Princeton, Kentucky, October 17, 2025
News Summary
The University of Kentucky Research and Education Center (UKREC) in Princeton is marking its 100th anniversary, highlighting its significant contributions to agricultural innovations. Established in the mid-1920s, UKREC has evolved its focus from dairying to beef cattle management, leading to crucial advancements in livestock practices. The center’s centennial celebration is set for Thursday at 4 p.m. at Extension Farm Road, commemorating its impactful research, education, and community engagement in optimizing agricultural outcomes for farmers across the state.
Princeton, Kentucky: UK Research and Education Center Marks 100 Years of Agricultural Advancements
The University of Kentucky Research and Education Center (UKREC) in Caldwell County is celebrating its 100th anniversary this Thursday, an occasion that highlights its longstanding contributions to agricultural innovation and sustainability among farmers across Kentucky. The event is set to take place at 4 p.m. on Extension Farm Road in Princeton.
Since its founding in the mid-1920s, when local community members came together to acquire 400 acres for agricultural research, UKREC has been instrumental in enhancing production methods for both crops and livestock, with a firm emphasis on beef cattle. Early initiatives included the establishment of essential facilities such as a dairy barn and paddocks, which laid the groundwork for extensive agricultural studies.
Initially, the research at UKREC focused on dairying, gradually shifting towards beef cattle management as its main area of expertise. Notably, the first significant beef-centered trial commenced in 1928, showcasing the benefits of improved pastures for yearling steers. Findings from these early trials revealed that cattle raised on enhanced pastures experienced greater weight gains compared to those on unimproved lands.
Over the past decades, UKREC has continued to expand its research scope, leading to pivotal advancements in the beef cattle industry. A significant marker in its history occurred in 1961 when UKREC established a purebred Hereford breeding herd, which positioned it as a key contributor to improved beef genetics within Kentucky. Additionally, the center hosted Kentucky’s first performance-tested bull sale in 1962, marking a notable milestone that was celebrated for several decades.
The center’s research focus evolved further during the 1970s and 1980s, emphasizing the creation of a uniform and well-managed cattle herd that transformed the dynamics of beef research. Recent studies have explored preconditioning protocols for weaned calves, intended to enhance market returns while minimizing health issues.
UKREC remains at the forefront of technological adoption in livestock management, incorporating innovative solutions such as smart ear tags and genomic testing to improve cattle management practices. Its commitment extends beyond research; the center also actively engages in practical education and demonstrations for local producers, further emphasizing its role in agricultural development.
The research conducted at UKREC has had a profound effect on Kentucky’s $1 billion beef cattle industry, significantly shaping livestock production practices. Despite encountering challenges, including tornado damage in 2021, UKREC is poised for continued progress, focusing on modernizing facilities to enhance research capabilities and attract new talent.
As a model for integrating research with farmer partnerships and extension services, UKREC’s contributions over the past century have been vital in optimizing agricultural practices and improving livestock production systems in Kentucky.
Timeline of Key Events at UKREC
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1920s | Established with community-funded acquisition of 400 acres |
| 1928 | First beef-centered trial launched |
| 1961 | Purebred Hereford breeding herd established |
| 1962 | Kentucky’s first performance-tested bull sale held |
| 1970s-1980s | Focus on creating a uniform cattle herd |
| 2021 | Tornado damage sustained |
| 2023 | 100th anniversary celebrated |
FAQ
What is the University of Kentucky Research and Education Center (UKREC)?
UKREC is an agricultural research center located in Caldwell County, Kentucky, established to enhance farming practices, primarily focusing on crops and livestock management.
When was UKREC founded?
The UKREC was founded in the mid-1920s, specifically when local community members pooled resources to purchase land for agricultural research.
What kind of research does UKREC conduct?
UKREC primarily focuses on research related to crop production and livestock management, with specific emphasis on beef cattle over the years.
What significant advancements has UKREC made in agriculture?
UKREC has made important contributions to improving beef cattle genetics, cattle management practices, and overall agricultural productivity in Kentucky.
What events are planned for the 100th-anniversary celebration?
A celebration event is scheduled for Thursday at 4 p.m. at UKREC, commemorating its centennial contributions and achievements in agriculture.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
University of Kentucky Marks Milestone with Health Education Building
Additional Resources
- WTVQ: News Source
- Wikipedia: Agricultural Research
- Lane Report: 100 Years of UK Research
- Google Search: University of Kentucky Research and Education Center
- Lane Report: UK Research and Education Center Celebration
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Agriculture
- Morning Ag Clips: KY Soybean Board Announcement
- Google News: Kentucky Research and Education Center
- Kentucky.com: Education News
- Google Scholar: Agricultural Research Kentucky
- Kentucky.com: State News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Agronomy
- Farm Progress: UK Agricultural Research Updates
- Google Search: University of Kentucky Agriculture
- WTVQ: UK Farm Research Center Update
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