In 2016, Wisconsin Agriculturist will again honor Wisconsin farmers who have demonstrated outstanding farm management skills while also taking active leadership roles in their communities.

The Master Agriculturist awards are made to honor not only the selected individuals, but also their families.

The 2015 Master Agriculturists are Jim Fitzgerald of Newton, Tom Kestell of Waldo, Jeff Sommers of Plainfield and Dan Vosberg of South Wayne.

Wisconsin Agriculturist is looking for the cream of the crop. This is a wonderful opportunity to recognize farmers who have excelled and can serve as an inspiration to others.

Letters of recommendation help strengthen the nomination and should be included.

Nomination forms are available online at www.wisconsinagriculturist.com. To have a nomination form mailed to you, call the Wisconsin Agriculturist editorial office at 920-346-2285 or send an email to [email protected]

Nominations must be postmarked by Dec. 4. Letters of recommendation help strengthen the nomination and should be included. Agronomists, county Extension agriculture agents, nutritionists, veterinarians, neighbors and clergy members are good sources to request to write a letter of recommendation.

Farmers previously nominated who haven't been named Master Agriculturists need a letter sent requesting their nomination be considered for 2016.

Winners will be selected by a committee of industry leaders and honored at a luncheon on March 30 at La Sure's Banquet Hall in Oshkosh during the Wisconsin Public Service Farm Show, March 29-31, in Oshkosh. Winners also will be featured in the March issue of Wisconsin Agriculturist. Past winners will be invited to attend the Master Agriculturist awards program and luncheon.

Take a few minutes and nominate somebody you believe should receive the award. Nomination forms and letters of recommendation should be returned to Wisconsin Agriculturist, P.O. Box 236, Brandon, WI 53919.