Kentucky Department of Agriculture

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Agriculture Commissioner James Comer today proclaimed May as Beef Month in Kentucky in honor of one of the Commonwealth’s most significant agricultural industries. Commissioner Comer issued the proclamation in a ceremony in his Frankfort office.

“As one of nearly 40,000 beef cattle producers in Kentucky, I understand the importance of the industry to the state’s economy,” Commissioner Comer said. “Beef cattle sales accounted for $615 million in cash receipts to Kentucky producers in 2010. Beef also is an important part of a balanced, healthy diet. I urge all Kentuckians to join me in commemorating May as Beef Month in Kentucky.”

Kentucky is the largest beef cattle state east of the Mississippi River with nearly 1 million beef cows as of Jan. 1. A 2007 University of Kentucky study found that the beef industry had a total direct, indirect, and induced economic impact of more than $1.8 billion.

Commissioner Comer is founder and owner of James Comer Jr. Farms, a 950-acre beef cattle, timber and hay farming operation in his native Monroe County. He also co-owns Comer Land & Cattle Co., a family farming operation, with his father and brother.

The Kentucky Department of Agriculture helps producers find new markets for their cattle, conducts beef cattle shows, tracks market prices, and protects Kentucky’s herds from disease. To find out more about the Department’s services, go to www.kyagr.com.

The Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association serves as the voice of Kentucky’s beef farm families, provides information and education, and works to enhance producer profitability. For more information about the KCA, go to www.kycattle.org.