The Tennessee Farmer of the Year program has been revamped.
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation program will honor the state’s rich agricultural history across all three of Tennessee’s Grand Divisions while recognizing the state’s top farmers.
“All across the state, everywhere you look, you can see Tennessee farms committed to excellence in agriculture,” said Justin Rhinehart, dean of UT Extension. “UT Extension is proud to support their efforts with educational resources that assist them as they make sound farm management decisions that support their families, communities, our environment and our state.”
From 1990-2024, UT Extension supported Tennessee farmers through a regional farmer-of-the-year competition.
In 2026, Tennessee Farm Bureau and UT Extension will recognize outstanding producers from East, Middle and West Tennessee, honoring their leadership, innovation and contributions to the state’s agricultural prominence. One exemplary producer will be named the Tennessee Farmer of the Year.
“We hope the rebranding and refocus of this program will elevate farmers across the Volunteer State in a new and exciting way,” said Eric Mayberry, president of the Tennessee Farm Bureau and a third-generation Humphreys County farmer. “As fewer folks are involved in this industry, the importance of recognizing what farmers do each and every day in providing food, fiber and fuel for the world becomes that much greater.”
Applications are open through March 1, 2026. From those applications, the Grand Division finalists will be chosen. Go to tnfarmbureau.org/tennessee-farmer-of-the-year for an application and more information
Through the sponsorship of Can-Am and Ford at BlueOval City, two finalists will each be awarded a cash prize of $5,000.
The Tennessee Farmer of the Year will receive a Can-Am Defender HD11 XT CAB (value of $30,000) and an all-expense-paid trip for two to the America Farm Bureau Convention in January 2027.
All finalists will be recognized and expected to attend the awards ceremony scheduled for June 13, 2026, in Franklin.
Applicants must be at least 21 years old and must claim a crop, livestock or production enterprise constituting a full-time farm operation as their primary source of income.
The Tennessee Farmer of the Year is expected to make a number appearances at various agricultural events.