The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (FARM) Program today announced that it has opened the nomination period for the 2024 FARM Excellence Awards. These prestigious awards spotlight participating farms and FARM Evaluators that demonstrate excellence in their engagement with the FARM Program.
Awards are divided into four categories: Animal Care & Antibiotic Stewardship, Environmental Stewardship, Workforce Development and FARM Evaluator of the Year.
“These awards serve as a thank you to farmers and Evaluators for their efforts in ensuring best management practices in on-farm social responsibility,” Emily Yeiser Stepp, executive director of the FARM Program, said. “Farmers and Evaluators are at the core of the FARM Program, and they lead by example with their dedication to providing high-quality milk to our nation.”
Nominations are accepted from fellow dairy farmers, members of the community, extensions, cooperative or processor staff, veterinarians, themselves or others. Nominations are open until 11:59 p.m. PDT Aug. 1 through the online form on the FARM website.
Nominated farms must have a current FARM Program evaluation in the respective category area and must be in good standing with the program. Evaluators nominated must be FARM Program certified in any program areas as of June 1, 2024. Nominees must be willing to have their names and images used in promotional materials if they receive the award for their category. The awards are judged by a committee of FARM Farmer Advisory Council members and other subject matter experts. Winners in each category will receive a hotel room and travel for two individuals to attend the Dairy Joint Annual Meeting Oct. 20-23 in Phoenix, AZ, where awards will be presented during a special luncheon. Visit the FARM Excellence Awards page for more details.
