The national search for farming and ranching ambassadors is underway, but with an upcoming deadline of Sept. 8, time is running out to submit an entry.  Through “Faces of Farming and Ranching”, U.S. Farmers and Ranchers Alliance (USFRA) aims to identify a handful of standout farmers and ranchers who are proud of what they do, eager to share their stories of continuous improvement and help show the dedication, passion and care that goes into the food on our grocery store shelves, market stalls and eventually on our dinner tables.

“We’ve received strong entries from around the country, but we know there are more out there,” said Bob Stallman, chairman of USFRA and president of the American Farm Bureau Federation. “There are so many farmers and ranchers who do amazing things to grow and raise food and who truly exemplifies U.S. agriculture. We strongly encourage them to apply. This is one way we can add a true American farmer and rancher voice to the portrayal of our community in mainstream media and pop culture, and contribute to an accurate perception in the minds of many consumers.”

USFRA continues to look for entries from farmers and ranchers who raise a variety of foods differently, at differing scale and in all areas of the country.

Entries will be accepted through September 8, 2012 at www.FoodDialogues.com. Finalists will be announced at the November 2012 Food Dialogues event in New York City. This national announcement will open a public online voting period where visitors can vote for their favorite candidates. Those votes will be factored into the decision to determine “The Faces of Farming and Ranching.”

Winners will be announced in early January 2013 based on votes and the recommendation of a panel of judges. The public will get to know the USFRA “Faces” winners through national media interviews, advertising and public appearances.

Entrants are required to submit an online application and include a home video of less than three minutes that describes themselves and their farm or ranch.