Consider nominating a farmer for the Farmer of the Year or Young Farmer of the Year for the state’s inaugural Farmer Appreciation Day on Nov. 14. The deadline for nominations to be received is Oct. 1.
- On Nov. 14, the state will celebrate its first Farmer Appreciation Day – something I am excited about.
- I’ve said it before, but I think we should celebrate the hard work of our farmers and farm families EVERY DAY!
- Not only is agriculture our state’s No. 1 industry, but North Carolina farmers can grow just about any crop and they do.
- Farmers have really diversified their operations and our state currently ranks in the Top 10 in the nation in the production of 20 different commodities.
- We owe our farmers a huge debt of gratitude for keeping us fed and for producing fiber for clothes and fuels.
- The N.C. Grange is spearheading this celebration with the support of our department, the N.C. Farm Bureau and commodity groups across the state.
- The idea for a Farmer Appreciation Day was first brought up by the Grantham Grange and drew the support of the whole Grange.
- The Grange took the idea to the General Assembly where Rep. Jimmy Dixon stepped in to craft a bill that was approved and that led to this special day.
- As part of this celebration, the Grange is seeking nominations for Farmer of the Year and Young Farmer of the Year.
- The best part for the winners is the cash prizes being awarded. Awards are $5,000 for first place, $3,000 for second place and $2,000 for third place.
- The deadline to apply is Oct. 1 and I would encourage you to nominate someone who you feel is deserving of this honor.
- You can find information on nominating a farmer and the nomination form at www.ncfarmerappreciation.com.
- I look forward to recognizing the winning farmers in November along with all of the farmers in this state who help feed and clothe us.
- Remember, we can all do our part to support farmers by buying local, looking for the Got to Be NC logo on manufactured food products and eating at restaurants that feature North Carolina foods on the menu.