American Farm Bureau Federation Golden Plow Award

Objectives

The objectives of the Golden Plow award are to identify, select and award those members of Congress, regardless of their party affiliation, whose philosophies or records demonstrate their commitment to the private enterprise system; sound agricultural policies supported by Farm Bureau; fiscal conservatism; and reduced federal regulations on businesses and individuals.

Why “Golden Plow?”

The plow is the most generic symbol of agriculture available.

The Form of the Award

The award consists of a polished bronze replica of the John Deere Commemorative Plow, used as a part of that Company’s 150th anniversary celebration. The John Deere Company has granted their approval for our use of the symbol for the purpose of the award. The plow replica will be mounted on a finished hardwood base, 12” long, 2 1/2” high, 3 1/2” wide. A brass plate will be mounted on the front of the base, identifying the name of the award, the person receiving the award, the name of the American Farm Bureau Federation and the year.

Award Criteria

• Nominations should be made based upon superior commitment to the enactment of Farm Bureau policy.
• Ideally, nominees should have at least a 60 percent voting record with Farm Bureau.
• One House award and one Senate award should be made without regard to party affiliation.
• Repeat awards are permissible.
• Award recipients shall receive approval from the state Farm Bureaus after tentative approval by the AFBF President. Nominations for the award will be submitted by the AFBF Public Policy Department staff, accompanied by justification.
• The Board of Directors of the American Farm Bureau Federation shall annually make a final determination as to which members of Congress, if any, shall receive the award.
• The award shall be presented in one of the following ways:
  • At the annual meeting of the Council of Presidents;
  • During the Public Policy Conference;
  • During a state Farm Bureau congressional visit; and
  • At the annual meeting of the American Farm Bureau Federation
• The award shall be presented in person to the recipient by the President of the American Farm Bureau Federation or a designated officer or director.

Golden Plow Award
1988 to 2012