Each year MU Extension in Camden County and the Camden County Farm Bureau selects a local farm family as the Farm Family of the Year to represent Camden County at the Missouri State Fair. The farm family chosen should meet the following criteria:
- Farm families who are actively engaged in agriculture and rely on University of Missouri Extension and the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources for their programming and technical assistance.
- Active supporters and cooperators with University of Missouri Extension
- Active in their community and in leadership roles with organizations such as Farm Bureau, church, school and other farm organizations.
- Actively involved or support youth organizations such as 4-H, FFA and other youth organizations.
- Respected by their neighbors and community for their leadership and engagement.
- The family is interested in attending and agrees to represent their county at the Missouri State Fair.
The annual event is a partnership of Missouri Farm Bureau, the Missouri Department of Agriculture, the Missouri State Fair and Commissioners, the University of Missouri College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources, and University of Missouri Extension and Engagement.
All 114 of Missouri's counties nominated families this year, plus the City of St. Louis, with nearly 500 family members being honored from across the state. The event showcases the impact Missouri Farm Families have on the economy and heritage of our state. "These families are involved in agriculture activities in their communities, and are active participants in local outreach and extension," said Missouri State Fair Director Mark Wolfe. "As the showcase for Missouri agriculture, the Missouri State Fair is most certainly the appropriate place to celebrate these families."