Nominations Open for Indiana Certified Crop Adviser of the Year

By Andi Anderson

Indiana’s crop community is invited to celebrate excellence in agronomy as nominations open for the Indiana Certified Crop Adviser of the Year.

The award honors an adviser who provides superior service to farmers in four key areas: nutrient management, soil and water management, pest management, and overall crop production. The goal is simple—recognize professionals who help farmers raise better crops while protecting natural resources.

The 2025 winner will be recognized during the Indiana Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) Conference, December 9–10, in Indianapolis. The recipient will receive a $1,500 cash award and be advanced for consideration for the International CCA of the Year Award.

To encourage thoughtful nominations, the nominator—if not the winner’s employer—will receive $250 when their submission is selected.

Who should be nominated? Consider CCAs who regularly walk fields, tailor fertilizer plans, and refine irrigation or drainage to reduce runoff.

Think about advisers who solve pest problems responsibly, support on-farm trials, and teach growers how to use data to improve yields. Strong nominees combine technical skill, ethics, and clear communication with measurable results for farm businesses and the environment.

How to submit: Visit indianacca.indianacca.org/CCAoftheYear to review eligibility and complete the online form. You may also request details by emailing Mershon Tobin at info@indianacca.org.org. Helpful nominations include specific examples, such as improved nutrient use efficiency, reduced input costs, better soil health indicators, or successful integrated pest management plans. Letters from growers, agronomists, or conservation partners can strengthen an application.

Why it matters: Agriculture depends on trusted advisers who translate science into practical decisions. Recognizing outstanding CCAs encourages more learning, better stewardship, and stronger farm profitability across Indiana. By nominating a deserving adviser, you help highlight practices that protect soil and water, support resilient yields, and build consumer confidence in how food is grown.

Deadlines and reminders: Prepare materials early, confirm contact information, and obtain permission from your nominee. Share clear results and include dates, acres, and outcomes when possible.

Whether you are a farmer, educator, retailer, or conservation partner, your nomination can shine a light on the people who keep Indiana agriculture moving forward. Nominate today and celebrate agronomy leadership.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-fotokostic