• California: Russell Zimmerman, Nipomo High School
• Delaware: Mark Breeding, Caesar Rodney High School
• Iowa: Zach Morris, West Liberty High School
• Illinois: Joe Steffen, Newark High School
• Indiana: Lynnette Markley, Argos High School
• Kansas: Dr. Kelly Hoelting, Mission Valley High School
• Kentucky: Ben Prevette, Hopkins County Central High School
• Maryland: Becky Yost, Northern High School
• Missouri: Jarred Sayre, Milan C‑2 High School
• Nebraska: Tony Jensen, Freeman High School
• New York: Mary Coolbaugh, Marcus Whitman Central School
• Ohio: Alex Zimmer, Buckeye Valley High School
• Pennsylvania: Doug Masser, Pequea Valley High School
• South Dakota: Dave VanderWal, De Smet High School
• Utah: Chad Warnick, Delta High School 

Nationwide partnered with state FFA organizations to establish the Golden Owl Award in 2018 to highlight the growing importance of agricultural educators and recognize those who go above and beyond to support students pursuing careers in agriculture, agribusiness and environmental stewardship. Since its inception, the program has supplied more than $800,000 to support teachers, students, school agricultural programs and FFA organizations. The award has expanded each year due to popularity, adding Delaware and Utah in 2025 to its growing list of participating states.

As grand prize winners, the teachers earn the title of their state’s Ag Educator of the Year, the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy, and $3,000 in funding to help bring new opportunities to their programs.

“These outstanding teachers exemplify passion and devotion to shaping the future of their communities,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “Their tireless efforts inspire the next generation of agriculture leaders, and we’re proud to recognize their invaluable contributions as Ag Educators of the Year.”

Each year, the selected finalists, chosen by established state committees, are awarded $500¹ in recognition of their contributions. Nationwide also contributes $5,000 to each of the participating state FFA organizations.

To see a complete list of partners, read more about the state honorees, see past winners or learn about the nomination process in select states, visit www.GoldenOwlAward.com.


^{1 Ohio finalists will receive a personalized plaque and $1,500 to fund their programs. Ohio’s Ag Educator of the Year title will receive the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy and an additional $5,000 to help fund future educational efforts for their program. Ohio’s partners, Farm Credit Mid-America and AgCredit, provided funding for the increase in prize money. In accordance with Ohio law, cash prizes in Ohio are awarded to the winner’s school ag program.}

Nationwide has selected Nick Andersen as the new leader of Agribusiness Distribution and Underwriting, following Dirk Pollitt’s retirement. Effective July 1, Andersen will lead Nationwide’s farm, ranch and commercial agribusiness sales and underwriting teams and oversee operational work that influences business performance.

Andersen currently serves as Vice President of Agribusiness Claims and Strategic Transformation and brings more than 25 years of insurance experience to his new role.

“Nick brings deep experience across underwriting, product, operations and claims, along with a strong partnership mindset that will serve our agribusiness team well,” said Brad Liggett, president of Nationwide Agribusiness. “He is a thoughtful, steady leader who has made meaningful contributions across our organization, and I’m confident he is well suited to help lead Nationwide Agribusiness into the future.”

Andersen also has a strong commitment to community leadership through board service, including Simpson College Board of Trustees and past leadership with the Des Moines Community Playhouse and The American Red Cross of Central Iowa.

“With significantly more corn in storage, we’re already seeing a concerning rise in grain bin entrapments across the country this year,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “Nationwide remains committed to preventing these tragedies by equipping local first responders with the life-saving rescue tools and training they need. While we’re incredibly proud that these resources have helped save 16 lives since 2014, including a recent rescue earlier this month in Missouri, we know there is still more work to be done.”

To raise awareness and help prevent these accidents, Nationwide has opened its 13^th annual Nominate Your Fire Department Contest in recognition of Grain Bin Safety Week.

Startling facts: Injuries & fatalities from grain bins*

• In 2024, at least 34 grain entrapments were documented – a 25% increase from 2023.
• There were 584 documented entrapments between 2007 and 2024. It’s estimated an additional 30% of cases go unreported.
• In four seconds, an adult can sink knee-deep in flowing grain and be rendered unable to free themselves without assistance. In just 20 seconds, an adult can be fully engulfed.
• 100% of grain bin entrapments are preventable.

