Daily Pioneer News

PLATTEVILLE- Jamie and Angela Larse, alumni of the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, recently received the Outstanding Young Farmer award by the National Jaycees United States Junior Chamber.

The Larses won the state Outstanding Young Farmer award last year and went on to the national competition hosted by the National Outstanding Young Farmers Congress in Phoenix, Ariz. As part of the award, the couple was inducted into the Outstanding Young Farmer fraternity. The award is based on 50 percent progress in an agricultural career, 25 percent progress in soil and water conservation practices and 25 percent contributions to the well being of the community, state or nation. The Outstanding Young Farmer program strives to foster a greater interest in the farmer and improved urban-rural relations through the understanding of the farmers' problems. It also seeks to develop an appreciation for farmers' contributions and achievements and to promote the growing awareness of farmers' importance and impact on the American economy to the agribusiness community. The award is sponsored by Deere and Company and supported by the Outstanding Young Farmers of America Fraternity and the National Association of County Agriculture Agents.

"The award was a surprise, but we're very proud. Farming is something we chose to do and what we enjoy. We've done a lot of expansions and improvements and had great support from our family," said Angela.

The Larses own a 450-cow dairy farm where they grow alfalfa and corn for their herd on 1,500 acres of land. They practice strong soil conversation by taking soil samples every three years and regularly rotating their crops. They also raise all their own replacement heifer cattle. The Larses have reached out to young agriculturalists by opening up their farm to local FFA chapters and hosting a group of agribusiness students for a work-study program. In June, their farm will host a dairy breakfast.

"We like to keep our farm open for people who want to learn more about agriculture," stated Angela.

The Larses started farming with Angela's father upon graduation from UWP. Angela grew up on a farm, so production agriculture was an area she felt comfortable in and enjoyed. Jamie had worked on a farm throughout high school and worked at Pioneer Farm during his college career at UWP.

During their time at UWP, the Larses were involved in the School of Agriculture. In addition to his Pioneer Farm job, Jamie also was a member of Farmhouse fraternity and Dairy Club. Angela participated in Dairy Club, Collegiate FFA and Block and Bridal.

"We enjoyed UWP because we were so close to our classmates in the School of Agriculture. We made lifetime friends," said Angela.

Jamie and Angela both graduated with degrees in animal science. Jamie graduate in 1996 and Angela graduated in 1995.

Contact: Jodi McDermott, coordinator of recruitment, retention, and marketing, School of Agriculture, (608) 342-1366,mcdermoj@uwplatt.edu Prepared by: Krystle Kurdi, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, .kurdik@uwplatt.edu