It’s that time of year again. The temperatures are rising outside and Kentuckians are lighting up their grills to cook beef. Governor Steve Beshear recognizes this American tradition by proclaiming May 2010 Beef Month in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

"I urge all Kentuckians to support Kentucky’s beef cattle industry, and to salute the cattle farmers for their contribution to Kentucky’s agricultural and rural economy during the month of May," said Governor Beshear. "The Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund has helped in making this industry top notch with more than $50 million going into projects related to the cattle industry in Kentucky over the last decade."

Beef is good – and good for Kentucky’s economy. From cattle farmers to feed manufacturers, equipment dealers and food marketers, thousands of people play a role in bringing beef from pasture to plate. In fact, beef farmers generated $574.4 million in cash receipts from the sale of cattle and calves in 2008. Kentucky has more than 2.3 million head of cattle on Kentucky farms. As one of the largest segments of American agriculture, the beef industry ranks third largest among agricultural commodities in Kentucky.

Beef plays a key role in a healthy diet. Emerging research continues to support findings that protein, like that enjoyed in lean beef, can help people maintain healthy weight, build muscle and gain the energy they need for active lives. Since there are 29 cuts of beef that meet government guidelines for lean, consumers have plenty of healthy beef options.

Visit www.kybeef.com for ways to celebrate beef month or join in a Beef Council promotional event. For more information on Kentucky’s Beef Industry contact Alison Smith with the Kentucky Beef Council at (859) 278-0899.