Call out for outstanding farmers

We’re searching for outstanding young farmers in Ontario and want your help.
We’re sure you know some successful farmers—people who contribute to the community, who seek new opportunities, and who generally are assets to Ontario’s agri-food industry.
Please tell us about them by completing a nomination form. We want you to nominate them for the title of the 2008 Ontario Outstanding Young Farmer (OYF).
This award will be presented at the regional conference to be held in March in London, Ont.
Anyone can nominate a young farmer/farm couple for the award—you can even nominate yourself. The eligibility requirements are simply:
•must be between the ages of 18 and 39;
•must operate a farm; and
•must derive a minimum of two-thirds of their income from farming.
The process is simple. Nominations are submitted to the Ontario OYF nomination committee (contact info below) by Dec. 31.
The committee reviews the nominations and contacts the top candidates.
Their decision is based upon items such as the nominees’ progress in their agricultural career; adoption of soil, water, and energy conservation practices; financial and management practices; and contribution to the well-being of the community, province, and nation.
The top candidates will be asked to participate in an interview and presentation process at the regional event to be held in March in London.
The winner will be announced at the final banquet.
The provincial winner then will compete in the national competition, which is designed to recognize young farmers that exemplify excellence in their profession.
The national competition for 2008 will be held in Calgary next December.
If you know an outstanding young farmer, please nominate them! It is time to recognize their outstanding contribution to the agricultural industry.
Simply fill in a nomination form and send by e-mail, fax, or regular mail to Karen Daynard, OOYF Co-ordinator, 6904 Paisley Rd. W., R.R. #7, Guelph, Ont., N1H 6J4.
The fax number is 1-519-836-1733 and the e-mail address is kdaynard@sympatico.ca
If you have questions about the nomination process, contact John and Eadie Steele at john.steele@sympatico.ca or 1-705-696-1491.
More information about OYF and the nomination form can be found at www.oyfcanada.com
< *c>Dates to remember
•Dec. 8—Wreath-making and Christmas card workshop, Clover Valley Farmers’ Market (call 276-0458 to register); and
•Dec. 10—Rainy River Soil & Crop annual meeting, 7 p.m., Emo Legion.