Grain Bin Safety Week continues to make an impact: February 15-21, 2026

Nationwide initiated its annual Grain Bin Safety campaign in 2014 to raise awareness of the dangers of working in grain bins and promote a zero-entry mentality. Grain Bin Safety Week, which takes place Feb. 15-21, 2026, brings a national spotlight to the issue each year.

A key component of Grain Bin Safety Week is the annual Nominate Your Fire Department Contest, which aims to supply fire departments across rural America with the specialized rescue training and equipment needed to respond if an entrapment occurs. Since 2014, Nationwide and partners have awarded 452 grain rescue tubes to first responders across 35 states – providing over $2 million in resources in partnership with local sponsors.

The Nominate Your Fire Department Contest is now open until April 30, 2026. Learn how to nominate your local fire department here.

Nationwide works closely each year with the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS) to deliver both the rescue equipment and hands-on training.

“Rural fire departments are often the only line of defense when an entrapment occurs,” said Dan Neenan, director at NECAS. “It’s critically important to ensure these first responders not only have the specialized rescue equipment, but also the training needed to respond effectively. NECAS is proud to join Nationwide and its partners to make a difference.” 

For more information about the program or the nomination process, visit www.GrainBinSafetyWeek.com.  For anyone who would like to get involved or sponsor a rescue tube in your area, visit the Grain Bin Safety Week donations page.

Grain Bin Safety Week is made possible by the following generous partners:

• Central Valley Ag
• CHS
• David Larson Insurance Services
• Delaware Farm Bureau
• Delaware Soybean Board
• Gregerson Salvage
• Growmark
• Horizon Farm Credit
• Hummel Group
• Indiana Corn Marketing Council
• KC Supply
• Lutz Agency
• Maryland Farm Bureau
• MissouriCorn
• Nationwide
• NECAS
• New York Farm Bureau
• NOHR Wortmann Engineering
• Ohio Farm Bureau
• Pennsylvania Farm Bureau
• ProValue Insurance
• Specialty Risk Insurance
• Syngenta
• TrueNorth Companies
• Westside Salvage

After receiving more than 750 nominations in the 2025 Nominate Your Fire Department Contest, an annual component of Nationwide’s Grain Bin Safety efforts, the insurance carrier and its partners announced that they awarded grain rescue tubes and hands-on training to the following 62 fire departments across rural America in 2025.

1. Adamsburg Volunteer Fire Company - Adamsburg, PA
2. Baltimore County Fire Station - Parkton, MD
3. Boalsburg Fire Company - Boalsburg, PA
4. Boardman Oregon Fire Rescue District - Boardman, OR
5. Bono Fire Protection District - Bono, AR
6. Breeding Area Volunteer Fire Department - Breeding, KY
7. Camp Dick Fire & Rescue - Lancaster, KY
8. Canby Fire Rescue - Canby, MN
9. Cass-Clinton Volunteer Fire Department - Wanatah, IN
10. Clearwater Fire Department - Clearwater, KS
11. Columbia County Fire District 3 - Dayton, WA
12. Coulterville Fire - Coulterville, IL
13. East Prairie Fire Department - East Prairie, MO
14. Eaton Fire Protection District - Eaton, CO
15. Edgewood Fire Department - Anderson, IN
16. Elkville Fire Department - Elkville, IL
17. Fairland Volunteer Fire Department - Fairland, IN
18. Felton Community Fire Company - Felton, DE
19. Fire Department Mount Joy - Mount Joy, PA
20. Fischer Rescue Squad - Fort Payne, AL
21. Forreston Fire Protection District - Forreston, IL
22. Frankford Volunteer Fire Company - Frankford, DE
23. Genesee Fire Department - Genesee, ID
24. Harmony Volunteer Fire Department - Olin Station - Olin, NC
25. Hazleton White River Fire Territory - Hazleton, IN
26. Henry Volunteer Fire Department - Henry, SD
27. Holly Volunteer Fire Department - Holly, CO
28. Howard Volunteer Fire Department - Avoca, NY
29. Hudson Fire Department - Hudson, IL
30. Hugo Fire Protection District - Hugo, CO
31. Kennedyville Volunteer Fire Department - Kennedyville, MD
32. Kenova Volunteer Fire Department - Kenova, WV
33. Kent Fire Company - Madison, IN
34. La Junta Fire Department - La Junta, CO
35. Lehr Fire District - Lehr, ND
36. Manchester Volunteer Fire Company - Manchester, MD
37. Martinsburg Area Fire Protection District - Martinsburg, MO
38. Midway Fire Protection District - Stark City, MO
39. Millstadt Union Fire Department - Millstadt, IL
40. Minneota Fire Department - Minneota, MN
41. Montgomery Fire Department - Montgomery, MI
42. Montgomery County Special Operations - Gaithersburg, MD
43. Montgomery Fire Protection District - Montgomery City, MO
44. Morgantown Rural Fire Department - Morgantown, IN
45. Nemaha Rural Fire Department - Nemaha, NE
46. New Plymouth Fire Protection District - New Plymouth, ID
47. North Fairfield Volunteer Fire Department - North Fairfield, OH
48. Queen Anne-Hillsboro Volunteer Fire Company - Queen Anne, MD
49. Radcliffe Fire Department - Radcliffe, IA
50. Ritzville Fire Department - Ritzville, WA
51. Rosalie Rescue Squad - Pisgah, AL
52. St. John Volunteer Fire Department - St John, WA
53. Stella Rural Fire Protection District Station 3 - Stella, MO
54. Story City/Lafayette Township Fire Department - Story City, IA
55. Transfer Volunteer Fire Department - Greenville, PA
56. Troy Mills Fire Department - Troy Mills, IA
57. Upland Rural Fire Department - Upland, NE
58. Valley Township Fire Department - Danville, PA
59. Vigilant Hose Company - Emmitsburg, MD
60. Volunteer Hose Company of Middletown - Middletown, DE
61. Woodland Township Fire Department - Woodland, MI
62. York Springs Fire Company - York Springs, PA 

