Entries are now being invited from individuals or organisations for the 2011 Farmers' Union of Wales Pembrokeshire Countryside Business Award which aims to highlight the achievements of younger farmers in the county.
Entrants do not have to be a mainstream farmer to enter, said the union's Pembrokeshire county chairman Dai Miles.
"They could be undertaking some form of diversification project on their farm or providing a service to the agricultural sector such as silage or slurry contracting.
"Last year's runner-up, for example, uses his computer skills to help install and maintain robotic milking systems and also works with vets to maintain computer links between them and the herd health schemes used by their farm clients.
"If the agricultural industry is to have a future in Pembrokeshire it is vital that we not only encourage new entrants into the industry, but that we also acknowledge the hard work of existing younger farmers and nurture them.
"In presenting this award we hope that the dedication and determination of the younger generation of farmers in the county will be highlighted and applauded," he added.
The award will be presented to an individual 40 years of age or under who, in the opinion of the judges, has shown a determination and dedication to the agricultural industry in Pembrokeshire, whether it be through farming in their own right, undertaking some form of diversification project on their farm or by providing a service to the agricultural sector.
To be eligible for the award the individual must be:
- 40 years of age or under on January 1, 2011.
- Actively involved in agricultural production or land management.
- Normally resident within Pembrokeshire.
The closing date for entries is 5pm on Friday May 20, 2011, with application forms being available from the FUW county office, 3 North Street, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire SA61 2JE. Previous applicants are also welcome to re-apply.
A cash prize, perpetual trophy and a year's free membership will be awarded to the winner.
Last year's winner Neil Perkins, 31, of Dinas Island Farm, Newport, Pembrokeshire, has converted his family's beef and sheep farm to a low-cost sheep business financially successful in an environment without subsidies.
One of the judges, FUW county president Dafydd Williams, said: "Neil demonstrated a clear vision of what he wished to do following a visit to New Zealand on a Nuffield scholarship.
"His father agreed and their plan was supported by their landlords, the National Trust. Neil has a clear understanding of the industry as it moves into a period of much lower financial support from Government."