Seven outstanding young farmers will compete in the 71st Wisconsin Outstanding Young Farmer (OYF) Awards Weekend. The event will take place January 17-19, 2025, at the Holiday Inn Conference Center, 750 S. Central Ave, Marshfield, WI.
The 2025 finalists are:
- Lindsay and Eric Baneck, Helenville
- Matthew Holub, Boyd
- Patrick and Katie King, Edgar
- Kyle and Janessa Olson, Shiocton
- Sam and Brittany Olson, Chetek
- Adam and Marie Vanden Wymelenberg, De Pere
- Megan and Kyle Zeman, Luxemburg
These candidates were nominated by past OYF finalists, UW Extension County Ag Agents, or agricultural groups. Event sponsors are still welcome to support the overall program or a specific candidate.
The two-day event provides a platform for networking and learning. Candidates will discuss farm and family issues, participate in an Ag Forum and Workshop, and enjoy business tours on Saturday morning.
Saturday evening, the 2025 Wisconsin OYF winner will be announced during the finale banquet. Runners-up and the “Speak Up for Ag” winner, sponsored by Agri-View, will also be honored. The state winner will move on to the 2026 National OYF Awards Congress in February.
The OYF award evaluates candidates based on 50% agricultural career progress, 25% soil and water conservation efforts, and 25% community contributions. The program promotes urban-rural understanding, highlights farmers’ contributions, and builds awareness of their impact on America’s economy.
Wisconsin has a strong history of OYF success. Jake and Jennifer Hoewisch of Fremont, the 2024 state winners, are semifinalists for the 2025 National OYF event in Des Moines, IA, on February 6-9. Wisconsin has celebrated 24 national winners over the program’s 71 years.
On the national level, OYF is sponsored by John Deere and the Outstanding Farmers of America Fraternity, with support from the National Association of County Agricultural Agents.