NECAS also provided re-training for the following 10 fire departments: 

1. Axtell Volunteer Fire & Rescue - Axtell, NE
2. Carthage Fire Department - Carthage, MO
3. Clear Spring Volunteer Fire Company - Clear Spring, MD – re-training scheduled for 2026
4. Golden City Volunteer Fire Department - Golden City, MO
5. Granger Fire Department - Granger, IA
6. Missouri Soybean Association Event - Columbia, MO
7. Polo Fire Protection District - Polo, IL
8. Seaford Volunteer Fire Department - Seaford, DE
9. Toledo Fire Protection District - Toledo, IL
10. Washington County Fire Department - Hoyleton, IL 

In partnership with the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS), Nationwide and its partners have now supplied grain rescue equipment and training to 452 first responders across 35 states, eclipsing over $2 million in resources provided, to help prepare them when local grain entrapments occur.

“With two rescues this summer, six in 2024, and a total of 15 lives saved since the program began in 2014, Nationwide’s Grain Bin Safety program continues to make a powerful and lasting impact in communities across the country,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “We’re grateful to the firefighters and community partners who have turned training and equipment into saved lives — proof that these resources truly make a difference.”

NECAS delivered grain rescue tubes and training to 62 fire departments and provided re-training to 10 others, traveling to each site with state-of-the-art grain entrapment simulators. The comprehensive training sessions included classroom education and rescue simulations using the entrapment tools, which are loaded onto 20-foot trailers and able to hold about 100 bushels of grain each. 

Nationwide continues to work with partners throughout the year to provide additional grain rescue tubes and training sessions to fire departments in need. To learn how to get involved or sponsor a rescue tube for your local fire department, visit the Partner With Us webpage.

The program is supported by Nationwide, NECAS and the following generous partners:

1. KC Supply, NECAS, Nationwide Agribusiness, Indiana Corn Marketing Council, Horizon Farm Credit, Maryland Grain Producers, Farm Credit of Southern Colorado, Specialty Risk Insurance, Lutz Agency, Inc, Missouri Soybean Association, Maryland Soybean Board, Delaware Soybean Board, CHS, Farm Credit Mid-America, Northwest Grain Growers, ProValue Insurance, Delaware Farm Bureau, Ohio Farm Bureau, New York Farm Bureau, Maryland Farm Bureau, Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, Westside Salvage, Gregerson Salvage, GROWMARK, Pledge Insurance Advisors, Terminal Solutions, Agfinity, Panichelle Insurance, Ritzville Warehouse, Morrow County Grain Growers, Pacific Northwest Farmers Cooperative, Nebraska Soybean Board, Nebraska Corn Board, Valley View Agri-Systems, Gallagher, TrueNorth Companies, Farm Credit of Illinois, Sump Saver, NOHR Wortmann Engineering, IRMI, Central Valley Ag (CVA), Grain Weevil

Since its inception in 2018, the Golden Owl Award has supplied more than $600,000 to support teachers, students, school agricultural programs and FFA organizations. Last year, there were over 4,600 nominations across 13 participating states, and the program recognized 96 exceptional ag teachers including 13 “Ag Educators of the Year.”

Now, the Golden Owl Award is expanding to two new states – Delaware and Utah – due to its positive impact and popularity. The award program will now recognize leading agricultural teachers across 15 states: California, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Dakota and Utah.

To nominate an ag teacher for the 2025-2026 Golden Owl Award, visit www.GoldenOwlAward.com.¹

“Agricultural educators are so much more than teachers; they’re community servants who are shaping the leaders of tomorrow,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “Together with our partners, we encourage students, parents, fellow teachers and other community members to nominate their agricultural teachers to acknowledge their hard work.”

Following the state’s nomination period for 2025-2026, a selection committee will determine each state’s finalists, who will receive an individualized plaque and $500 to support their agriculture programs. One grand prize winner in each state will then be selected to win the Ag Educator of the Year title for their state, the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy, and an additional $3,000 Nationwide-funded check.²

Nationwide is committed to supporting the future of the ag community through meaningful sponsorships of national and local organizations. In conjunction with the Golden Owl Award, Nationwide is donating $5,000 to each participating state’s FFA organization to further support the personal and professional growth of students, teachers and advisors alike. 

To learn more about the Golden Owl Award, visit GoldenOwlAward.com.

¹ California Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 2 – Jan. 16, 2026. Delaware Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 1 – Nov. 15, 2025. Illinois Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 1 – Nov. 15, 2025. Indiana Golden Owl Award nomination period is Oct. 1 – Dec. 15, 2025. Iowa Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 2 – Dec. 1, 2025. Kansas Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025. Kentucky Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 18 – Nov. 30, 2025. Maryland Golden Owl Award nomination period is Oct. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025. Missouri Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 15 – Dec. 31, 2025. Nebraska Golden Owl Award nomination period is Oct. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025. New York Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 10 – Nov. 15, 2025. Ohio Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025. Pennsylvania Golden Owl Award nomination period is Aug. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025. South Dakota Golden Owl Award nomination period is Oct. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025. Utah Golden Owl Award nomination period is Oct. 1 – Dec. 15, 2025.

² Ohio finalists will receive a personalized plaque and $1,500 to fund their programs. Ohio’s Ag Educator of the Year title will receive the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy and an additional $5,000 to help fund future educational efforts for their program. Ohio’s partners, Farm Credit Mid-America and AgCredit, provided funding for the increase in prize money. In accordance with Ohio law, cash prizes in Ohio are awarded to the winner’s school ag program.

After receiving more than 4,600 nominations across 13 states and selecting 96 finalists for the 2024-2025 Golden Owl Award, Nationwide and its partners are proud to announce the Golden Owl Award grand prize winners and Ag Educators of the Year:

• California: Marc DeBernardi, Santa Maria High School
• Illinois: Ralph Allen, Mt. Pulaski High School
• Indiana: Jim Wildermuth, North Miami High School
• Iowa: Laura Brecht, Prairie High School of Cedar Rapids
• Kansas: Melisa Bertz, Prairie View High School
• Kentucky: Jacob Falwell, Calloway County High School
• Maryland: Kathy Wojcik, Applications and Research Laboratory
• Missouri: Scott Stone, Centralia High School
• Nebraska: Joel Miller, Hampon Public School
• New York: Amy Maxwell, Salem Central School District
• Ohio: Tom Holton, East Knox High School
• Pennsylvania: Krista Pontius, Greenwood High School  
• South Dakota: Dan Tonak, Willow Lake High School

Nationwide partnered with state FFA organizations to create the Golden Owl Award in 2018 to highlight the growing importance of ag educators and recognize the services of leading teachers. With 70 educators across 30 states leaving the profession in just two years¹, recognizing and supporting those preparing the next generation of agricultural leaders has never been more critical. The program provides funding to help support the teachers’ programs and elevate the learning opportunities for their students.

