Princeton, Kentucky, October 20, 2025
News Summary
The University of Kentucky Research and Education Center (UKREC) recently celebrated its 100th anniversary in Princeton, Kentucky. The event was attended by trustees, alumni, faculty, and local officials, who acknowledged UKREC’s significant contributions to agricultural practices locally and nationally. Since its establishment in 1925, the center has pioneered innovations like no-till farming and integrated pest management, impacting farming sustainability and practices. Despite challenges, including tornado damage, UKREC remains a vital resource for agricultural research and community support.
Princeton, Kentucky Celebrates 100 Years of Agricultural Innovation
The University of Kentucky Research and Education Center (UKREC) marked its 100th anniversary with a celebratory event in Princeton, Kentucky, attended by various stakeholders, including members of the University of Kentucky board of trustees, faculty, producers, alumni, and state officials. This landmark occasion not only honored the historical significance of UKREC but also its enduring impact on both local farming communities and agricultural practices worldwide.
UKREC was established in 1925 on 400 acres donated by local farmers and community leaders, a size that has since expanded to a total of 1,652 acres. The center’s founding stemmed from the early 1920s’ awareness of the need for improved farming techniques and scientific research in western Kentucky. The Kentucky General Assembly approved funding in 1924, which was contingent upon local citizens donating the necessary land, and this collaborative effort led to the establishment of the West Kentucky Sub-experiment Station on September 7, 1925.
Legacy and Contributions
The centennial celebration focused on UKREC’s legacy, highlighting milestones such as its contributions to innovations in agricultural practices, including no-till farming, double-crop systems, and integrated pest management. Research in areas like dark-fire tobacco, fruit production, beef cattle nutrition, and forage systems has further demonstrated UKREC’s commitment to advancing agriculture.
The dedication of the station in its initial year attracted more than 12,000 attendees, setting a record for the largest public event in the area. Over the decades, UKREC has been instrumental in transforming agricultural practices in Kentucky and beyond, preparing farmers to meet growing challenges and ensuring sustainability within the agricultural sector.
Current Status and Future Vision
Today, UKREC employs 65 full-time faculty and staff across nine operational units, including the UK Grain and Forage Center of Excellence, established in 2019. Despite facing setbacks from a severe tornado in 2021 that destroyed significant infrastructure, UKREC has persisted with more than 200 ongoing research projects and is focused on rebuilding cutting-edge facilities designed for modern agricultural demands. The completion of all new structures is expected by 2026.
Efforts to enhance the center have received legislative support, with an investment of $9 million from the SAFE Fund aimed at supporting UKREC’s rebuilding efforts. Local officials have recognized the essential role the center plays in serving Kentucky’s agricultural community, emphasizing the importance of research tailored to the needs of farmers.
Community Impact
Local farmers, such as Princeton-based Trevor Gilkey, have expressed their gratitude towards UKREC for its continuous support and innovative research aimed at improving local agricultural practices. Assistance from knowledgeable faculty members has empowered farmers to adopt new techniques, leading to more productive and sustainable farming operations.
As UKREC embarks on another century of agricultural research and community partnership, it stands on a foundation built over the past hundred years, facing new challenges while continuing to innovate and influence practices not only in Kentucky but around the globe.
FAQ
What is UKREC?
The University of Kentucky Research and Education Center (UKREC) is an agricultural research facility that focuses on advancing farming practices through scientific research and education.
When was UKREC established?
UKREC was established in 1925 after local farmers donated land for the purpose of agricultural research and education.
What types of research does UKREC conduct?
UKREC conducts research in various areas including no-till farming, integrated pest management, dark-fire tobacco, fruit production, and beef cattle nutrition.
How has UKREC adapted since the tornado in 2021?
Following the tornado, UKREC has continued to operate over 200 research projects and is focused on rebuilding with updated facilities to meet modern agricultural needs.
What investments have been made to support UKREC?
The Kentucky legislature has invested $9 million from the SAFE Fund to support the rebuilding and future plans of UKREC.
Key Features of UKREC
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1925 |
| Initial Size | 400 acres |
| Current Size | 1,652 acres |
| Faculty and Staff | 65 full-time members |
| Ongoing Research Projects | Over 200 |
| Tornado Impact | Infrastructure severely damaged in 2021 |
| Rebuilding Investment | $9 million from SAFE Fund |
| Projected Completion of New Structures | 2026 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Dawson Springs Progress
- Wikipedia: Agriculture in the United States
- Dawson Springs Progress
- Google Search: agricultural innovation
- Dawson Springs Progress
- Google Scholar: agricultural research
- Dawson Springs Progress
- Encyclopedia Britannica: agriculture
- Dawson Springs Progress
- Google News: University of Kentucky Research and Education Center
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