Wilson and Muir Bank in Leitchfield has been hosting ‘Farmer's Appreciation Week' every year for 22 years.

Members of the community are invited to enjoy hamburgers and drinks, courtesy of Wilson and Muir Bank's main branch.

The Cattlemen's Association is in charge of grilling hamburgers for the event, it always takes place the Wednesday before Thanksgiving every year.

President of the Cattlemen's Association, James Manion, talked about how thankful he was for the bank's recognition of farmers in the community.

“The bank wanted to do something to help the farmers,” said Manion. “We usually cook about 300 burgers on this day. There is always a huge turnout of Grayson County residents supporting us.”

Manion explained they have been outside cooking before in all kinds of weather conditions.

“We have grilled hamburgers in subzero weather and snow blowing on us,” replied Manion. “This is the first time it has rained though. That is why we moved under the porch to cook.”

Manion explained how hard it has been this past year on the farming community.

“Times have been tough for us and it is not over yet,” said Manion. “Diesel fuel has went through the roof.”

An early freeze during Easter cut the hay crop short, and later in the year cattle prices dropped due to a drought.

Fertilizer has also doubled in the past two years, and grocery prices have increased, due to increased cost transportation of goods to the market.

“It is not going to get any better for us,” explained Manion. “About half of the people in this county have an interest in farming. They do it as a hobby with just a few animals or are into it full time.”

The annual meeting for the Cattlemen's Association is December 3. They sponsor several 50/50 grants for the extension office, genetic handling, facility water and pasture, and hay and commodity storage.

Anyone interested in applying for funding can contact Jack Ewing at the Grayson County Extension Office at 259-3492.

Reporter

mmudd@gcnnewsgazette.com