As grand prize winners, the teachers earn the title of their state’s Ag Educator of the Year, the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy, and $3,000 in funding to help bring new opportunities to their programs.²

“These outstanding teachers exemplify passion and devotion to shaping the future of their communities,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “Their tireless efforts inspire the next generation of agriculture leaders, and we’re proud to recognize their invaluable contributions as Ag Educators of the Year.”

The impact of these educators is evident in stories like that of Jeffrey Stimmell, Ohio’s 2023 Ag Educator of the Year. When he joined the Delaware Area Career Center in 2014 to lead the agricultural science program at Big Walnut Local Schools, the program had just 40 students. Today, enrollment has grown to more than 230. “Together, we work to show students the different ways they can get engaged in agriculture,” Stimmell shared.

Each year, the selected honorees, chosen by established state committees, are awarded $500^2,3 in recognition of their contributions. Nationwide also contributes $5,000 to each of the participating state FFA organizations.

To read more about the state honorees, see past winners, view the full list of partners, or learn about the nomination process in select states, visit www.GoldenOwlAward.com.

^{[1] Stability in a Transitional Time: Factors Contributing to Agricultural Educator’s Decision to Remain in the Profession
[2] In accordance with Ohio law, cash prizes in Ohio are awarded to the winners’ school ag programs.
[3] Because of additional funding by AgCredit and Farm Credit Mid-America, cash prizes on behalf of the Ohio honorees and grand prize winners are $1,500 and $5,000, respectively.}

To help address this trend, Nationwide created the Golden Owl Award in partnership with state FFA organizations to celebrate and invest in the educators keeping agriculture strong. Just ask Jeffrey Stimmell, who was named Ohio’s 2023 Ag Educator of the Year. When he was hired in 2014 by the Delaware Area Career Center to take over the agricultural science program in the Big Walnut Local School District, he had about 40 students. Today, more than 230 students are enrolled in the program – so many that he had to hire a second teacher. “Together, we work to show students the different ways they can get engaged in agriculture,” Stimmell said.

After receiving more than 4,600 nominations across 13 states for the 2024-2025 Golden Owl Award, Nationwide and its partners are proud to recognize 96 educators as finalists.

California:

• Vernon Clark, Bakersfield-Foothill High School
• Marc DeBernardi, Santa Maria High School
• Carrie Phillips, Altaville-Bret Harte High School
• Lori Porter, Livermore High School

Iowa:

• Meghan Bond, Central Jr. & Sr. High of Elkader
• Laura Brecht, Prairie High School of Cedar Rapids
• Ryan Faught, Forest City High School
• Kaylea Hansmann, West Sioux High School of Hawarden
• Andrew Johnson, Clarinda High School
• Alex Rodgers, Southeast Warren High School of Liberty Center
• Andrea Rouse, Des Moines Area Community College of Ankeny

Illinois:

• Ralph Allen, Mt. Pulaski High School
• Darin Blunier, Midland High School
• Jessica Chipman, Flanagan Cornell High School
• Jeff Robison, Goreville High School
• Bill Waggoner, Kaskaskia College
• Kirsten Wyatt, Paxton-Buckley-Loda High School

Indiana:

• Jamie Earnhart, Central Noble High School
• Chris Kauffman, Westfield High School
• Jeff Miller, Sullivan High School
• Janna Morgan, North Putnam High School
• Rebekah Peterson, DeKalb High School
• Kenna Slough, Shakamak High School
• McCord Snider, East Central High School
• Jim Wildermuth, North Miami High School

Kansas:

• Melisa Bertz, Prairie View High School
• Steve Buss, Jefferson West High School
• Janet Gottstine, Logan High School
• Emma Lehmann, Neodesha High School
• Elissa Mullinix, Manhattan High School
• Kelly Sipes, Stanton Co. High School
• Lauren VanAllen, Clearwater High School

Kentucky:

• Keely Cooper, Madison Central High School
• Carrie Davis, Greenup County High School
• Wesley Estes, Logan County High School
• Jacob Falwell, Calloway County High School
• Harvey Franklin, Lincoln County High School
• Frank Gifford, Robertson County High School
• Greg Hillard, Ohio County High School
• Lewis Mink, Rockcastle County High School
• Jacklyn Post, Owen County High School
• Jeffrey Shaffer, Western Hills High School
• Makenzie Thomas, Marion County High School
• Maen Woods, Caldwell County High School

Maryland:

• Rachael Coffey, Cecil County School of Technology
• Erika Edwards, Hereford High School
• Amanda Farmer, Boonsboro High School
• Brittany Sentelle, Frederick High School
• Kathy Wojcik, Applications and Research Laboratory

