FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 24, 2025) – Kentucky goat producers and industry stakeholders joined Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell today as he signed a proclamation declaring April as Goat Month in Kentucky.

“This month we celebrate the diversity goats bring to our agricultural landscape across Kentucky,” Commissioner Shell said. “They certainly add a uniqueness to farm life, but they are also an excellent source of protein and dairy products. This month we salute all that goats add to our state’s agricultural outlook.”

In the United States, goats are primarily used for producing dairy products, such as milk, yogurt, and cheese, and meat called chevon. Kentucky has 5,800 dairy goats producing quality breeding stock, and healthy, all natural skin products, such as soaps and lotions, ranking the state 23rd in the U.S. for milk goat production.

The popularity of goat meat is increasing each year as consumers recognize its benefits. Goat meat is lean with low levels of saturated fat and cholesterol, high levels of iron, and packed with proteins and vitamins. Kentucky ranks sixth in the nation for meat goat inventory with 60,000 head, an increase of 1,000 over last year. The meat goat inventory has increased 5.9 percent since 2024, being produced by nearly 4,000 farmers.

In addition to their nutritious value, goats can increase property values. Across the world, farmers use them to combat noxious weeds on their property, promote healthy forests, and prevent wildfires.

“From chevon to mohair to soaps, Kentucky's goat industry has a place on every farm and in every home,” said Kelley Yates, executive director of the Kentucky Sheep and Goat Development Office. “Our producers pride themselves on raising healthy, quality animals that provide consumers with wholesome and beneficial products they know are nutritious and safe for their families. Kentucky's consumers are fortunate to be able to access these products through farmer's markets, roadside stands, grocery stores, and online.”

The Kentucky goat industry adds more than $3.6 million in revenue to Kentucky’s agriculture receipts. Warren County is the top county in goat production with nearly 2,800 head, followed by Crittenden, Barren, Clinton, and Nelson counties rounding out the top five.

To celebrate the Goat Month, Farmer and Frenchman Winery and Café is teaming up with the Kentucky Sheep and Goat Development Office to provide a six-course dining experience featuring chevon from two Kentucky goat farms at 7 p.m. CDT Thursday, April 24 in Robards, Ky. For tickets or more information, click here.

A variety of goat products can also be found at local farmers’ markets or consumers can purchase directly from a producer. The Kentucky Sheep and Goat Development Office offers information on its website with tips for cooking this lean, delicious meat. The website also offers a buyer's guide at: https://www.kysheepandgoat.org/on-your-plate.