Next-Generation Farmers
At a White House roundtable with farmers, a rice producer’s candid message stole the spotlight. Meet Meryl Kennedy, the rice producer who had a powerful message for President Trump last week.
Outstanding producers from California, Kansas, Ohio, Oregon and Wisconsin will be recognized for excellence, leadership and innovation.
California grape grower Jennifer Thomson saw nearly every grape go unsold in 2024. But through grit and determination, she fought back — and this year, she found a home for her entire crop, defying odds and carrying her family’s legacy.
Lucas Bradshaw suffered serious head trauma following a collision while traveling to a JV baseball game. Today, he’s back on the farm helping his family bring in the harvest.
At just 10 years old, Jackson Laux has gone from riding with his grandpa to farming his own acres — while also becoming John Deere’s first-ever Chief Tractor Kid. And now he’s teaming up with NFL quarterback Brock Purdy and John Deere to make a difference.
Chemistry allows me to go beyond traditional ag that often is stuck in the past. My goal is to ensure the next student who loves chemistry sees a future in ag – not illegal drug trade.
“From Bright Leaf to Berkshires” is helping some farmers make that leap.
When you grow up on a farm, certain phrases become ingrained in your vocabulary, like “feed the calves” or “fix the fence” or “mow the grass,” but one phrase, in particular, is notably absent.
“The 1980s farm crisis didn’t just damage balance sheets. It’s changed the interest of being involved in agriculture. That gap is being realized today in board rooms, field offices, agronomy teams and more,” said Aaron Locker, Managing Director, Kincannon & Reed.