Florida Innovative Farmer Award

The goal of the Florida Innovative Farmer Award is to recognize farmers and ranchers who are leaders and innovators based on the following criteria:

• Success in making farming systems more profitable over the long term.
• Ability to use farming practices that enhance, rather than harm, natural resources.
• Leading - or participating in - activities that support viable communities, either through economic development or contribution to regional food systems.
• Effective outreach and/or education about sustainable agriculture ideas and practices to others, such as producers, community leaders, agricultural educators and the general public.

The quality of applications we received was outstanding, and we thank everyone for the time they took from their busy farm schedules to share their stories with us. We are pleased to award this year's Florida Innovative Farmer Awards to these very deserving farmers:

Bobbie Golden
Golden Acres Ranch
Monticello FL

Presented by:
Angela McKenzie-Jakes
FAMU
(left)

Linda Hart
Crazy Hart Ranch
Fellsmere FL

Presented by:
Christine Kelly-Begazo
Extension Agent
Indian River County
(right)

Lynn Steward
Mr. Citrus Organics and Vegetables
Arcadia FL

Presented by:
Robert Kluson
Extension Agent
Sarasota County
(right)