The 2025 Indiana Master Farmers are out there. Now, it is on you to find them!

Nominating someone for the next Master Farmer class is simple. However, you may encounter some questions along the way. Here is key information you need to know about the nomination process and the Master Farmer program.

Applications due on Feb. 17. All Master Farmer applications need to be completed and submitted by Monday, Feb. 17. Although the application is only two pages, give yourself time to gather details about the operation and get ahold of those close to the nominee to write six letters of support.

To request or submit an application form, reach out to [email protected]. Forms also can be mailed to Tom Bechman at 599 N. 100 W, Franklin, IN 46131.

Gather support. You will need to submit six letters of support with the application. These letters can come from salesmen, organization leaders, peers, family and friends. Be sure to share details about why you believe the nominee deserves the Master Farmer title. Do they always have a can-do attitude? How do they improve their soils? Do they put their friends and community first?

Also, make sure to include your relation to the nominee. The more personal you can make these letters, the better picture painted of the nominee for the judges.

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Include farm details. The form will ask for details such as acres and livestock numbers so the judges can understand the scope of the operation. However, this information will not be shared unless authorized by the awardee.

Decide whether to include spouse. Some Master Farmer awardees have spouses who also contribute significantly to the operation. It is up to you to decide if you will nominate the spouse alongside the nominee. Spouses will be in the pictures either way.

Keep the nomination secret? You can tell the nominee that you are nominating them, or you can keep it a secret. Consider the person you are nominating and whether they like surprises before you nominate them.

Nominate yourself. You can even fill out an application and gather letters of support for your own nomination.

Consider criteria. The judges are looking to assess farming accomplishments, care of natural resources, and leadership and community involvement. There is no set scorecard. This is why details and support are important factors in the application.

For Honorary Master Farmer candidates, the judges are looking for individuals who have made significant contributions to Indiana agriculture but who do not farm full time.

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Honorary nomination is simple. There is no form required for Honorary Master Farmer nominees, but you can choose to complete a Master Farmer form. Or you can write a simple letter instead. Outline the nominee’s accomplishments in Indiana agriculture and your support for them.

Panel in place. The judging panel for Master Farmers consists of the Purdue ag dean, a previous Master Farmer and an Extension specialist at Purdue. This panel consults with the Indiana Prairie Farmer staff to select the Honorary Master Farmer.

Questions? If you have any further questions about Master Farmer nominations or the program in general, reach out to [email protected].