FARM Program kicks off annual excellence awards

ARLINGTON, Va. — The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management Program is accepting nominations for its annual FARM Excellence Awards, recognizing U.S. dairy industry achievements in adopting and improving on-farm practices.

Awards are divided into four categories: Animal Care & Antibiotic Stewardship, Environmental Stewardship, Workforce Development, and FARM Evaluator of the Year.

“The FARM Program relies on farmers and FARM evaluators to advance the program’s mission of continuous improvement” said Dr. Meggan Hain, the chief veterinary officer for National Milk Producers Federation. “These awards honor participants who embody FARM Program values through their commitment to excellence.”

Nominations are open until Aug. 3 via the online form at nmpf.awardsplatform.com.

Nominated farms must have a current FARM Program evaluation in the relevant category and must be in good standing with the program. Evaluators nominated must be FARM Program certified in at least one program area as of June 1.

Nominees must be willing to have their names and images used in promotional materials should they receive an award.

Winners will receive travel and hotel accommodations for two individuals to attend the Dairy Joint Annual Meeting in Kissimmee in central Florida, where awards will be presented Oct. 19-21 during a special luncheon.