2023 KY Beef Expo attracts cattle exhibitors from 15 states

FRANKFORT, KY – The 2023 Kentucky Farm Bureau Beef Expo finished with more than $780,000 in total sales in the 37th edition of the event at the Kentucky Exposition Center during the first weekend of March.

The 2023 Beef Expo’s main sponsors were Kentucky Farm Bureau and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture.

Total sales in 2023 were $781,410 a decrease of $147,590 compared to last year’s sales, but with only eight breeds selling this year compared to 11 breeds last year. The average sale was $2,427 per lot, with 324 lots auctioned this year, nearly 50 less than 2022, mainly due to the decrease in the number of breeds selling at this year’s show.

“Cattle is one of Kentucky’s top livestock and the Kentucky Farm Bureau Beef Expo is a place to showcase the fact that this state is still the largest beef cattle state east of the Mississippi River,” Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Dr. Ryan Quarles said. “Although the total sales were down, the overall show was outstanding. We’re an agricultural state and this show puts that center stage.”

Angus cattle brought an average of $3,232 per lot to lead all breeds. The sale topper was an $8,000 Hereford Female from Matheny Herefords Farm out of Mays Lick, Ky. The Beef Expo welcomed 15 states and eight breeds this year.

In the junior show, 378 cattle from 14 states passed through the show ring, including 190 from Kentucky. The judging contest attracted 115 participants.

The 2023 Beef Expo’s main sponsors were Kentucky Farm Bureau and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture.