South Dakota Farm Bureau
Young Farmer & Rancher Committee

Mission Statement
The South Dakota Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee will
work to involve young farmers and ranchers in educational
programs that develop and improve leadership skills.

  The Young Farmer & Rancher (YF&R) program provides an opportunity for Farm Bureau members (ages 17-35) to meet other young farmer/ranchers at the county, state, and national level.  Participants in the YFR program have opportunities to develop leadership skills, compete in contests to win valuable prizes, be involved in their local communities, and develop long lasting friendships with people from across the state and country.

The programs below offer great advantages for self development along with some impressive prizes on the state and national level.
  

  
Discussion Meet -  .... group discussion meet participants have the opportunity to articulate their ideas and opinions on important issues affecting agriculture today and in the future.  Each year's contest offers the opportunity for each participant to research and prepare their views on four pre-selected questions for the contest.  Participants can compete at county, state and national levels.  The state level winner receives $500 cash award and eligibility to participate in the American Farm Bureau annual convention.  The winner at the national level is awarded a new Dodge truck.

SD Farm Bureau Application Form (PDF format) >>>
Application, Manual, Topics & Reference Materials >>>

  
Achievement Award ... recognizes young farmers and ranchers for their outstanding abilities in ag production, management and leadership.  Participants are evaluated on leadership,  creativity, achievement, and operating efficiency.  Winners at the state level receive a $500 cash award and trip to the American Farm Bureau national convention.  Winner at the national convention receives a new 4x4 Dodge truck.

SD Farm Bureau Application Form (PDF format) >>>
Information and Application for YF&R Achievement Award >>> 


  
Excellence in Agriculture Award ... brings recognition to young farmers and ranchers who do not derive a majority of their income from an owned agricultural operation.  The award recognizes their accomplishments and contribution to the agricultural industry, their community and their County Farm Bureau.  Selection is based on leadership, creativity and proven success.  State winners receive $500, a trip to the next American Farm Bureau convention, and a chance for the top prize on the national level ... a Dodge Ram 2500 pickup.

SD Farm Bureau Application Form (PDF format) >>>
Information and Application for YF&R Excellence in Agriculture Award >>>

 

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