Calhoun County’s young agricultural talent made a notable impact at the Alabama Farmers Federation Farm & Land Conference in Montgomery on August 3. The event featured several competitive categories where the region’s emerging farmers showcased their expertise.
Calhoun County was well-represented in the Young Farmers Discussion Meet, where Brooke Ginn, Wesley Gaddy, Coleman Lett, Caleb Ramsey, and Landan Reid competed among 23 participants. This contest simulates a committee environment, focusing on collaborative problem-solving for agricultural challenges. The Calhoun team demonstrated commendable skills and earned recognition for their efforts.
Joseph and Sabrina Dothard participated in the Excellence in Agriculture contest, which highlights the role of agriculture in participants’ lives and addresses key industry issues. The Dothards showcased their dedication and proposed solutions to significant hurdles within the sector.
The conference also recognized Whit and Amanda Lovelady from Talladega County as Alabama’s Outstanding Young Farm Family (OYFF). Managing a cattle and hay operation with their children Annagrace and John Luke, the Loveladys won a prize package valued over $70,000, including a new Ford truck, a John Deere Gator, and a year’s lease on a John Deere tractor.
Garrett and Robin Dixon from Lee County earned first runner-up for their row crop farming efforts, receiving a Kubota M series tractor. Drew and Lauren Wendland from Autauga County, who placed second runner-up, were awarded a custom chemical package from Corteva Agriscience.
The four finalists in the Discussion Meet included Will Meadows of Houston County, Erin Tolleson of Marshall County, Levi Noles of Randolph County, and Chase Hammock of Talladega County. These finalists will move on to the Federation’s annual meeting in December, where the winner will receive a four-wheeler from First South Farm Credit. All finalists were also given a custom Young Farmers of Alabama Yeti cooler.
The contest winners will go on to represent Alabama at the American Farm Bureau Federation’s national competition in San Antonio, Texas, in January 2025.
