FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 26, 2026 

MEDIA CONTACT: Ben Koisti, Ben.Koisti@state.sd.us 

 

Governor Rhoden Invites Nominations for 2026 Ag Ambassador Award 

 

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Rhoden is inviting nominations for the 2026 South Dakota Governor’s Ag Ambassador Award, which recognizes individuals or organizations that have made a lasting, positive impact on the state’s agriculture industry. 

 

The award honors leaders who provide visionary leadership, advocate for agriculture, promote responsible stewardship of land and livestock, and highlight the importance of South Dakota agriculture to the global food system. Nominees should demonstrate servant leadership, hard work, honesty, humility, and respect for others. 

 

Nominations are due to the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources by March 13, 2026. The recipient will be recognized during the Governor’s Ag Summit in June 2026. 

 

For additional information, including the nomination form, please visit the website under the Office of the Secretary tab or contact Brian Faris at 605.773.5559 or Brian.Faris@state.sd.us. 

 

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