Nebraska Farm Bureau’s Silver Eagle Award 2024

By Scout Nelson

The Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB) has selected Steve Nelson of Axtell as the 2024 recipient of its prestigious Silver Eagle Award, to be presented at the annual NEFB Convention on December 10 in Kearney. This award highlights Nelson’s decades-long dedication to agriculture and his unwavering support for Nebraska’s farm and ranch families.

Nelson began farming in the early 1970s and has since grown his family’s farm, now cultivating corn, hybrid seed corn, and soybeans. His Farm Bureau journey started soon after he graduated from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, holding various leadership roles within NEFB and later the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF).

His contributions include chairing committees on water quality, information technology, and trade, further supporting Nebraska agriculture through global partnerships.

“Nelson has devoted his entire life to agriculture, showcasing unwavering commitment and service to the agricultural community in Nebraska,” said NEFB President Mark McHargue. “He has been a passionate advocate, enhancing the well-being of farm and ranch families across the state.”

Nelson’s efforts extended beyond advocacy. During his tenure, NEFB established the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation, promoting agriculture’s connection to urban communities. He also emphasized expanding agricultural trade and worked tirelessly to raise awareness about Nebraska’s high property taxes, pushing for legislative action.

In recognition of his impact, NEFB created the Steve Nelson Yeutter Institute International Trade Internship Award upon his retirement. This initiative provides University of Nebraska–Lincoln students with an internship in Washington, D.C., where they gain hands-on experience in agricultural trade policy.

“Nebraska Farm Bureau is stronger because of Steve’s vision for agriculture’s future,” McHargue noted, expressing congratulations on Nelson’s well-deserved award.

The Nebraska Farm Bureau is a grassroots organization supporting farm and ranch families and striving for prosperity across Nebraska. With over 55,000 members, NEFB works to foster both rural and urban growth through agriculture. For more details, visit www.nefb.org.

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