It's worth noting that the nearby Axe Lake State Nature Preserve, though only accessible by written permission, is an unusual ecosystem in the state. It is known for its large, intact bald cypress-tupelo swamp, a landscape more commonly seen in southern coastal areas of the United States. This fragile biome is home to at least eight rare plant and animal species.  

Back on land and out of the swamps, Ballard County is rife with history. The Wickliffe Mounds State Historic Site preserves an ancient Mississippian archaeological site. The museum offers a glimpse of the Native Americans that lived there and in other spots along the Mississippi River. These cultures, which farmed, hunted, and fished, built permanent homes and earthen mounds, the remnants of which can still be seen today. The largest intact mound at the site is known as the Ceremonial Mound, where political and religious activities would have taken place in the prehistoric Native American village.   

The Barlow House Museum in nearby Barlow also opens a fascinating window to the past. This expansive, 11-room Victorian mansion was home to Clifton Jesse Barlow, his wife, and their seven children. The museum showcases the family’s unusual collection of 20th century artifacts, furniture, crafts, and memorabilia.

The Fort Jefferson Site, overlooking the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi rivers, marks the location of the first European settlement in far western Kentucky.  It was a short-lived stronghold for protecting the western border of the United States during the Revolutionary War and, during the Civil War, offered logistical support and supplies for the Union Army. In the 1990s, dozens of local churches worked together to build a 95-foot cross on the site, which is lit at night and can be seen from Missouri and Illinois.

Though the brilliance of Ballard County undoubtedly lies in its quiet, natural beauty, there are some must-stop spots if you’re enjoying the rural back roads and need a bite to eat. Smokey D’s Family Restaurant’s smoked meats are well-loved by locals and travelers alike, and Kentucky Hillbilly BBQ serves up tasty menu items like the “Hillbilly BBQ Tater” and “Pawpaw’s Coleslaw.” The Bluegrass Restaurant is a small-town spot with noteworthy service serving up catfish and fried green tomatoes, and Mimmie’s Pizza and Subs is the perfect stop for some pub food (try their smiley face fries, General Tso’s wings, or dessert pizza if you’re feeling fun!). 

Hometown agents. Because personal service still matters.

For your convenience, Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance has insurance agents located in Anderson County. Click here for more information.

The 120 is a blog series produced by Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance highlighting each of Kentucky's 120 counties—because we're well-known for knowing Kentucky well.

The Kentucky Farmland Transition Initiative (KFTI) Network, a coalition of Kentucky agricultural organizations and institutions committed to preserving farmland for active farmers, has officially endorsed the Protecting American Farmlands Act introduced by U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell. As Kentucky continues to lose farmland at an alarming rate, network members are calling on Congress to pass this critical legislation to ensure farm families have the tools they need to transition their land to the next generation of farmers.

Launched by Kentucky Farm Bureau (KFB) in April 2024, the KFTI Network brings together key stakeholders — including farm organizations, agribusiness leaders and educational institutions — who are working collaboratively to address the challenges of farmland transition. 

“The farms we know and love as Kentuckians are at risk,” said KFB President Eddie Melton. “At the current rate of farmland loss, the number of Kentucky farmers will be cut in half over the next 60 years. We can’t solve this problem alone, and fortunately, we don’t have to. With the support of Senator McConnell and so many influential leaders in agriculture, we have an opportunity to make real progress in preserving our farmland. The passage of the Protecting American Farmlands Act is an essential step in this effort.”

“American farmers, especially those in Kentucky, are grappling with a steady decline in available farmland,” said Senator McConnell. “Now more than ever, we must preserve our agricultural land and keep it in production for the next generation of producers. The Protecting American Farmland Act reduces the tax burden on selling farmland, making it easier for retiring farmers to keep their land in the hands of those who will continue to cultivate it. This legislation, which I was proud to partner with the Kentucky Farm Bureau on, is a big win for farmers across the country, and one that will help plant the seeds of farming for generations to come.” 

Senator McConnell has been a member of the Agriculture Committee since his first day in the Senate and currently is the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Food and Nutrition, Specialty Crops, Organics and Research.

