Nominations will be considered in two categories, Farmer of the Year or Young Farmer of the Year (under 35 years of age as of October 1, 2026).  The top three selected finalists in each category, their immediate families, and their sponsor, will be invited to attend the celebration in Raleigh.  In addition to the recognition, the finalists in each category will win the following cash awards:

• First Place                       $2000

• Second Place                  $1500

• Third Place                      $1000

Each sponsoring agency is limited to submitting one nominee.  

Application deadline for county agencies is October 1, 2026.

The sponsoring agency for each of the six finalists will receive $250. Each of the finalists and their sponsors will be notified by October 23, 2026, of their selection and invitation to the celebration.

All nominations for Farmer of the Year and Young Farmer of the Year must be submitted by one of the following sponsoring agencies: County Extension Office, Soil & Water Office, or Local Forestry Service. Farmers are encouraged to contact their local county office for nomination consideration. Each sponsoring agency is limited to submitting one nominee. Application deadline for county agencies is October 1, 2026, and must be submitted through the NC Farmers Appreciation Day website application portal.

Only applications submitted by the sponsoring county agency are eligible for consideration. Previous First Place winners are considered not eligible.

Eligible applicants must complete the application fully, providing the following information. All applications must be submitted electronically. Application is available here.

1. Name of nominated Farmer

2. Business Name (if applicable)

3. Mailing Address

4. Phone number

5. Email address

6. Description of farming operation including, but not limited to:

• Commodities produced

• Supporting pictures of production operation

• Documentation of activities or support of excellence in the production of agriculture food and fiber products.

7. Letter of recommendation from the County Extension Office, Soil & Water District, or Local Forestry Service sponsoring the nominee.

8. Details of the applicant’s membership and activities in local, regional, state, or national organizations.

9. Letter from the applicant detailing qualifications for Farmer/Young Farmer of the Year.

10. Picture of the applicant with county sponsor representative(s) to be used for promotional purposes.

Questions regarding the application process can be directed to Dewitt Hardee at dhardee@ncgrange.com.