Nick and Sunny Cummings of Ohio were among three other couples that earned the distinction as National Outstanding Young Farmers during the 62nd annual National Outstanding Young Farmers Awards Congress in Sacramento, Calif. It is the oldest farmer recognition program in the U.S.

Other 2018 winners included Robby and Stephanie Bevis of Arkansas, Ian and Val Plagge of Iowa and Sam and Jenn Zimmermann of Wisconsin. They were selected from a group of 10 finalists for the award based on their progress in an agricultural career, extent of soil and water conservation practices, and contributions to the well-being of the community, state and nation.

Guest Master of Ceremonies Tom Steever, of Brownfield Ag News, announced the four national winners and interviewed them for upcoming episodes of “This Week in Agribusiness.”

Award winners received a savings bond from corporate sponsor John Deere, and the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C., during National Ag Week in 2019 to represent the NOYF program.

The Cummings raise feeder cattle, wheat, hay, soybeans, and corn in Fayette County.

The other finalists for the award were Nathan and Amy Engelhard of Michigan, Louie and Amanda Nigg of South Dakota, Cody and Liz Bingham of Idaho, William and Cala Tabb of Mississippi, Jesse and Taylor Vanderwend of Michigan, and Daniel and Kristy Williams of Georgia.

The NOYF program selected its first group of national winners in 1955. The program is sponsored by John Deere, administered by the Outstanding Farmers of America, and supported by the U.S. Jaycees, the National Association of Conservation Districts and the National Association of County Agricultural Agents.

For more information or to nominate an agricultural producer for the award, visit outstandingfarmers.com or the Outstanding Farmers of America Facebook page.

Source: National Outstanding Young Farmers Awards Congress