Kentucky's poultry industry is expected to contribute roughly $990 million to the state's farm economy by the end of 2011, making up 19% of what University of Kentucky agriculture economists are calling a record year.
The annual forecast for the state is predicting combined crop and livestock receipts of $5.2 billion to $5.4 billion, up by as much as $1 billion from 2010's record $4.4 billion. An increased worldwide demand for grain, particularly in China, is driving the surge, according to economists. Corn is the second-largest contributor to the economy, bringing in an estimated $970 million to $980 million.
In 2012, farm receipts are expected to grow further, reaching an estimated $5.3 billion to $5.7 billion.