The Kentucky Department of Agriculture has adopted the theme, “Kentucky Agriculture: Growing the Next Generation of Farmers,” for its 2015 Poster and Essay Contest.

The contest is open to students in grades K-12. Students may submit either a poster, an essay or a digital image based on the contest theme.

“Kentucky’s young people are our future farmers, consumers, and citizens,” Agriculture Commissioner James Comer said. “It’s important for them to know where their food comes from and understand the effort, skill, and care it takes to produce it. This contest helps raise awareness of agriculture’s important role in our everyday lives, and it may even inspire some participating students to join the next generation of farmers.”

Statewide poster and essay winners from each grade will be chosen, and an overall digital image winner will be selected. Winners will receive cash prizes to be presented in March at the Kentucky Agriculture Day Celebration, and their work will be displayed at the 2015 Kentucky State Fair.

Entries must be postmarked by Jan. 27, and a completed entry form must be taped or glued to the back of each entry. The name of the student’s teacher and school must also accompany each entry.

For more information or an entry form, visit this website, or contact Jordan L. Spalding at (502) 782-4125 or jordan.spalding@ky.gov.