Small Farmer of the Year Application Requirements

The Small Farmer of the Year award is a special honor given to a North Carolina small farmer who is an inspiration to other small farmers. The Small Farmer of the Year award recognizes a small farmer who is  a/an: 

• Innovator in livestock and/or crop production and marketing.
• Leader, involved in contributing time and other resources to build their community.
• Steward of the environment who protects and enhances natural resources.
• Wise businessperson running a farm business in an entrepreneurial manner.

Applicant eligibility requirements:

The award is given to a North Carolina small farmer who meets the following eligibility criteria:

• Generates 50 percent or more of his or her gross income from farming.
• Earned an average (over the last three years) annual gross farm income of less than $250,000 .
• Operates a farm wherein the nominee or a family member provides general management for the business.
• Has not previously received the Small Farmer of the Year award.

Nomination requirements:

• An N.C. Cooperative Extension (NCCE) county-based employee must provide input on the nomination form. Nominations can come from an agricultural professional not employed by NCCE; however, it is important for an NCCE county-based employee to be aware that a nomination is being submitted and provide supporting signatures on the nomination form.

• The nominee must have a positive working relationship with the NCCE county center.
• The Small Farmer of the Year must work with the local planning committee and NCCE county center to plan a Small Farms Week educational event the following year.
• The nomination form must be signed by the nominator, nominee and NCCE county director.

All information provided will remain confidential and will not be returned to sender. If a nominee is chosen as the Small Farmer of the Year, select information may be used for educational and promotional purposes.