Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmers Program recognizes young farmers who exemplify excellence in agriculture. Each year, one farming couple is selected from each of the seven Regional Events to attend the National Recognition Event in November, where a distinguished panel of judges will choose two of the honourees as Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmers. Regions include Alberta/Northwest Territories, British Columbia/Yukon, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Ontario, Quebec, and Atlantic.

Eligible nominees must be farm operators between 18 and 39 who derive a minimum of two-thirds of their income from their farm operations. At the National Event, the seven honourees are judged on specific criteria:

• Progress made during their farming career
• Maximum use of soil, water and energy conservation practices
• Crop and livestock production history
• Financial and management practices
• Contributions to the well-being of the community, province and nation

The deadline for nominations at the regional level in Alberta was April 1, 2025, but you can nominate your favourite farmer for 2026!

 The Alberta Regional Awards winner will be announced at 11:30am on July 29th during AgSmart at Olds College, sponsored by CFCW, followed by a banquet, dance, and awards that night! The winner will move on to the national event, November 26 - 30 in Toronto.