Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) is accepting nominations for its second annual Texas Ag Influencer of the Year contest, recognizing individuals who use social media to share the story of Texas agriculture.

Nominations are open through July 15 for Texas-based influencers who create content focused on farming, ranching, food, rural life or agricultural advocacy.

The contest highlights individuals who are helping bridge the gap between consumers and agriculture through authentic online storytelling.

“Social media has created new opportunities for farmers, ranchers and agricultural advocates to connect directly with consumers,” said Julie Tomascik, TFB associate director of Communications. “This contest recognizes influencers who are doing an outstanding job sharing the story of agriculture in a way that is engaging, relatable and informative.”

The winner will receive a $5,000 cash prize and the possibility to enter into an influencer partnership with TFB to collaborate on agricultural content and outreach efforts.

Last year’s inaugural winners were Cody and Erika Archie of Bar 7 Ranch. The couple shares day-to-day glimpses of ranch life and agriculture through their social media platforms while helping engage consumers about agriculture and rural life.

Eligible nominees must live in Texas and maintain active social media accounts with agriculture- or food-related content. Influencers may nominate themselves or be nominated by others.

Entries will be evaluated on content quality, engagement, creativity, authenticity and the influencer’s ability to positively represent Texas agriculture online.

“The goal is to recognize individuals who are making an impact through digital storytelling,” Tomascik said. “Sharing life on the farm, answering questions about food production or highlighting the challenges and successes of farming and ranching helps build trust and understanding about agriculture with consumers.”

The contest is part of TFB’s ongoing efforts to connect consumers with the farmers and ranchers who grow their food, fiber and fuel.

The winner will be announced later this year.

More information and nomination details are available at texasfarmbureau.org/aginfluencer.