AGRICULTURE AWARDS
John Boelts recognized as Farmer of the Year
John Boelts was named Farmer of the Year for his “tireless efforts” with the media during the e-coli outbreak and other agriculture issues.
The Yuma County Farm Bureau recognized community members for their service to agriculture during a Wednesday dinner and awards ceremony. Awards went to individuals who have promoted, served and dedicated themselves to farming and the farm bureau
FARMER OF THE YEAR
Boelts, a partner in Desert Premium Farms, which grows winter vegetables as well as a variety of summer crops, was selected by members as this year’s Farmer of the Year Award to recognize his “tireless efforts” in educating the public about issues, concerns and misconceptions surrounding the industry.
He has traveled across the country and done hundreds of media interviews. He has been on news channels in Yuma, Tucson, Phoenix, as well as CBS and CNBC. Last year he was a guest on the Dr. Oz show, where he did an outstanding job representing the fresh vegetable industry.
In addition to his work in educating the public about ag issues and growing food for the nation and beyond, Boelts has been very active in serving Arizona agriculture. He was appointed by Gov. Doug Ducey to serve on the Arizona Department of Agriculture Advisory Board.
He has served as the county bureau’s president twice, served as second vice president from 2013 to 2017, and he is currently the Arizona Farm Bureau’s first vice president.
He serves as chairman of the AZFB Food Safety Issue Advisory Committee. He is also a graduate of the American Farm Bureau’s PALS program and a member of the Grassroots Outreach team.
In accepting the award, Boelts noted that he had been able to accomplish his work due to the support of the members of the bureau at the county, state and national levels. He expressed appreciation for the ongoing training, advice, stewardship and encouragement he has received. HERITAGE AWARD
Love is what led Rick Dinsmore into agriculture. He was the recipient of the Heritage Award for his long-standing service to agriculture.
He was born in Panama City, Florida, to Carl and Nellie Dinsmore. His father was in the Air Force at the time and eventually they moved to Yuma to be closer to Nellie’s family. Dinsmore attended Arizona Western College and then went