Darwin Ediger, Meade, is the 2012 Kansas Crop Improvement Association Premier Seed Grower. He was honored by the association during its 2013 Kansas Seed and Crops Conference in Manhattan.

To qualify for the award, members must have several years of experience as a certified seed producer, their business must have certified seed as a major component, must exhibit quality consciousness in all production and sales practices, and must be involved in public service activities.

Darwin Ediger (left), a fifth generation farmer, grew up on the farm southeast of Meade, on land that has been in the family for over 100 years. During his more than 35 years of farming, he has managed a cow/calf operation and a custom harvest crew, before focusing on the production of certified seed.

Ediger, a fifth generation farmer, grew up on the farm southeast of Meade, on land that has been in the family for over 100 years. During his more than 35 years of farming, he has managed a cow/calf operation and a custom harvest crew, before focusing on the production of certified seed.

Ediger Farms has expanded into a full-scale wheat seed business, complete with cleaners, certified scales and a seed treater and has allowed his son, Tyler, a chance to continue the farming tradition.  Ediger has always been determined to provide value to his customers by supplying them with quality seed that they are confident to plant.

His commitment to certified seed and the KCIA membership has been displayed by serving on the board of directors, both as an elected member, as well as a Kansas Seed Industry Association representative, and in committee work, including research support.

Darwin and his wife, Roxanna, have three children, six grandsons and the first granddaughter on the way. Ediger indicated that a lot of his success has come from his love of the farm and he embraces the uncertainty and challenges that are part of the business. He views his role as a farmer to be a good steward of the land, so that he will have something to pass down to the next generation.

Since its inception in 1930, 159 Premier Seed Grower awards have been presented. Recipients are selected by ballot with previous year's honorees casting the votes. The award presentation is sponsored by the High Plains Journal.

For further information, call Kansas Crop Improvement Association at 785-532-6118, visit the website, or e-mail [email protected].