Randal, BS ’99, agricultural economics, and Kristi Melvin, BS ’04, elementary education, were national winners at the 59th annual National Outstanding Young Farmers Awards Congress held Feb. 12-15 in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. 

The couple was among four national winners selected for an award based on progress in their agricultural career, extent of soil and water conservation practices and contributions to the well-being of the community, state and nation.

The Melvins operate a 1,800-acre farm near Buffalo, North Dakota. Randal serves on the Public Policy Action Team for the National Corn Growers Association, is the treasurer for the North Dakota Corn Public Action Committee and secretary of the North Dakota Corn Growers Association. Kristi keeps books, and helps with the farm’s marketing and office operations.

Matthew, BS ’98, animal and range sciences, and Patricia Erickson, BS ’99, veterinary technology, of Fertile, Minnesota, were among the 10 finalists for the award. The Ericksons are partners in Matthew’s family farm, which encompasses 2,730 acres and produces corn, soybeans, wheat, hay and cattle.

The purpose of the National Outstanding Young Farmers program is to bring about a greater interest in the farmer to foster better urban-rural relations through the understanding of the farmers’ endeavors, to develop a further appreciation for their contributions and achievements, and to inform the agribusiness community of the growing urban awareness of farmers’ importance and impact on America’s economy.

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