BLOOMINGTON, Ill. — The Illinois Milk Producers Association is calling for nominations of individuals to be considered for formal recognition in 2020 for their outstanding contributions to the dairy industry.
The Dairy Industry Service Award recognizes an Illinois individual who has shown exemplary service and benefit to the state’s dairy industry. The nominee may be engaged in milk or milk product production, marketing, education, research, promotion, regulation, allied service or any service of genuine merit and benefit to the industry. In 2019, this award went to Gordon Ropp of McLean County.
The Sustainability Award recognizes an Illinois dairy farm or dairy farmer who has made outstanding contributions toward innovative technologies and best management practices to improve environmental stewardship and economic viability. In 2019, this award went to Paul Meyer of Clinton County.
Anyone may submit nominations for these awards. All nominations will be considered by the members of the Illinois Milk Producers Association Committee, with final awards determinations made by the IMPA board of directors in November.
Membership in a dairy organization is not required. Both industry awards are offered annually, and winners will be recognized at the 2020 November IMPA board meeting and throughout the industry.
Nominations will be accepted through Sept. 30. For more information and nomination forms, visit Illinoismilk.org.