Who is that farmer in your life who goes the extra mile? Do they manage their farm well while also giving back to the community? Are they always finding ways to improve soil health on their farms? They probably wouldn’t give themselves all that credit, would they?

Now is the time to nominate that role model for the Master Farmer award. This award recognizes those farmers who go above and beyond in giving back to their land and community, all while continuing to run a successful farming operation.

These folks aren’t going to nominate themselves for this prestigious reward. Their nomination relies on those around them noticing all that they have done and taking the time to fill out a form on their behalf.

How to nominate

Give yourself ample time to complete the form, as you will need to gather information about the farm and up to six letters of support. These letters can come from salesmen, organization leaders, peers, family or friends. The best letters share details about why you believe the individual deserves the Master Farmer title.

Once you have gathered letters of support and completed the nomination form, you will send it to Allison Lynch at [email protected]. Forms and letters also can be mailed to Tom Bechman at 599 N. 100 W, Franklin, IN 46131. Be sure to submit all materials together as one complete package. Nominations are due Feb. 17.

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Honorary Master Farmer nominations look a little different. For those, simply write a letter sharing more about the nominee’s accomplishments and contributions to Indiana agriculture. However, you can fill out a Master Farmer form if you would like.

Judging process

Master Farmer candidates will be judged by a panel consisting of the Purdue College of Agriculture dean, a previous Master Farmer and an Extension specialist at Purdue. This panel then consults with the Indiana Prairie Farmer staff to select the Honorary Master Farmer.

The judges will be assessing farming accomplishments, care of natural resources, and leadership and community involvement. Consider these three areas when filling out the nomination form and gathering letters of support.

If you have any questions, reach out to Allison Lynch at [email protected]. Happy nominating!