Sept. 15, 2015
Three finalists will compete for the 2015 Florida Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers’ Excellence in Agriculture Award this October.
Lindsey Bowen of Hendry/Glades County, Christian Spinosa of Polk County and Kevin Wright of Suwannee County will compete for the top statewide honor on Oct. 28 at the Florida Farm Bureau Annual Meeting in Ponte Vedra Beach.
“We are so proud of our young farmers and ranchers,” said FFBF President John Hoblick. “All three finalists are exceptional individuals and excellent role models for young agriculturists across the state.”
The three finalists were judged on their involvement in agriculture, leadership and participation in Farm Bureau and community service. They will present a 25-minute presentation before the state winner is selected. The winner will be announced at the President’s Awards Banquet on Oct. 28.
The Excellence in Agriculture competition is one of three programs that give Young Farmers and Ranchers recognition for their active involvement with Farm Bureau and agriculture. It is open to Farm Bureau members between the ages of 18 and 35 who do not derive the majority of their income from an owned farm operation.
The winner of the Excellence in Agriculture Award will receive an expense-paid trip to the American Farm Bureau’s 2016 Annual Convention in Orlando, where they will represent Florida in the national competition. They will also receive an ATV 4-wheeler courtesy of Southern Farm Bureau Life and a $500 cash award.
About the finalists
Lindsey Bowen is a microbiologist for a large farming operation. Bowen promotes agriculture in her community through her involvement on county and state agricultural boards and extensive volunteer service at local events and school classrooms.
Christian Spinosa is a 5th generation farmer who is a production manager for a citrus and beef cattle company. As one of the company’s youngest employees, he has been instrumental in introducing technology to help automate recordkeeping. Spinosa has worked with the Florida Department of Citrus to promote agriculture in his role as “Captain Citrus,” a superhero who appeals to young people. He is actively involved in agriculture at the local and state level.
Kevin Wright grew up in farming and was an active member of Future Farmers of America in high school. Wright is an agricultural team leader for the local water management district. He is actively involved in agricultural events at the local and state level. As past chair of the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers, he led discussions on agriculture’s role in improving water quality.
Florida Farm Bureau, the state’s largest general agricultural organization, represents more than 147,000 member-families. We serve to enhance farm enterprise and improve rural communities.