The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) is now accepting nominations for the 2027 Innovative Dairy Farmer of the Year Award. The deadline to submit nominations is Oct. 2, 2026.
This prestigious award recognizes U.S. dairy operations that exemplify innovation, creativity and forward-thinking leadership. If you know a dairy farm that’s pushing boundaries, embracing technology and positioning itself for future success, now is the time to nominate it.
What Makes an Innovative Dairy Farmer?
Past recipients can be described as clever, creative and leading-edge — operations that don’t just keep pace with the industry but rather set the standard for where it’s headed. The award celebrates farms that have integrated innovation across their operations, from herd management and genetics to environmental stewardship and community engagement.
A Look at the 2026 Winner: Apple Shamrock Dairy Farms
The 2026 award recipient, Apple Shamrock Farms in Townville, Pa., operated by the Waddell family, provides an inspiring example of what innovation looks like in action.
Under the leadership of seventh-generation farmer Josh Waddell, this family operation has transformed a 3,500-acre farm with a 1,250-cow milking herd into a model of modern dairy excellence, producing 38 million pounds of milk annually.
What Sets Apple Shamrock Apart?
- Data-driven herd management: Using advanced Afimilk cow monitoring systems and strategic feed tracking software, the Waddells achieve impressive production metrics — 94 pounds of milk with 4.35% butterfat and 3.35% protein, translating to 109.8 pounds of energy-corrected milk.
- Genetic innovation: Through strategic use of IVF and genomics, they’re actively shaping their herd’s future, selecting embryos from their highest-producing, most functional cows to enhance genetics and improve longevity.
- Environmental leadership: Apple Shamrock implemented a comprehensive three-cell manure system with sand separation that reclaims bedding material and produces potent liquid fertilizer. All liquid manure is injected directly into the ground, maximizing crop yields while drastically limiting greenhouse gas emissions. Their innovative sand removal process improved hauling efficiency by 20% to 25%.
“There’s a lot of unique things that I think we do well, but cows are No. 1 around here,” Waddell says. “That’s what we built our business on and has allowed us to do what we’ve done. We are truly honored to receive this recognition.”
Beyond their farm gates, the Waddells demonstrate industry leadership through benchmarking groups, peer mentorship and community engagement — even housing “foster cows” for a neighboring farm after a devastating fire.
Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding sums it up well: “They are truly a testament to what can happen when innovation and creativity meet a strong work ethic and desire to progress.”
Who Should You Nominate?
IDFA and co-sponsor Dairy Herd Management magazine are seeking active U.S. dairy farms that have:
- Embraced innovation and technology to improve efficiency and sustainability.
- Developed industry collaborations and partnerships that drive growth.
- Positioned themselves to meet future economic and business challenges.
- Demonstrated leadership within their communities and the broader dairy industry.
Nominees will be judged on their current methods, forward-thinking strategies and how they set themselves apart from peers.
How to Submit a Nomination
Nominating a deserving operation is straightforward:
- Complete the Innovative Dairy Farmer of the Year 2027 nomination form.
- Describe how the operation uses technology, partnerships and innovation.
- Explain how they’re meeting future challenges and their role in the community.
- Include additional information and letters of recommendation as attachments.
There is no fee to enter.
The winning operation will be featured in the January 2027 issue of Dairy Herd Management magazine and recognized during Dairy Forum 2027 in Orlando, Fla.
Don’t Wait — Nominate Today
The dairy industry thrives when innovation is recognized and celebrated. Whether it’s a neighbor, a colleague or your own operation, if there’s a farm doing exceptional work, they deserve recognition.
Remember, the deadline is Oct. 2, 2026. Don’t let this opportunity pass.
Visit idfa.org for nomination forms and more information.
