Agriculture is a major economic driver in Louisiana. To acknowledge the exceptional contributions of Louisiana farmers, the Louisiana Agri-News Network, Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation, LSU AgCenter and Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry will honor the 2011 Louisiana Farmer of the Year.
Nominations for the award are being accepted now through Dec. 10, 2010. Application forms can be obtained at any parish LSU AgCenter extension office or online at lsuagcenter.com/farmeroftheyear. Producers from all areas of agriculture are eligible to enter.
“Agriculture in Louisiana contributes significantly to the state’s economy,” says LSU AgCenter Chancellor Bill Richardson. “It provides not only food and fiber for our citizens, but for many, it is the place where they go to work. A successful agricultural industry is critical to the success of our economy.”
Three finalists will be recognized at White Oak Plantation in Baton Rouge on Feb. 25, 2011, with the winner receiving a cash award and other prizes.
This is the 14th year of presenting the Louisiana Farmer of the Year award. Last year’s winner was William Stutts, a soybean, cotton and wheat farmer from West Carroll Parish.
Craig Gautreaux