Eau Claire, WI (December 13, 2025) – Six exceptional young farmers have been selected as finalists for the 72nd Wisconsin Outstanding Young Farmer (OYF) Awards Weekend, taking place January 23–25, 2026, at the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott, 7100 Stone Ridge Drive, Weston, WI.
The 2026 Finalists Are:
· Perry & Cassandra Baeten, New Franken
· Tyler Baudhuin, Sturgeon Bay
· Luke & Ashley Lisowe, Malone
· Alissa & Travis Murray, Omro
· Derrick & Miranda Nelson, Eau Claire
· Ryan & Megan White, Reedsburg
The OYF candidates are nominated by past finalists, UW Extension County Ag Agents, or other agricultural organizations. Additional sponsorship opportunities remain available for the event or individual candidates.
Event Highlights:
· Networking and discussion on farm and family issues
· Ag Forum/Workshop sessions
· Local business tours on Saturday morning
· Finale banquet on Saturday evening announcing the 2026 Wisconsin OYF winner, runners-up, and the “Speak Up for Ag” award recipient, sponsored by Agri-View
The state winner will be nominated to represent Wisconsin at the National OYF Awards Congress in February 2027. The national event will honor the top 10 finalists from across the U.S.
About the OYF Program:
The OYF award is based on:
· 50% Progress in Agricultural Career
· 25% Soil and Water Conservation Practices
· 25% Contributions to Community, State, or Nation
Program goals include fostering urban-rural understanding, highlighting farmers’ contributions, and promoting awareness of agriculture’s impact on the economy.
The 2025 Wisconsin winners, Lindsey & Eric Baneck of Helenville, WI, are semifinalists for the 2026 National OYF competition, which will be held in Hershey, PA February 4-8, 2026. Wisconsin OYF, now in its 72nd year, has produced 24 national winners. Nationally, the program is sponsored by John Deere and the Outstanding Farmers of America Fraternity, with support from the National Association of County Agricultural Agents.
PDF of Release is attached.
