Here’s your chance to influence what you read when 2024 Master Farmer stories appear in the July issue of Indiana Prairie Farmer. There is still time to nominate someone for the award. However, the clock is ticking. Nominations are due Feb. 16.

Don’t know where to start? Answers to the 10 most asked questions about the Master Farmer program should help:

1. How do you nominate someone to be a Master Farmer? Obtain a nomination form. It’s only two pages, but it will take help from someone who knows details about the operation. Ask six people to write letters of support. Submit the nomination by Feb. 16. To get a form or submit a completed nomination, email [email protected], or write to: 599 N., 100 W., Franklin, IN 46131.

2. Who sponsors the Master Farmer award in Indiana? It is sponsored by Indiana Prairie Farmer and the Purdue College of Agriculture.

3. How many people are recognized each year? Typically, four farmers are recognized. The number is not fixed and varies from three to five. Plus, one to two Honorary Master Farmers may be recognized.

4. Do you tell the person you are nominating them? That’s your choice. Many people like to make it a surprise, but others tell the person in advance. You can even nominate yourself.

5. Who decides to recognize both farmer and spouse? Again, that’s your choice. Some spouses are excited to be honored while others prefer leaving the limelight to their spouse. Either way, spouses will appear in pictures.

6. How do you know about previous winners? Your Extension staff might know. Otherwise, email or write for a list of past winners.

7. Who judges nomination applications? A panel of three — including the Purdue ag dean, a previous Master Farmer and a professor at Purdue — are the judges.

8. What criteria do judges evaluate? Judges consider farming accomplishments, care of natural resources, and leadership and community involvement. There is no set scorecard.

9. Is sensitive information shared? No. The form asks for acres and livestock numbers so judges can assess scope. However, unless authorized by the awardee, this information is not shared. Lenders are not contacted unless there is concern about financial stability.

10. How are Honorary Master Farmers selected? This award is reserved for someone making outstanding contributions to Indiana agriculture who does not earn their primary living farming. Nominations are not required but are accepted. You can nominate someone with a simple letter. This selection is made by the Indiana Prairie Farmer staff in consultation with the judging committee.