The Protecting American Farmlands Act offers incentives to help retiring farmers transition their land to active producers instead of selling to developers or investors who remove farmland from production. The legislation allows landowners who sell to active farmers to defer taxes on the proceeds of the sale. This provides a much-needed financial pathway for retiring farmers while ensuring that farmland remains in agricultural use.

• KFTI Network Members endorsing the legislation and urging Congress to pass this bill are:
• Agribusiness Association of Kentucky
• Community Farm Alliance
• Farm Credit Mid-America 
• Kentucky Association of Conservation Districts 
• Kentucky Association of Meat Processors
• Kentucky Burley and Dark Tobacco Producers Association 
• Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association 
• Kentucky Center for Agriculture and Rural Development
• Kentucky Corn Growers Association
• Kentucky Dairy Development Council 
• Kentucky Department of Agriculture
• Kentucky Forage and Grassland Council
• Kentucky Horticulture Council
• Kentucky Pork Producers Association 
• Kentucky Poultry Federation
• Kentucky Sheep and Goat Development Office
• Kentucky Small Grain Growers Association
• Kentucky Soybean Association
• Kentucky State University
• Kentucky Thoroughbred Association
• Kentucky Woodland Owners Association
• WAVE Ag Initiative

For more information on the Kentucky Farmland Transition Initiative Network, visit kyfarmlandtransition.com/about.

ABOUT THE KENTUCKY FARMLAND TRANSITION INITIATIVE

Kentucky Farm Bureau launched the Kentucky Farmland Transition Initiative to address the loss of farmland and the decline in the number of farmers across the state. This initiative is designed to help farm families navigate the complexities of farmland transition by providing access to valuable resources and educating them on their available options. 

ABOUT KENTUCKY FARM BUREAU

Kentucky Farm Bureau is the state’s largest general farm organization with more than 485,000 member families. For more news and updates from Kentucky Farm Bureau, visit KYFBNewsroom.com.

PHOTOS AND VIDEOS AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD

Click here for photos and video that accompany this story, including headshots of interview subjects and Kentucky farmland.

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SAVE TIME AND MONEY WITH FIELDCLOCK

Kentucky Farm Bureau members receive $10 off monthly pricing of any FieldClock plan selected. FieldClock brings their suite of labor management solutions uniquely designed to fit the needs of farmers, ranchers and rural businesses across the country to the table. Watch a demonstration of their services and explore all that FieldClock has to offer.

Check out their different apps that provide solutions for different needs:

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Kiosk: A self-serve app for employees that report to a central location

Admin Site: A web app that provides easy management of employees, fields, exports payout data and generates reports from anywhere

Employee Portal: A self-serve web app for employees to track and manage their time and product count

Visit FieldClock.com/FarmBureau today to learn more and find the plan for you!

*This discount is available in addition to any other FieldClock discounts, promotions, rebates, or offers occasionally available.

Framed by the verdant hills of the state’s Bluegrass Region, Anderson County, Kentucky, is a picturesque place to pass some time. While the region is notably famous for two well-known distilleries, Wild Turkey and Four Roses, there are lesser-known gems to uncover, too.

The beauty of the region is such that even a simple Sunday joyride can be entertainment enough. Or you can enjoy a sunset from the banks of Beaver Lake, test your skills at the Anderson County Community Park disc golf course, or hit the links at the Wild Turkey Trace Golf Course. 

Back in town, the county seat of Lawrenceburg highlights the area’s rich history. Grab a coffee at Off the Ground Coffee House and stroll the historic downtown where charming storefronts beckon to shoppers. Heavens to Besty! Bakery was recently recognized by Yelp for serving up the “best sandwiches in Kentucky,” but locals say you should try the jambalaya soup, too. This popular eatery is located on the ground floor of the Anderson Hotel, which is claimed by many to be haunted. Extravagant architecture abounds on South Main Street, where a handful of bourbon barons constructed homes in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Soak in the history of these estates “Built by Bourbon” using the informational banners located along the sidewalk. Make sure to stop by Lawrenceburg City Park for a moment of silence at the Healing Field, which pays tribute to Kentucky’s servicemen and women who have fallen in the War on Terrorism. The current field contains 119 flag poles, flags, and memorial plaques, each representing a Kentucky soldier who has given their life for our freedom. 

