Owsley County Clerk’s Office Supports Young Ag Leaders

Kentucky farmers donated a record-breaking $931,201.81 to the Ag Tag Program for 2024. The total, the largest amount ever donated in a single year, tops last year’s total by nearly $200,000. This program is led by Agriculture Commissioner, Jonathan Shell and supported locally by Owsley County Clerk, Austin Bowling.

     “2024 was a tremendous year, one that wouldn’t have been possible without the wonderful support from our Kentucky farmers,” Commissioner Shell said. “Through the years, the Ag Tag Program has succeeded in providing much-needed funding for promoting agriculture and educating Kentucky’s youth on the importance of agriculture in our everyday lives. Your generosity will help ensure Kentucky agriculture has a bright future.”

     The voluntary donations are divided equally among Kentucky 4-H, Kentucky FFA, and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA). This year, each group will receive $310,400.60. Half of those funds are then distributed back to the local county of origin. This year the Owsley County FFA Chapter received $123.33.

     “The Ag Tag program has become so impactful for the Kentucky FFA Foundation and the more than 175 FFA Chapters across Kentucky,” said Sheldon McKinney, executive director of the Kentucky FFA Foundation. “Continuing to see growth over a decade is a testament to the impact these donations have in the lives of FFA members and our communities. Local FFA chapters can determine the greatest need for these funds, putting the decision making in the hands of the folks who know best. Kentucky FFA uses our funds for grants for schools, scholarships to travel to the National FFA Convention for those representing Kentucky on the National Stage, our exhibits at State Fair and so much more.” 

     Kentucky motorists who buy or renew farm vehicle license plates, or “ag tags,” may make a voluntary donation of up to $10 to the Ag Tag Fund. Local support from the County Clerk's office and generous farmers who decide to grow the future of Kentucky agriculture have been the reason this program thrives. 

      Farm license plate renewals are typically made through March and the Owsley County FFA Chapter asks for your support!