Young Farmers from across the state will converge on Montgomery Feb. 27-March 1 where three Outstanding Young Farm Family (OYFF) finalists will be chosen.

“The Young Farmers Conference is a highlight for the Young Farmers program and is an event we all look forward to each year,” said Young Farmers Division Director Jennifer Himburg. “The conference gives members a chance to connect with others from around the state and build partnerships while learning valuable skills they can take back to their operations.”

Registration on Feb. 27 is open from 4-6 p.m. Afterwards the top 15 OYFF finalists will be announced at the opening banquet, followed by a performance by the country and Southern rock band Blue Denim.

Former Virginia Commissioner of Agriculture Matt Lohr will deliver the keynote speech on Saturday. Sessions throughout the day include ag updates, financial improvement and effectively communicating misconceptions about agriculture.

Saturday’s evening banquet concludes with the announcement of the top three OYFF finalists. Finalists will receive Yeti coolers.

The OYFF will be announced at the Federation Commodity Conference Aug. 1 and will receive more than $60,000 in prizes, including $35,000 towards a new GM vehicle, sponsored by Alfa Insurance; an 825i John Deere Gator and $500 in cash courtesy of Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit; and a lease on a John Deere tractor, provided by local John Deere dealers and John Deere. The winners will represent Alabama at the American Farm Bureau Federation’s (AFBF) Achievement Award competition during the organization’s 2016 annual convention.

The Young Farmers conference will be held at the Renaissance Hotel in downtown Montgomery. Registration deadline is Jan. 27. The cost for adults is $175 per person plus lodging. Child registration is $60. Visit alfayoungfarmers.org for registration information.