100 Years of Better Pastures in Kentucky

By Jennifer Elwell and Susan Baniak

Improving forage crops for higher-producing grazing livestock was a primary goal of the University of Kentucky’s agricultural station in Princeton when it opened in 1925. One hundred years later, the UK Research and Education Center (UKREC), as part of the University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment (CAFE)and the Kentucky Agricultural Experiment Station, reflects on its many contributions to farmer success.

“Forage crops are an integral part of Kentucky agriculture, underpinning the success of beef, small ruminant and equine farms,” said Chad Lee, director of the Grain and Forage Center of Excellence stationed at UKREC. “Forage research and recommendations from state extension specialists and county agents across the state have helped farmers evaluate and implement new grazing systems to optimize forage utilization, soil improvement and animal performance.”

UKREC faculty and staff, alongside those at the Lexington campus, have conducted a century of extensive research on the production and management of pasture crops and cut forages. Equally important are the educational outreach programs that share newfound knowledge with the farming community. Many of those are held in Princeton to serve Western Kentucky.  

Seeding the way

Rotating forages such as clover and timothy with corn and wheat to improve yields and soil fertility were among the earliest trials at the Princeton substation. Lime and fertilization trials began in 1927 and continued through the mid-1950s.

Pasture experimentation also began within the first few years, showcasing the cooperative work with the university’s animal scientists. Beginning in 1929, average yearly gains of steers were recorded to determine recommendations for forage species, soil treatments and animal capacities.