You have until Friday the 27th of September to get your entries and nominations for the National Arable and Grassland Awards. Now in its fourth year, the event celebrates the cream of the crop across crop growing, contracting and agronomy at a lavish event in front of industry professionals and peers.
It’s organised by Farm Contractor & Large Scale Farmer and Agronomist & Arable Farmer, in association with the National Association of Agricultural Contractors (NAAC) and Basis.
“NAGA is a great representation of our industry, that brings people together to network and celebrate the work that is put in year-round. It also promotes comradery, with each of the deserving finalists celebrating their peers,” explains Jill Hewitt, chief executive, NAAC.
There are thirteen categories available. Agronomist and Young Agronomist of the Year will look to the advisors, either independent or employed, who have tirelessly worked to help growers make tangible improvements on their farms.
The Farm Manager of the Year will celebrate the individuals who play a crucial, decision-making role within agricultural businesses. Not only will the performance of the farm be looked at, but also the entrant’s ability to meet targets and motivate staff.
Young Farmer of the Year looks to the next generation of agricultural professionals. Aged under 30, they will show enthusiasm for their businesses and innovative methods to drive the industry forward. Essential to any successful business, Contractor of the Year will have a proven track record of professionalism, as well as the adaptability to meet client demands.
“It was a really good night and amazing to receive recognition for what we do. Contractors get called a lot but it’s rarely to say congratulations, so this is a real pat on the back. It’s also been good for the staff; I couldn’t do this without them and you can see that it has given them a real boost as well,” says Martin Hays, the 2024 Contractor of the Year
Winners of the Grassland Manager of the Year showcase their performance based on key metrics, including yield, and the impact on final products such as meat or dairy. The Sustainable Farming Award will be given to a grower who has shown commitment to implementing sustainable practices across their business, including a focus on soil health and biodiversity, while also ensuring that there is a saleable crop delivered.
The Grower categories will celebrate farmers who have shown excellence in the management and yield of a specific crop. There are six categories based around crop growing:
- Cereal Grower of the Year
- Fruit Grower of the Year
- Oilseed Grower of the Year
- Potato Grower of the Year
- Protein Crop Grower of the Year
- Vegetable Grower of the Year
“As Managing Director of Clock House Farm, I speak on behalf of our whole team in saying how proud we are to win the NAGA Fruit Grower of the Year award. With our focus on sustainability and innovation, we constantly strive to produce the perfect-tasting berry to fulfil our mission of “growing a better tomorrow”. I would like to thank NAGA for recognising our hard work and contribution to the fruit industry,” says Oli Pascall, 2024 Fruit Grower of the Year.
Not only will the winners be celebrated at the awards, but each victor will also be put into consideration for the Overall Grower of the Year, looking beyond their performance with a single crop to find someone who exemplifies the very best our industry has to offer.
To enter the awards, or to nominate someone who you believe deserves to be recognised for their hard work, go to www.nationalarableandgrasslandawards.co.uk