NACAA

PURPOSE

To recognize members who develop and implement outstanding educational programs in sustainable agriculture. Sustainable agriculture is defined as an integrated system of plant and animal production practices having a site-specific application that will, over the long term: satisfy human food and fiber needs, enhance environmental quality and the natural resources base upon which the agricultural economy depends, make the most efficient use of non-renewable resources and on-farm resources and integrate, where appropriate, natural biological cycles and controls, sustain the economic viability of farm operations, enhance the quality of life for farmers and society as a whole.

ELIGIBILITY

All NACAA members in good standing with their state associations are eligible. Team entries are permitted. All team members need not be a current member of NACAA. State Extension Programs Chairs are eligible but must follow established guidelines. Application must be signed by a current NACAA member.

ENTRY

Submitting entries electronically is encouraged. Complete general application form and submit with entry that does not exceed 1200 words and reflects program activities and accomplishments within the past three years.

Entries should be organized according to, and will be evaluated according to, the following criteria: Educational Objectives, Program Activities, Teaching Methods, Results, Impact Statement, and Evaluation. All entries should clearly relate how the activities and accomplishments related to the definition of sustainable agriculture listed above. National and regional SARE staff will assist with judging of these entries.

The score sheet for all Extension Programs Committee recognition programs is located on page 8 of the January edition of The County Agent. Attach no more than three (3) supporting documents.

Abstract is required with application. If team entry, team member names on the abstract must be the same as on the application form. Both a written and electronic copy of the abstract must be submitted. See page 12 for abstract example and format that must be followed.

AWARDS

The SARE Regional Offices will provide each regional winner up to a $500 honorarium. These awards are not cumulative. The Executive Program Committee reserves the right to adjust awards based on the availability of donor funds.

Each Regional Winner must present his/her program during the NACAA AM/PIC to be eligible for the honorarium. Consult AM/PIC Program for time and location.

In the event of a team winning entry, one honorarium will be given in the amount indicated above, along with an appropriate certificate/plaque for each team member who is a NACAA member.

All entries will be judged with a designated number of abstracts selected for publication in the AM/PIC Proceedings.

DEADLINE

Entries must be in the possession of your Extension Programs Committee State Chair by March 15. State Chairs should send all state entries, with the winning entry designated, to their Regional Vice Chair by April 1.