Winners of the Young Farmers & Ranchers Achievement Award, Discussion Meet and Excellence in Agriculture competitions were announced at the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 2018 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.

Justin and Lori McClellan of Smyth County were the runners-up in the Achievement Award contest. They will receive a Case IH Farmall 50A tractor courtesy of Case IH. Russell and Amelia Kent of Louisiana took top honors.

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.

Amy Gail Fannon of Lee County placed in the Sweet 16 of the Discussion Meet. 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.

Martha Smith of Colorado won the Discussion Meet, but she has roots in Rockbridge County where her dad, Mack, is county Farm Bureau President. She is the winner of a new Ford truck, courtesy of Farm Bureau Financial Services. She will also receive paid registration to the AFBF YF&R Leadership Conference in Reno, Nevada, Feb. 16-19.

Casey and Stacey Phillips of Montgomery County were runners-up in the Excellence in Agriculture contest. They will receive a Case IH Farmall 50A tractor courtesy of Case IH.Greg and Rose Hartschuh of Ohio won the Excellence in Agriculture Award.

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.

Congratulations to all!