Hard Work Pays Off: Apollo FFA Member Named Kentucky’s State Star Farmer

There's no question that farming is part of the rich agricultural heritage and history here in western Kentucky. For instance, if you drive out of the city limits of Owensboro and head east, west, or south, it won't take you long before you find yourself in the middle of farm country. Consequently, FFA (Future Farmers of America) programs are common at most middle and high schools in the region and one local FFA member just earned some incredible recognition.

The FFA Chapter at Apollo High School in Owensboro is one of the leading programs in the state. One of its members just received the highest possible honor that can be achieved by an individual member.

Last week, at the 97th State FFA Convention in Lexington, Colton Hardy was named the State Star Farmer. That award, which is highly competitive, is based on a variety of factors: the FFA member's work with their SAE (Supervised Agricultural Experience program), their involvement with Future Farmers of America, and their community service. To be considered for the honor, delegates have to apply, detail what they have achieved during their four years with FFA, and be interviewed by a panel of agricultural leaders and experts from across the Commonwealth.

Speaking of Colton's history with FFA, here's what he accomplished. He began his SAE in 2022 by growing a half acre of sweet corn and 1200 mums. The following year, he rented land and produced 27 acres of soybeans. Last year, Colton grew 3200 mums, two acres of sweet corn, 80 acres of soybeans, and 5 acres of tobacco. And, get this! He was able to secure his own loan to purchase his very own 80 acre farm. That's incredible.

Of course, farming is in Colton's blood.  He gets his passion for it honestly. His parents are Amanda and Clint Hardy. In addition to being a well-known local farmer, Clint is the Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Agent at the Daviess County Cooperative Extension Office.

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We also have to give a shout out to Colton's FFA advisors- Matt Johnson, Aaron Tucker, and Ashley Thomas.

For some perspective on what Colton has achieved, consider how many members Kentucky FFA has. There are currently over 25,000 middle and high school students enrolled in Agricultural Education courses. There are 195 FFA chapters across 115 Kentucky counties. If you're familiar with the Commonwealth of Kentucky, we have 120 counties total. So, FFA has a presence in virtually every one of them.

So, a huge congratulations to Colton Hardy- the Kentucky FFA's State Star Farmer! You'll have to pardon the pun, but he is truly home-grown talent.