Louisiana farm equipment handlers get chance at being honored

A farmer in Louisiana may be honored through an award sponsored by a collection of groups.
A farmer in Louisiana may be honored through an award sponsored by a collection of groups.
Farm equipment users in Louisiana may be honored next year, provided they are nominated for an award being offered in the state.

The 2011 Louisiana Farmer of the Year will be selected on February 25, 2011, during a ceremony at the White Oak Plantation in Baton Rouge. There, three finalists will be recognized, and the winner will receive cash and other prizes.

People have until December 10, 2010, to nominate a person for the award, which is sponsored by the Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation, the Louisiana Agri-News Network, the state Department of Agriculture and Forestry, and the Louisiana State University Ag Center.

LSU AgCenter chancellor Bill Richardson said agriculture is a significant contributor to Louisiana's economy.

"It provides not only food and fiber for our citizens, but for many, it is the place where they go to work," Richardson said. "A successful agricultural industry is critical to the success of our economy."

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced in September it would induct five new members to its Hall of Heroes, which was established in 2000 to honor those who have made great contributions to the industry.