The Eastern Kentucky Farmer Conference is an event tailored to those farming in the mountains.
Click here to learn about and register for the 2026 Eastern Kentucky Farmer Conference
Since 2017, this conference has provided Eastern Kentucky farmers with peer-led training, access to technical assistance providers, and networking opportunities with other farmers and resource providers.
AWARDS
We have a lot of phenomenal organizations, technical assistance providers, and farmers who have nurtured and supported the growth of mountain agriculture. Beginning in 2023, we began formally recognizing some of these wonderful folks. Who has been helpful to you? Who might you nominate next year?
Outstanding Farmer Ally (Organization)
It takes a village of people and organizations to support the growth we’ve seen in the region over the last decade. Over the last few years, we’ve seen what being able to pivot and support farmers can mean. These organizations are here for the good times and the bad, often stepping in when most needed and shrinking into the background when things are successful.
2023 – Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky
2024 – Grow Appalachia
2025 – Community Farm Alliance
Outstanding Farmer Resource (Individual)
When you hear the words, I’m from the government/the Ag Agency and I’m here to help, rolling your eyes is almost a given. However, we have some outstanding farmer supporters in our region. They come to your farms, they help you understand how to get things on your farm, varying from production advice to how to get funding, marketing, and growing your farm business. This award is for those who go above and beyond.
2023 – Connie Sturgill (USDA-NRCS)
2024 – Chris McKenzie (Grow Appalachia)
2025 – Jennifer Weeber (Community Farm Alliance)
Outstanding Farmer Peer:
Farmers have a lot on their plate just keeping the farm going. Sometimes, farmers go above and beyond being an example of how to farm and become a mentor to others, sharing what has helped them be successful and being open about their struggles. As a peer-nominated award, this is who is seen as a leader in farming in our region.
2023 – Maggie Bowling (Old Homeplace Farm, Clay County)
2024 – David Walker (Walker’s Family Farms, Pike County)
2025 – Bryce Bauman (Lazy Eight Stock Farm, Madison & Garrard Counties)