When the weather warms up, Lawrenceburg really comes to life with its many fairs and festivals. Live music fills the air every Friday during the summer concert series at Century Bank Park, and classic cars line the streets for monthly cruise-ins April through October. In September, Stave Fest highlights local and regional musicians and artists during a two-day event. And, in the fall, burgoo takes center stage as revelers from far and wide gather for a taste of Kentucky’s most famous stew at the Burgoo Festival.

Last, but certainly not least (that is, if you’re the thrill-seeking type) is Vertigo Bungee, an experience unlike any other in the eastern United States. Adrenaline junkies can plummet toward the Kentucky River 240 feet below, safely affixed to a century-old railroad bridge. Bungee jumps can be booked only one weekend a month, May through October.

Hometown agents. Because personal service still matters.

For your convenience, Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance has multiple agents located in Anderson County. Click here for more information.

The 120 is a blog series produced by Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance highlighting each of Kentucky's 120 counties—because we're well-known for knowing Kentucky well.

Adair County in South-Central Kentucky is nestled among some of Kentucky’s most well-known bodies of water, making it a hub for lake lovers. Bask in the sun or cast a line at the 8,210-acre Green River Lake, highly regarded by outdoor recreationists as an ideal spot for fishing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, paddling, and birding. You may even spot a bald eagle, which have been observed during all months of the year but are more readily viewable during the winter months (with peaks in January and February). Visitors or residents of Adair County also enjoy easy access to Lake Cumberland, Dale Hollow Lake, and Barren River Lake, all just a short drive away.

The great outdoors not your thing? That’s okay! The county seat, Columbia, has loads of small-town charm to show off.  Every Saturday morning from May through October, hit the town square for a farmers market featuring loads of local farm fresh meats, fruits, vegetables, and more. Enjoy some southern hospitality at Betty’s Country Cooking, a favorite stop for friendly service, comfort food favorites like biscuits and gravy, and their wildly popular dessert pies, or enjoy a delicious meal at Anderson’s Pizzeria, where live music is on the menu most every weekend.  Walk the historic downtown and pop into local shops, like the Nanwood Market, a family-owned boutique that has home goods, gifts, and even serves coffee and tea! See historical gems like the Adair County Courthouse, which is wonderfully preserved and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the Trabue Russell House, which was built in the 1820s and has a medicinal garden maintained by Adair County Extension Master Gardeners.

Adair County is also home to Lindsey Wilson College, a vibrant liberal arts college founded in 1903. A central point of the beautiful, pastoral campus is the John B. Begley Chapel, designed by the late world-renowned architect E. Fay Jones, a disciple of the legendary American architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

And while you are in the area, be sure to visit one of the Kentucky Farm Bureau Certified Farm Markets in Adair County: Holiday Farm Market and Penn Country Hams.

Hometown agents. Because personal service still matters.

For your convenience, Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance has multiple offices located in Adair County. Click here for more information.

The 120 is a blog produced by Kentucky Farm Bureau highlighting each of Kentucky's 120 counties—because we're well-known for knowing Kentucky well. 

Situated along the border of Tennessee, Allen County’s rural, rolling hills are an oasis for those seeking a little down time. Wind down and enjoy the native grass fields hugging Barren River Lake, where camping, hiking, and birding are popular pastimes. Spot indigo buntings and bald eagles during the day, and hear the hoot of the barred owl at night. With 10,000 surface acres of water, there are endless ways to experience the lake. Four boat ramps/recreational areas are located in the county, each offering unique ways to enjoy the natural world:

• Bailey’s Point is open April through October and, with 215 sites, is the largest of the Army Corps of Engineers’ campgrounds on Barren River Lake. Enjoy waterfront camping, hiking trails, private coves for swimming, playgrounds, and weekend movie nights.
• Access the water year-round through Brown’s Ford ramp, where you can launch your boat or kayak or cast a line along the banks.
• Port Oliver boat ramp is open year-round and has an amphitheater, nine lakeside picnic sites, and a winding, waterside boardwalk that is fully ADA accessible. Fun fact: Port Oliver is home to The Port Oliver Yacht Club, which was founded in 1967 and has more than 100 active members! The club hosts many social activities throughout the year.
• The Walnut Creek Marina is open seasonally and features a picnic area, camping, jet ski rentals, and a boat ramp and dock.