Missouri:

• Tonya Jedlicka, Southern Missouri Technical Institute
• Randy Plattner, Grand River Technical School
• Gary Reichel, California R-I High School
• Jay Shepherd, Mount Vernon High School
• Michael Slater, Grand River Technical School
• Rylyn Small, East Prairie High School
• Scott Stone, Centralia High School

Nebraska:

• Cole Blomendahl, Mead Public High School
• Kathleen Craig, North Platte Public Schools
• Dave Ference, Ord Public School
• Amy Kohtz, Friend Public School - Exeter-Milligan/Friend FFA Chapter
• Joel Miller, Hampon Public School
• Ellen Trahan, Keya Paha County Schools

New York:

• Tara Burke, Tri-Valley Secondary School
• Matthew Greene, Alexandria Central High School
• Lily Anne Lachnor, Marion Junior/Senior High School
• Chelsey Mahany, Groton Junior/Senior High School
• Amy Maxwell, Salem Central School District
• Katie Mitrowski, Cattaraugus Little Valley High School
• Tanya Nickerson, Springville Griffith Institute
• McKensey Periard, Owen D Young Central School
• Cathleen Reeder, Afton Junior/Senior High School
• Tamara Stanford, John Bowne High School

Ohio:

• Jaime Chenevey, West Holmes High School
• Haley Davis, New Lexington High School
• Alison Derringer, Twin Valley South High School
• Kris Guthrie, Ridgedale High School
• Donna Hohman, Carey High School
• Tom Holton, East Knox High School
• Alexis Howell, Evergreen High School
• Laura Kackley, Meadowbrook High School
• Jamie Loudon, Georgetown High School
• Nejla Shaheen, Bio-Med Science Academy High School

Pennsylvania:

• Gretchen Dingman, Tri-Valley High School
• Nicole Hall, Millville Area High School
• Krista Pontius, Greenwood High School
• Kara Ruffalo, Avella High School

South Dakota:

• Austin Bishop, Belle Fourche High School
• Josh Christiansen, Harrisburg High School
• Sara Colombe, Milbank High School
• Reed Johnson, Philip High School
• Nathan Knutson, Viborg-Hurley High School
• Sarah McClure, Gettysburg High School
• Susan Roudabush, Ethan High School
• Dan Tonak, Willow Lake High School

“Behind every thriving ag program is a dedicated teacher planting the seeds for tomorrow’s food and farm innovations,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “By spotlighting their impact through the Golden Owl Award, we’re not only honoring their commitment, we’re also investing in the future of agriculture and the students who will shape it.”

Each year, the selected honorees, chosen by established state committees, are awarded $500^2,3 in recognition of their contributions. One finalist in each state is then selected as the Ag Educator of the Year and receives an additional $3,000^2,3 and the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy. Nationwide also contributes $5,000 to each of the participating state FFA organizations.

To read more about the state honorees, see past winners, or learn about the nomination process in select states, visit www.GoldenOwlAward.com.

Startling facts: Injuries & fatalities from grain bins*

• In 2023, at least 27 grain entrapments were reported. There were 16 fatalities (15 in 2022).
• More than 300 grain entrapments have been recorded in the past decade. It’s estimated an additional 30% of cases go unreported.
• In four seconds, an adult can sink knee-deep in flowing grain and be rendered unable to free themselves without assistance. In just 20 seconds, an adult can be fully engulfed.
• Suffocation from engulfment or oxygen-deficient atmospheres is the leading cause of death in grain accidents.

“There continues to be a significant need for these resources, and we’re grateful to see our program is making a real impact with six successful rescues last year and a total of 13 lives saved since 2014,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “For over a decade, Nationwide has been a leader in the fight to correct this industry issue, and while we’re incredibly proud of the efforts and the many partners who’ve made them possible, there is more work to be done.”

Grain Bin Safety Week continues to make an impact: February 16-22, 2025

Nationwide initiated its annual Grain Bin Safety campaign in 2014 to raise awareness of the dangers of working in grain bins and promote a zero-entry mentality. Grain Bin Safety Week, which takes place Feb. 16-22, 2025, brings a national spotlight to the issue each year.

