Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing

Until the mid-20th century, Kentucky was considered an agricultural state. Since that time, other sectors have overtaken agriculture as the primary contributors to the state’s gross product. However, while the number of farms and the acreage devoted to agriculture have declined, average farm size has increased, and more than half of the state is still in farmland. The vast majority of Kentucky’s farms are owned by individuals or families (as opposed to corporations), and almost one-fifth of the state’s total workforce is employed in farm or farm-related jobs. Principal crops include corn (maize), soybeans, hay, and tobacco, although tobacco acreage has been declining since the late 20th century. Much of the tobacco is exported. Kentucky also is a top producer of horses, mules, broiler chickens, and cattle.

The Bluegrass region, with the richest soil, specializes in horses, cattle, and tobacco. The Pennyrile has more diversified farming and produces a variety of crops and livestock, including beef and dairy cattle. The Western Coalfield and the Purchase specialize in corn, soybeans, and tobacco, although some livestock, especially hogs, and smaller acreages of other crops are found. Forestry is important in eastern Kentucky, where most of the land is unsuitable for farming, and in the eastern part of the Pennyrile; the trees cut are mostly hardwoods, primarily oaks. Kentucky has little commercial fishing, but its streams and reservoirs provide excellent opportunities for sport fishing, and they attract numerous tourists.

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