Some of Alabama’s “best and brightest” young farmers were honored Aug. 4 by the Alabama Farmers Federation – despite restrictions that forced competitive events to be held via livestream.

“Farming didn’t stop for coronavirus, so we wanted to make sure the Young Farmers Division had an opportunity to continue developing future leaders and recognizing outstanding members,” said Alabama Farmers Federation Organization Department Director Mike Tidwell. “When the Alabama Farm & Land Expo was cancelled, we switched to a virtual format for the discussion meet and Excellence in Agriculture contests.”

One of the discussion meet participants was Franklin County’s own Caleb Beason. He and fellow competitors explored solutions to pressing agricultural issues during the contest.

Four discussion meet finalists were named from 10 contestants: Ali Cantrell of Montgomery County, Garrett Dixon of Lee County and Jerry Allen Newby and Brady Peek of Limestone County. 

The finalists will explore solutions to pressing agricultural issues during the final round of discussion meet at the Federation’s annual meeting in December. The winner will receive a four-wheeler from First South Farm Credit.

Emmanuel Bankston of Henry County took home first place in the Excellence in Agriculture contest. He will receive a zero-turn mower from Corteva Agriscience and a computer package from Valcom/CCS Wireless. Excellence in Agriculture first runner-up was Kayla Greer of Montgomery County, while Chase Hammock of Talladega County was second runner-up.