MAXATAWNY TWP., Pa. — Beginner farmers have another opportunity to win $10,000 and a trip to Italy.
For the second year, Rodale Institute and Davines North America, a sustainable beauty brand, have opened applications for “The Good Farmer Award U.S.”
Launched Sunday, also marked as Farmer Awareness Day, the competition seeks farmers with less than 10 years of experience who exemplify sustainable farming practices while contributing to community and environmental health.
“At a time when farmers are facing unprecedented challenges, the work of the institute continues to demonstrate that regenerative organic agriculture offers real, science-backed solutions, for human and planetary health.”Jeff Tkach, CEO of Rodale Institute
“After more than 78 years of advancing this movement, we remain steadfast in our commitment to the health of our soil and to humanity,” said Jeff Tkach, CEO of Rodale Institute, in a news release.
“At a time when farmers are facing unprecedented challenges, the work of the institute continues to demonstrate that regenerative organic agriculture offers real, science-backed solutions, for human and planetary health.”
The winner, to be announced on Earth Day, will receive a $10,000 prize toward equipment or initiatives and an all-expenses-paid trip to the European Regenerative Organic Center, or EROC, in Parma, Italy, valued at $5,000.
Applications are open now through Jan. 16.
‘Celebrate and uplift farmers’
The award is focused on farmers who demonstrate a commitment to practices that enhance biodiversity, increase climate resilience and foster environmental stewardship.
It’s modeled after the Good Farmer Award in Italy. Administered through the Davines Group and Italy’s Foundation for Sustainable Development, it was the country’s first initiative to reward farmers who had launched projects inspired by regenerative organic farming and agroecology, according to Davines’ website.
And, it’s open only to new farmers – those with 10 years or less experience. These farmers are classified as beginner farmers by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
As part of the application process, farmers are asked to share their efforts in regenerative techniques, such as:
- Environmental Impact: Projects that support sustainable farming practices, restore ecosystems or reduce environmental footprints.
- Community Engagement: Initiatives that strengthen local economies and build community resilience through direct-to-consumer models, CSAs or local partnerships.
- Equipment and Infrastructure: Investments in tools and technology that promote farming efficiency, sustainability and adaptability.
Applicants must submit detailed proposals outlining how they plan to use the prize money across one or more categories, officials said, along with supporting documentation, like personal statement, photos of their farm and letters of recommendation.
"[The next generation of farmers and ranchers] give us hope for a more resilient and regenerative future.”Jeff Tkach, CEO of Rodale Institute
“Through our partnership with Davines, the Good Farmer Award allows us to celebrate and uplift farmers who embody the principles of regenerative organic farming — those who are not only cultivating healthier soil but also nurturing thriving communities and ecosystems,” Tkach said.
“This award is a testament to the courage and commitment of the next generation of farmers and ranchers who are stepping forward to lead with integrity and vision. They give us hope for a more resilient and regenerative future.”
Second place will receive a $5,000 prize to invest in equipment or initiates that enhance their agroecological practices, as well as an all-expenses-paid trip to Rodale Institute, valued at $2,500.
The third place award includes free access to Rodale Institute Education Resources, like online courses and workshops, and free registration at Rodale Institute's July field day.
In April, officials announced Clarenda “Farmer Cee” Stanley, founder and chief executive officer of Green Heffa Farms, an organic herb farm in North Carolina, as the winner of the first Good Farmer Award U.S.
“This award is for every farmer out here doing the work, honoring the land, and building something that’s bigger than a bottom line."Clarenda “Farmer Cee” Stanley, founder and chief executive officer of Green Heffa Farms
“Receiving The Good Farmer Award U.S. is a powerful affirmation of what we’ve been cultivating at Green Heffa Farms,” Stanley said.
“This award is for every farmer out here doing the work, honoring the land, and building something that’s bigger than a bottom line. I encourage farmers everywhere to apply.”
