MADISON – The finalists have been named for Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Young Farmer and Agriculturist Farming for the Future and Outstanding Agriculture Professional Awards.
Four finalists in each category will compete for top honors at the WFBF Young Farmer and Agriculturist (YFA) Conference in December.
The Farming for the Future Award recognizes YFA members who excel in their farm involvement, future goals, leadership abilities and participation in Farm Bureau and other civic and service organizations. Applicants must derive a majority of their income from on-farm production.
“These finalists represent the next generation of bold, business-minded farmers who are deeply committed to growing Wisconsin agriculture,” said WFBF President Brad Olson. “Their leadership and vision are helping shape the future of farming in our state.”
This year’s finalists include:
- Stephanie Abts, Oconto County
- Cosette Henthorne, Vernon County
- Austin Vandertie, Door County
- William Walleser, Vernon County
The Outstanding Agriculture Professional Award recognizes YFA members who excel in their agriculture involvement, leadership abilities and participation in Farm Bureau and other civic and service organizations. Applicants are agriculturists who derive a majority of their income from an off-farm job.
“These young professionals are leading with purpose and making a difference far beyond the farm gate,” said Olson. “Their passion and drive continue to strengthen the future of Wisconsin agriculture.”
The four finalists are:
- Amy Austin, Green County. Amy is an Ag & Business Relationship Manager at Lake Ridge Bank.
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Savannah Brown, Jackson County. Savannah is the Senior Plant Manager at Land O’ Lakes Animal Milk Solutions.
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Kelly Wilfert, Manitowoc County. Kelly is the Farm Law Outreach Specialist for UW-Madison Division of Extension.
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Madeline Woodward, Chippewa County. Madeline is a Territory Manager for Pioneer Seed.
Each finalist will conduct an interview with judges at the 2025 WFBF Annual Meeting and YFA Conference at Kalahari Resorts in Wisconsin Dells, December 5-7. The winner of each award will receive $1,500 courtesy of GROWMARK, Inc.; the opportunity to attend the 2026 American Farm Bureau Federation Young Farmers & Ranchers Leadership Conference in Portland, OR; will be eligible to participate in the 2027 YFA Washington, D.C. Fly-In; and be a guest of WFBF at the 2026 YFA Conference. The total value of the prize package is more than $5,000.
The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation co-sponsors these awards with GROWMARK Inc. and Rural Mutual Insurance Company. Information about all YFA contests can be found on wfbf.com.
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