Barren River was named by early pioneers for its treeless fields, which were created by Native Americans who burned sections of woodland to attract grazing buffalo. The area has a storied past, and, as such, there are many historical features and sites to visit and explore in the area. The Halcomb House serves as a time capsule to the history of Scottsville and modern medicine. Dumont Hill at Dugas Park honors the site’s history as a former Civil War encampment. The 36- by 23-foot Rosenwald School, built in the 1920s, was at one time the center for the African American community in Scottsville. Booker T. Washington and Julius Rosenwald built almost 5,000 all-Black schools like this one in the early 1900s, and, thanks to the Allen County Chapter of the Kentucky African American Heritage Council’s preservation, it is one of only a few hundred Rosenwald schools left standing. While you are in the area, don’t forget to spend a tranquil moment at the Scottsville Public Spring, which was the main water source for the town’s settlers and a symbol of Allen County’s cultural heritage and natural resources. This blog would also be glaringly incomplete if it did not mention that Allen County is the official birthplace of Dollar General! J.L. Turner and his son, Cal Turner, Sr., started the concept in Scottsville in 1955.  

With all that exploring, you’re bound to work up an appetite. For those who prefer to dine locally, Scottsville has you covered. Stay lakeside and enjoy a southern breakfast or one of “the best hotdogs on the planet” at the eclectic Paradise Point. Stop into Earl G Dumplin’s, a longtime gathering place for locals, to socialize over a plate of gravy-covered anything, or stop by Harper’s Catfish, family-owned for more than 40 years and serving up—you guessed it—catfish (and much more!) Don’t be alarmed by the gravel road leading to it—yes, you’re going in the right direction. Would you believe that these are just a few examples of the local eats waiting to be tasted?

While you are in the area, be sure to visit one of the Kentucky Farm Bureau Certified Farm Markets in Allen County: Habegger’s Amish Market, known for their delicious fried pies, and Peach Tree Farm and Greenhouse, owned by the 2024 Kentucky Farm Bureau Farm Woman of the Year, Kori Thomas.

Hometown agents. Because personal service still matters.

For your convenience, Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance has multiple offices located in Allen County. Click here for more information.

The 120 is a blog series produced by Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance highlighting each of Kentucky's 120 counties—because we're well-known for knowing Kentucky well.

OFFICERS

DIRECTORS

United States Senator Mitch McConnell introduced the Protecting American Farmlands Act on Tuesday, a bill to provide farmers with capital gains tax relief and keep agricultural land in the hands of active producers. The legislation addresses a growing crisis in farmland retention, ensuring that retiring farmers can transition their operations to the next generation while preserving farmland for long-term agricultural use.

"Kentucky Farm Bureau is proud to once again stand alongside Senator McConnell in championing legislation that strengthens the future of American agriculture. The Protecting American Farmlands Act is the outgrowth of important work done through our Kentucky Farm Bureau Farmland Transition Initiative,” said Kentucky Farm Bureau President Eddie Melton.

Read the full bill here.

Kentucky’s farming landscape has changed significantly in the past two decades. Since 2002, the state has lost 1.4 million acres of farmland, a 10% decline. The number of farms has also dropped by 20%, while the average age of Kentucky farmers has increased to 57.1 years. As farmland continues to appreciate in value, farmers face increasing challenges in acquiring land, while outside investors are buying up farmland and either developing it for non-agriculture purposes entirely or leasing it back to operators—limiting farmers' ability to build equity in their land.

The Protecting American Farmlands Act builds on the work of the Kentucky Farm Bureau Farmland Transition Initiative, which seeks to keep farmland in production and ease financial barriers for retiring farmers. The bill provides critical tax relief, allowing landowners who sell to active farmers to roll the gains from that sale into an individual retirement account. By deferring taxes, this measure gives retiring farmers more control over their financial future while helping keep farmland in production.

