Nominations are now open for the 2009 Outstanding Young Farmers' Program within the Ontario region.

Nominees may be an individual, couple or managing partner/shareholder of a farm group.

To qualify, the nominee must derive a minimum of two-thirds of gross revenue from farming and not have reached the age of 40 as of Jan. 1 in the year of competition.

Celebrating its 29th year, Canada's Outstanding Young Farmers' program is an annual competition to recognize farmers who exemplify excellence in their profession and promote the tremendous contribution of agriculture, and rural Canada. Demonstrating leadership in the agricultural industry, nominees are judged according to the following criteria: Progress made in their agriculture career; environmental and safety practices; crop and livestock production history; financial and management practices; and contributions to the wellbeing of their community, province and nation.

Sponsored by Pioneer Hi- Bred Limited, TD Canada Trust, Syngenta, UPI LLP, GROWMARK, The Western Fair Association, and Organic Meadow, the Ontario regional event for Canada's Outstanding Young Farmers' Program will be hosted in conjunction with the Western Fair Farm Show March 9 to 11, 2009.

One farmer or farming couple will be selected to represent the Ontario region at the National Awards Program, to be held in Ottawa in December, 2009.

Nominations must be received by Dec. 15, 2008.

For more information, visit www.oyfcanada.com