Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell visited Hayden Farms in Whitesville on Sunday to proclaim September as Poultry Month during the farm’s annual Fall Market event. Shell emphasized the importance of Kentucky’s poultry industry, which plays a significant role in the state’s agricultural economy.
“Kentucky’s poultry industry is thriving and continues to be a major driver in our agricultural sector,” Shell said. “We’re proud that so many younger farmers are able to get started in agriculture through poultry farming. It’s an industry that provides opportunities because it allows them to cash flow and put it on their balance sheets.”
Shell said Kentucky is home to more than 850 poultry farms and 3,200 poultry houses spread across 50 counties. The industry supports 6,300 direct jobs and creates an additional 20,000 jobs in related fields. Shell highlighted that about 25% of Kentucky-grown corn feeds the state’s poultry industry, further enhancing its role in the state’s agricultural economy.
“Companies like Perdue, Tyson, and Pilgrim have been instrumental in helping new farmers enter the poultry business,” Shell said.
Hayden Farms is operated by second-generation farmers Daniel and Danielle Hayden and is a key contributor to the local poultry sector. The farm raises broiler chickens and has grown significantly since its first chicken barns were built in 1997. Today, the farm operates eight state-of-the-art houses equipped with advanced technology for efficient and humane bird care.
The Hayden Farms Fall Market, a popular community event, featured nearly 70 local vendors and numerous family-friendly activities, including chicken house tours, inflatables, and live music. Since its start in 2019 with just three vendors, the market has become a fall staple in the area, attracting hundreds of visitors each year.
With Poultry Month officially recognized, Shell emphasized the continued growth and success of Kentucky’s poultry industry.
“It’s essential that we recognize the value of our poultry farmers and the role they play in feeding our nation, supporting the rural character of the state, and providing one of the safest, most abundant, and affordable sources of protein,” Shell said.
