Virginia Farm Bureau Young Farmers were big winners once again at the 2017 American Farm Bureau Annual Convention this week.

Sarah Scyphers of Washington County won the Excellence in Agriculture Award. She will receive her choice of either a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado or 2017 GMC Sierra courtesy of Chevrolet, plus free registration to the FUSION Conference.

The Excellence in Agriculture Award recognizes young farmers and ranchers who do not derive the majority of their income from an agricultural operation, but who actively contribute and grow through their involvement in agriculture, their leadership ability and participation in Farm Bureau and other organizations.

Chris and Tricia Haskins of Pittsylvania County were runners-up the Achievement Award contest. They will receive a Case IH Farmall 50A tractor courtesy of Case IH, and $3,000 in cash and STIHL merchandise courtesy of STIHL.

The Achievement Award recognizes young farmers and ranchers who have excelled in their farming or ranching operations and exhibited superior leadership abilities. Participants are evaluated on a combination of their agricultural operation’s growth and financial progress, Farm Bureau leadership and leadership outside of Farm Bureau.

Jessica Jones, also of Pittsylvania County, was a runner-up in the Discussion Meet. She receive a Case IH Farmall 50A tractor, courtesy of Case IH, and $3,000 in cash and STIHL merchandise, courtesy of STIHL.

The Discussion Meet simulates a committee meeting in which active discussion and participation are expected. Participants are evaluated on their ability to exchange ideas and information on a predetermined topic.

Winners of the Young Farmers & Ranchers competitions were announced today at the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 2017 Annual Convention & IDEAg Trade Show. Young farmers and ranchers from around the country competed for the awards by demonstrating knowledge of and achievement in agriculture, as well as commitment to promoting the agriculture industry.