The Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) recognized four leaders from across the state for their contributions to the organization and agriculture at its annual Leadership, Education, Advocacy and Promotion (LEAP) Conference, held January 10-11 at Treasure Island Resort and Casino.

The Promotion & Education (P&E) Committee presented its Advocate of the Year Award to Kate McAndrews of Stearns County and the Golden Apple Award to Carrie Allord of Crow Wing County.

The Advocate of the Year Award recognizes someone who works to advocate for our profession of farming and ranching. McAndrews is committed to promoting the hard work of farmers in their community and specifically the industry they work in. Kate welcomed many different audiences to their farm and has been part of implementing several new promotion events into her county Farm Bureau over the past few years. Her impact has strengthened the importance of agriculture for everyone in her local community.

The Minnesota Farm Bureau Golden Apple Award recognizes someone who has gone above and beyond working with Agriculture in the Classroom programs and helping others grow in their understanding about farming and ranching. Allord built relationships with farmers, growers, and Farm Bureau members in her community to bring agriculture into her classes. Her students learn about all different aspects of agriculture through hands-on activities and interacting with farmers in the community.

Minnesota Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Committee presented the Outstanding Friend of Young Farmers & Ranchers award to Jonathan and Carolyn Olson of Lyon County and the Golden Pitchfork Award to Kevin Dahlman of Wright County.

The Outstanding Friend of Young Farmers & Ranchers goes to someone who has gone above the call of duty to assist and lead the future of the YF&R. The Olsons encourage younger members to become involved in their county board, mentor members as they attend Farmers to D.C. trips and are dedicated sponsors of the LEAP Program. The couple are kind and caring people who share their passion for agriculture through leadership, including Carolyn serving on the Minnesota Farm Bureau Board of Directors.

The Golden Pitchfork Award is presented to those who aren’t afraid of hard work and heavy lifting. Dahlman always answers the call and goes above and beyond to support the Young Farmers & Ranchers leadership contests. He has spent countless hours volunteering and encouraging members to take opportunities to better themselves and also serves as his county Farm Bureau President.

The annual LEAP Conference is designed to provide leadership and advocacy training for all MFBF members and is hosted by the P&E and YF&R Committees. Over 250 members attended this year’s conference, taking part in workshops, special sessions, and networking with fellow members from around the state.