Users and fans of John Deere equipment in Louisiana have a chance to honor their favorite farmer through a program sponsored by a number of group.

This will be the 14th year a person in the state will be honored as the Louisiana Farmer of the Year. The acknowledgement is sponsored by the Louisiana State University AgCenter, the state's Department of Agriculture and Forestry, the Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation and the Agri-News Network.

Bill Richardson, chancellor of the LSU AgCenter, noted agriculture is an important part of the state's economy.

"It provides not only food and fiber for our citizens, but for many, it is the place where they go to work," Richardson said.

Those interested have until December 10, 2010, to nominate a person for the honor. Three finalists will be chosen and featured during a ceremony on February 25,2011, at Baton Rouge's White Oak Plantation. There, the winner will be announced and will receive a number of prizes.

Many states and the federal government have their own programs to honor agricultural participants who have contributed greatly to the industry.