Now is the time to be thinking about candidates for next year's Master Farmer/Master Farm Homemaker Awards.

The Master Farmer program, jointly sponsored by Kansas State University and Kansas Farmer, honors farm families for their long-term farm leadership, including participation in Kansas State University extension programs.

Up to six farm families are selected annually, one from each of the four Extension areas and two from the state as a whole.

There is a web version of the application available on the K-State Research and Extension Intranet.

A minimum age is no longer indicated, however, the criteria for selection place special emphasis on long-term family accomplishments.

Any previous year's nomination can be resubmitted if the county executive board reaffirms it.

This year, K-State is asking that local extension offices submit several pictures of the farming operation being nominated taken during the summer and fall since pictures taken after the selection are all in the winter months.

The Recognition Banquet for the Master Farmer/Master Farm Homemaker Class of 2010 is set for Friday, March 18, 2011 at the Courtyard by Marriott in Junction City.