Back in 1925, the editors at Prairie Farmer believed farmers with outstanding production skills, a passion for community service, dedication to the agricultural industry and devotion to their families deserved recognition.

Do you know someone who possesses all of those qualities? Do you know someone who deserves the Master Farmer title? You may nominate parents, siblings, neighbors, friends, colleagues or fellow board members. You are welcome to nominate yourself, too. 

This grassroots program relies on your nominations, and here are four tips to help you with the process.

What judges want
Over the years, Prairie Farmer has judged a lot of nomination applications. Here’s what works best:

• Be thorough. In the sections asking about farm history and growth, more information is better than less. Share how the individual(s) got started, and show how their operation has progressed.

• Get letters. Ask for about 10 recommendation letters to support your nomination. These letters are incredibly helpful.

• Think small. When listing community and industry work, consider the nominee’s entire body of work. For spouses or siblings, list both individuals’ activities, noting who did what.

• Start early. It’s not a quick process to nominate a Master Farmer. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime award, and the application reflects an entire career.

What’s next?
You can find the 2018 application at PrairieFarmer.com/PrairieMasterFarmer. Download it, fill it out, and send it in, complete with letters of support, by Sept. 1. Email [email protected] for more information or to have an application sent to you.