The oldest farmer recognition program in the United States has announced the four National Outstanding Young Farmers for 2014. Orion Samuelson (WGN Radio and “This Week in Agribusiness” host on RFD-TV) revealed the winners at the 58th annual National Outstanding Young Farmers Awards Congress held in Rapid City, S.D.
Those receiving the honor for 2014 are Christian and Julie Richard of Louisiana, Scott and Ali Ferry of Michigan, Brian and Jennifer Harbage of Ohio, and Patrick Zimmerer of Wyoming. They were selected from a group of 10 finalists for the award based on their progress in an agricultural career, extent of soil and water conservation practices, and contributions to the well-being of the community, state, and nation. National winners received a savings bond from corporate sponsor John Deere and the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C., during National Ag Week in 2015 to represent the NOYF program.
Christian and Julie Richard grow rice, soybeans, and crawfish near Kaplan, Louisiana. Scott and Ali Ferry operate a dairy near Litchfield, Mich. Brian and Jennifer Harbage raise corn, soybeans, wheat, and cattle near South Charleston, Ohio. Patrick Zimmerer of Huntley, Wyo., raises cattle, corn, hay, and operates a vineyard and winery.
The other finalists for the award were John and Angie Halverson of Arkansas, Jamie and Christiana Jones of Connecticut, Ben and Janelle Johnson of Iowa, Eric and Christy Seidenberger of Texas, Phillip and Michelle Hickman of Virginia, and Brian and Nicole Barlass of Wisconsin.
The NOYF program selected its first group of national winners in 1955. The program is sponsored by John Deere, administered by the Outstanding Farmers of America, and supported by the U.S. Jaycees and the National Association of County Agricultural Agents.
For more information or to nominate an agricultural producer for the award, visit www.ofafraternity.org or the Outstanding Farmers of America on Facebook.