OUTSTANDING FARMERS 2025: Missouri ag leaders and award recipients to shine at annual salute to ag event

In partnership with the University of Missouri Extension, the Three Rivers College agriculture program will hold its third annual Salute to Ag dinner at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 7 at the Westwood Event Center. While the extension took a more active role in the past, TRC is taking the lead this year.

Agriculture Instructor Kathryn Clark explained the Salute to Ag committee hopes to make the event a regional celebration.

“We’re very appreciative of the support the agriculture industry shows the TRC agriculture program,” she added.

The dinner will help raise funds for the college’s ag clubs and programs for special trips and learning activities. The doors open at 5:30 p.m. for a social reception sponsored by Farm Credit Southeast Missouri. The meal will begin at 6 p.m. with a Q&A featuring representatives of the Missouri Soybean Council, Missouri Rice Council, a local cattle producer and state Sen. Jason Bean.

The panel will be moderated by Poplar Bluff native and lobbyist Brad Thielemier. Food for the dinner will be catered by Tasteful Creations.

Following the Q&A, event organizers will recognize the Century Farm families in attendance. Century Farm honorees are families who have kept a farm in operation for more than 100 years.

Next, awards will be presented to Logan Williamson from Bloomfield High School for Outstanding Ag Student, Katie Fennewald from Farm Bureau for Women in Ag, Darren Roper for Outstanding Ag Business: Yield Plus, Dallas Kluesner for Young Farmer and Abigail Price for Outstanding 4H Student.

“We’re very proud of what we do here, we’ve got to take the time to celebrate,” Clark affirmed.

She said there are still tables and sponsorships available for those wishing to attend. Information can be found on TRC’s Facebook page and website.