KY Corn Growers Engage Leaders at Commodity Classic 2026

By Blake Jackson

Leaders and staff from the Kentucky Corn Growers Association (KY Corn) attended the Commodity Classic 2026, taking advantage of the event’s opportunities to connect with federal officials, agricultural leaders, and industry partners.

The annual gathering provides a platform for corn advocates to discuss policies, market opportunities, and issues affecting corn farmers across the United States.

During the event, KY Corn representatives participated in the Southern States Caucus, where growers and industry leaders reviewed policy priorities and discussed resolutions for the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA).

The group also heard from candidates seeking positions on the NCGA board and spoke directly with officials from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Government panelists from the Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Risk Management Agency outlined several upcoming initiatives. These included plans to modernize acreage reporting and paperwork processes through the Farm Service Agency, as well as the launch of a $700 million regenerative agriculture pilot program. Officials also discussed future stakeholder meetings focused on conservation practice standards.

KY Corn leaders emphasized the importance of bringing the perspective of Kentucky farmers into national discussions. Association president of the Kentucky Corn Growers Association Micah Lester and vice president Scott Ebelhar participated in voting on policy resolutions that will help guide NCGA’s future priorities.

Advocacy efforts were also a key focus. Members contacted lawmakers to support year-round sales of E15 fuel, a measure strongly backed by corn producers. Meanwhile, executive director Laura Knoth raised a specific grower concern with Steven Peterson of the Farm Service Agency.

Attendees also engaged with Richard Fordyce, USDA Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation. Additionally, KY Corn representative Josh Lancaster interviewed a John Deere representative about the company’s development of an E98 tractor powered entirely by ethanol, a technology that could significantly increase demand for U.S. corn.

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