Florida Farm Bureau's Young Farmers and Ranchers are active members between the ages of 18 and 35. There are several programs which recognize the importance of young farmers' and ranchers' contributions. Each year, active members in that age group have the opportunity to compete for the title of Outstanding Young Farmer and Rancher and participate in the state Discussion Meet. In addition, the Farm Bureau Excellence in Agriculture Award Program is designed as an opportunity for Young Farmers & Ranchers who do not derive the majority of their income from an owned agricultural operation to earn recognition. Participants are judged on their involvement in agriculture, leadership ability, involvement and participation in Farm Bureau and other organizations (i.e., civic, service and community).

Win a Dodge Ram Pickup!

Each year, all Young Farmer & Rancher members can vie for the title of Outstanding Young Farmer & Rancher. To compete, qualifying YF&Rs must submit an application by June 1. The judges visit the operations of the top three finalists. The Outstanding YF&R is announced at the Florida Farm Bureau Annual Meeting.

Florida's Outstanding YF&R receives clear title a Dodge Ram Quad Cab pickup! The outstanding YF&R and spouse receive an expense paid trip to the American Farm Bureau annual meeting, where they represent Florida in the national YF&R competition.

The national AFBF YF&R Achievement Award winner receives a Dodge Ram 3500 Quad Cab 4x4 SLT pickup with a 5.9L 24-valve Cummins diesel engine. The Grand Prize also includes an Arctic Cat(R) 454 4x4 All Terrain Vehicle.

The application deadline for this event is June 1. We have provided the application form in Word and RTF formats so you may save the form and enter the information on your computer for printing.

For more information on the Outstanding Young Farmer and Rancher program, contact Scott Christmas, 352-378-8100, Extension 1030.