(Louisville, KY – October 18, 2021) – Kentucky Farm Bureau (KFB) named Jonathan and Jessica Gaskins of Adair County its “2021 Outstanding Young Farm Family.” This annual award recognizes an individual or couple under the age of 36 who demonstrates strong farm management skills, KFB and community involvement and consistent financial growth through their farm.

The Gaskins are first-generation dairy farmers, although Jonathan grew up on a beef cattle and grain crops farm. Jessica didn’t grow up on a farm, but she quickly found a passion for agriculture after her relationship with Jonathan began.

Jonathan and Jessica operate 1,722 acres of farmland and own nearly one-third of the property. They produced more than five million pounds of dairy last year, substantially increasing their production since they began farming in 2008. Their other major crops include corn silage, alfalfa hay and soybeans. In addition to their dairy and row crops, the Gaskins started a sweet corn enterprise as a way to begin a college fund for their children. They recently added watermelons to their vegetable enterprise as well.

The Gaskins hope to continue growing their successful farming operation in the years to come. “We wish to continue expanding our family farm with the hopes of someday milking 300 cows and operating in additional areas,” the Gaskins noted. “We would also like to invest in a sand saving system for our dairy.”

Jonathan and Jessica include their children in their farming operation, which is something they also hope to do even more of moving forward. “As our children grow, we want to find ways to capture their interest on the farm and help them grow their own enterprises. In recent years we have helped our daughter develop a sweet corn enterprise,” the couple said.

While the Gaskins family stays busy with their farm and family, they have also been involved in numerous organizations, including the FFA and Adair County 4-H. Additionally, they hope to get more involved in their Farm Bureau and in the agriculture community in the future.