President Melton added, “This legislation not only helps ensure that our nation’s farmland remains in the hands of active farmers, but it also provides retiring farmers with a viable pathway to transition their operations to the next generation. We look forward to the lasting impact this legislation will have on farming communities here in Kentucky and across the country."

By reducing financial barriers for farm transitions, this bill gives retiring farmers an option to sell their land without losing significant portions of their proceeds to taxes. It also provides a more flexible retirement strategy, addressing the common challenge of farmers being “asset rich and cash poor” in their later years.

Kentucky Farm Bureau has long been a leader in advocating for policies that support farm families, and this legislation represents a major step forward in ensuring the long-term viability of American agriculture.

For more information on the Kentucky Farm Bureau Farmland Transition Initiative, visit kyfarmlandtransition.com.

The Commodity Division represents the commodity interests of Farm Bureau’s farmer members to further increase the production, promotion, and marketing of agricultural commodities with the goal of increasing net farm income. The Division works with various KFB commodity committees and acts as a liaison with other commodity organizations or groups interested in the state’s agricultural industry.

Kentucky Farm Bureau Beef Tour

The 2025 Kentucky Farm Bureau Beef Tour will be held in Louisiana in April of 2025. This will be a great opportunity for Kentucky Farm Bureau members to tour successful livestock and agricultural operations and to enjoy some fun activities along the way. We expect a high level of member interest in this tour. 

Applications for this tour are now closed. 

 

Vehicle Regulation

Farm Vehicle Regulations Booklet
Your single source of information about state and federal laws and regulations governing farm vehicles traveling on the state's roads.  

If you are interested in receiving a copy of this booklet, please click the printable pdf below or contact Kyle Kelly at Kyle.Kelly@kyfb.com or call 502-495-5000 ext. 7417. 

Farm Vehicle Regulations Book

Farmer of the Year

 

For many years, Kentucky Farm Bureau has given farmers the opportunity to gain recognition for their hard work and knowledge about agriculture through participation in our young farmer contests. Back in 2006, we began a recognition program for farmers of all ages called the Farmer of the Year award. This program rewards farmers for their commitment to excellence in the agriculture industry and their efficiency in farming practices, sound financial management, and leadership in civic organizations.

There are many innovative and successful farmers in Kentucky and this awards program seeks to recognize them for their outstanding farming operations and leadership in our industry. We appreciate your help in recruiting farmers for this contest. If you have any questions about the Farmer of the Year contest or would like to nominate someone for this award, please do not hesitate to contact Renee Carrico, Commodity Division Director at (502) 495-5000. You can access the application for the 2025 Farmer of the Year by clicking the link below. Applications are due by April 18, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. ET. 

2025 KFB Farmer of the Year Application 

 

Black Vulture Depredation Permits

Kentucky Farm Bureau has received a statewide depredation permit that allows for a limited number of black vulture “takes” where black vultures are depredating on livestock. Livestock producers who are experiencing depredation may apply for a Livestock Protection depredation sub-permit that if approved will allow producers to protect livestock against black vulture attacks. This program allows for takes of black vultures or incidental takes of turkey vultures only. No other protected migratory bird species is authorized to be taken under this program.

All applications and reports will be made direct to Fran McCall, Commodity Specialist, either by email at Fran.McCall@kyfb.com or by phone at 502-495-5000.

Applications must be fully completed, signed, and dated by the livestock producer with the applicant agreeing to the terms and conditions of the original statewide depredation permit. Applications must be returned for consideration to the Commodity Division. Because of the limited number of “takes” Kentucky Farm Bureau is issued, all applications will be considered based on past livestock losses, number of livestock on the applicant’s farming operation, number of black vulture roosts, and approximate number of birds in the immediate vicinity. 

Producers cannot be issued a depredation permit by USFWS and apply for and be approved for a KFBF depredation sub-permit. Any livestock producer experiencing severe depredation from black vultures is encouraged to apply for an individual migratory bird depredation permit from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and/or work with USDA APHIS Wildlife Services (WS) to address their specific situation.

Black Vulture Depredation Sub-Permit Process 

2024 - 2025 Black Vulture Depredation Sub-Permit Application