By Andi Anderson
Catherine Wolcott, a resident of Geauga County, emerged as the recipient of the Ohio Farm Bureau's Young Agricultural Professionals 2024 Outstanding Young Farmer accolade. The announcement, made during the YAP Winter Leadership Experience on January 27, celebrated Wolcott's commitment to excellence in the agricultural sector.
The competition, aimed at fortifying young farmers' business acumen and fostering marketing opportunities, recognized Wolcott for her outstanding achievements. Together with her husband, she owns and manages G.A.R. Horizons, a small farm specializing in pork, beef, and chicken production, complemented by an on-site farm store. Their operations also include crop farming spanning 110 acres throughout the county.
Wolcott's active engagement with the Geauga County Farm Bureau, spanning eight years, showcased her dedication as a board member and secretary. Simultaneously, she serves as a Geauga County 4-H advisor and contributes to various local organizations such as the Chardon Area Chamber of Commerce, Destination Geauga, and Chardon Square Association.
As the award recipient, Wolcott receives a $3,000 cash prize, complimentary registration for the 2025 YAP Winter Leadership Experience, and an expense-paid trip to the 2025 American Farm Bureau Annual Convention in San Antonio, where she will compete at the national level. Generously sponsored by Nationwide and Farm Credit Mid-America, these prizes acknowledge Wolcott's outstanding contributions to the agricultural community.
The Outstanding Young Farmer competition also recognized finalists Sheldon Miller of Ottawa County and Brad Wolford of Pickaway County, each receiving a softshell jacket and complimentary registration for the 2025 YAP Winter Leadership Experience.
The Ohio Farm Bureau's Young Agricultural Professionals program, catering to members aged 18-35, plays a pivotal role in leadership development and professional growth. By hosting events like the Winter Leadership Experience and contests such as Outstanding Young Farmer, the program continues to empower and recognize excellence in Ohio's agricultural sector.
Photo Credit: Ohio Farm Bureau
Categories: Ohio, General