01/24/2026
In 2025, I was honored to be named The Good Farmer US for my work leading Green Heffa Farms. That experience included a $10,000 first place award and an all expense paid trip to Davines' headquarters in Parma, Italy.
While there, I spent time with leading soil scientists, product formulators, and corporate leaders. I met Italian farmers, deepened my understanding of regenerative systems, and expanded my global network.
I was given a top tier tour of the city where Parmesan cheese originated. I ate copious amounts of gelato, had a 5 star facial, was wonderfully wined and dined. And I danced a lot.
This year, the program has grown even more, adding a second place $5,000 grant and a visit to the Rodale Institute in Pennsylvania. All rooted in regenerative values and global stewardship.
But what means the most to me is how I got there.
One of my closest friends, (IG), nominated me. That's us in the matching yellow shirts back in 2018. when Green Heffa Farms started. We go back even further than that as she was one of my first friends I made when I moved to North Carolina with just me and my kids in 2007.
In my book, I talk about the importance of building a powerful circle. The people who see your work when you are too busy doing it. The ones who speak your name in rooms you are not in. The ones who believe in your vision before others understand it.
My circle is stellar.
None of this happens alone.
I also share why farmers must optimize opportunities to leverage available resources, especially when building with nominal debt. These moments can change the trajectory of a farm.
Nominations for 2026 are now being accepted. Deadline has been extended. To be eligible, you must be a US farmer with 10 years or less of experience implementing regenerative practices.
If you are interested in nominating yourself or a great farmer you know, the link is below:
https://rodaleinstitute.org/good-farmer-award-us/
If you want to learn more about my experience, I have shared a few videos on YouTube. Here is one of them: https://youtu.be/X_jl1TT-6c8?si=Y4CYVVLE7FWUUw1u
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