By Scout Nelson
competitors in the American Farm Bureau Federation Young Farmers and Ranchers Excellence in Agriculture program. The award honors young leaders who show strong involvement in agriculture, community service, and Farm Bureau activities.
The national contest brings together more than twenty participants from across the United States. Over two days, participants share their experiences, leadership work, and agriculture knowledge. Judges review involvement in farming, leadership roles, and participation in community and Farm Bureau programs.
The recognized leader balances professional work with service in local and state agriculture programs. She supports farmers through roles connected to federal farm programs and dairy herd improvement services. Her work helps farms understand safety-net programs and improve livestock production through data collection and analysis.
At the county level, she plays a major role in improving agriculture education and community outreach. She leads a popular county fair agriculture exhibit that welcomes thousands of visitors each year. The exhibit includes hands-on stations where families learn about farm life through interactive displays such as milking practice stations and chick hatching exhibits. She also helps create agriculture education programs for classrooms, organizes farm safety demonstrations, and supports local events that connect farm families with the public.
Her advocacy work reaches beyond the local level. She takes part in national agriculture discussions and meets with state and federal leaders to share the needs and concerns of farm families. These efforts help bring farm voices into important policy conversations and encourage lawmakers to better understand agriculture.
Beyond her Farm Bureau work, she remains active in community and faith-based programs. She supports local ministries, organizes community events, and shares stories that highlight rural life and agriculture traditions.
The Excellence in Agriculture Award recognizes young leaders who contribute to agriculture while growing their leadership skills. It focuses on education, advocacy, and community involvement. This national recognition highlights the importance of young leaders who support agriculture, connect communities, and help guide the future of farming across the country.
Photo Credit: minnesota-farm-bureau
Categories: Minnesota, Education, General