About The WAVE AG Initiative
Collaborative Strength in Western Kentucky Agriculture
WAVE AG represents a strategic alliance formed by four river counties—Ballard, Carlisle, Fulton and Hickman —driven to pool local assets and elevate agricultural traditions through partnership and innovation.
Our mission: to position agriculture as both the foundation and future of our economy. Through regional Ag Day celebrations and strategic partnerships, WAVE AG fosters economic development across county lines.
Why Our Region Thrives In Agriculture
Unmatched Agricultural Capacity
-
- Over 83% of the four-county land is dedicated to crop production, including soybeans, corn, livestock, and poultry.
- Combined, the region yields nearly $360 million in agricultural goods annually across approximately 960 farms—a robust impact fueling local economies.
Strategic Location & Infrastructure
-
- Positioned at the confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, our region offers exceptional logistic advantages for regional and international trade.
- Proximity to Memphis, St. Louis, Nashville, and Evansville amplifies our accessibility to vast markets.
Technology and Innovation Partnerships
-
- Our collaboration with AgLaunch empowers farmers to engage in agtech innovation—hosting trials, gathering data, and accelerating agricultural startups regionally.
Community and Educational Resources
-
- Deep roots in small-town culture and community spirit define our region.
- High-quality education, from K–12 to post-secondary, is supported by institutions like Murray State University and WKCTC—strengthening future-ready agricultural skills.
Things To Know
WAVE AG Highlights
WAVE River Counties Ag Day
An annual event rotating through our four counties—bringing farmers, businesses, and communities together:
- Each year, “Let’s Grow With It” themes unite local stakeholders to celebrate agriculture across the region.
- Attendance has reached 150 – 350+ community members, featuring keynote speakers like the Agriculture Commissioner, live demonstrations (e.g., tractor rollover simulator), awards, and vendor exhibits.
WAVE Ag Young Farmers Association
The WAVE Ag Young Farmers Association, supported through WAVE Ag, is a network designed to inspire, equip, and connect the next generation of agricultural leaders in our region. Just as WAVE unites Ballard, Carlisle, Fulton, and Hickman Counties to strengthen the local economy, the Young Farmers Association focuses on sustaining our strong agricultural tradition by investing in young people who are passionate about farming, agribusiness, and rural leadership.
Through hands-on training, leadership development, and community engagement, the association provides opportunities for students and young producers to learn from mentors, build business and technical skills, and connect with local ag businesses. By advocating for the needs of young farmers and highlighting the importance of agriculture to our economy, the Young Farmers Association ensures that our region’s most vital industry continues to thrive for generations to come.
AgLaunch Innovation
WAVE AG serves as AgLaunch’s “boots on the ground,” bringing farmers into precision agriculture, drone tech, data management, and startup mentorship while empowering them to conduct field trials and invest in emerging ag tech ventures.
Things To Do
Upcoming Events
Your Role In Our Agricultural Future
For Farmers & Producers
- Share your stories. Host or join innovative trials. Shape tomorrow’s ag ecosystem.
For Entrepreneurs & Innovators
- Collaborate through AgLaunch to pilot groundbreaking agtech solutions in real-world farm settings.
For Community Leaders & Businesses
- Sponsor, volunteer, or exhibit at Ag Day. Build networks that bridge farms and futures.
For Visitors & Supporters
- Come see the heart of agriculture at Ag Day, and follow opportunities to promote and engage with our region.