A key component of Grain Bin Safety Week is the annual Nominate Your Fire Department Contest, which aims to supply fire departments across rural America with the specialized rescue training and equipment needed to respond if an entrapment occurs. Since 2014, Nationwide and partners have awarded 390 grain rescue tubes to first responders across 32 states – nearly $2 million in resources provided.

The Nominate Your Fire Department Contest is now open until April 30, 2025. Learn how to nominate your local fire department here.

Nationwide collaborates each year with the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS) to deliver the rescue equipment and provide safety training.

“Time is of the essence when responding to these accidents and rural fire departments are often the only line of defense when an entrapment takes place in their region,” said Dan Neenan, director at NECAS. “It’s critically important to ensure these first responders not only have the specialized rescue equipment, but also the training needed to respond effectively. NECAS is proud to join Nationwide and its partners to make a difference.” 

For more information about the program, nomination process or how you can get involved, visit www.GrainBinSafetyWeek.com. 

Grain Bin Safety Week is made possible by the following generous partners:

KC Supply
NECAS
IN Corn Marketing Council
Horizon Farm Credit
Maryland Grain Producers
Specialty Risk Insurance
Lutz Agency
Maryland Soybean Board
CHS
Delaware Soybean Board
ProValue Insurance LLC
Valley View Agri-Systems
GROWMARK
Gregerson Salvage
West Side Salvage
Pledge Insurance Advisors
Delaware Farm Bureau
Ohio Farm Bureau
Maryland Farm Bureau
Pennsylvania Farm Bureau
New York Farm Bureau
Gallagher
True North Companies
Sump Saver
IRMI
NOHR Wortmann Engineering
Grain Weevil Corporation
 

All cash contributions help purchase grain bin tubes and/or training. All donations are managed through the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS), a 501(c)(3) non-profit.

For official rules, visit nationwide.com/GBSWContestRules

“FARM BUREAU” and the Farm Bureau mark are registered service marks of the American Farm Bureau Federation and used under license by Nationwide. 

Nationwide, Nationwide is on your side and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2025

 *Sources: Summary of U.S. Agricultural Confined Space-Related Injuries and Fatalities; Purdue University

• California: Rick Neugebauer, McArthur-Fall River High School
• Illinois: Mark Steber, Olney High School
• Indiana: Ron Noll, Prairie Heights High School
• Iowa: John Daniels, Belle Plaine High School
• Kansas: John Kern, Washington County High School
• Missouri: Josh Bondy, Paris High School
• Nebraska: Stephanie Mann, Crofton High School
• New York: Chris Kelly, Greenwich Central School
• Ohio:  Dena Wuebker, Versailles High School
• Pennsylvania: Holly Oberholtzer, Lampeter Strasburg High School  
• South Dakota: Tara Fastert, Harrisburg High School

Illinois, Iowa and Missouri also recognize postsecondary ag educators in a separate award category. The winners include:

• Illinois: Bill Harmon, postsecondary, Lincoln Land Community College
• Iowa: Amber Greiman, postsecondary, Hawkeye Community College
• Missouri: Brad Driskill, postsecondary, State Fair Community College

Nationwide partnered with state FFA organizations to create the Golden Owl Award in 2018 to highlight the growing importance of educators and recognize the services of the country’s leading agricultural teachers. The program provides funding to help support the teachers’ agricultural programs and elevate the learning opportunities for their students.

As grand prize winners, the teachers earn the title of their state’s Ag Educator of the Year, the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy, and $3,000 in funding to help bring new opportunities to their programs. Each finalist was also recognized in front of their school and awarded with $500 for their program.¹

“These outstanding agricultural educators exemplify passion and devotion to shaping the future of their communities,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “Their tireless efforts inspire the next generation of agriculture leaders, and we’re proud to recognize their invaluable contributions as Ag Educators of the Year.”

In conjunction with the Golden Owl Award, Nationwide is also donating $5,000 to each participating state’s FFA organization to further support the personal and professional growth of students, teachers and advisors alike.

¹ In accordance with Ohio law, cash prizes in Ohio are awarded to the winner’s school ag program. Because of additional funding by Farm Credit Mid-America and AgCredit, each Ohio finalist’s school ag program receives an additional $1,000, while the school ag program of the Ohio Ag Educator of the Year receives an additional $2,000.

Nationwide partnered with state FFA organizations to create the Golden Owl Award in 2018 to highlight the growing importance of educators and recognize the services of the country’s leading agricultural teachers. The program provides funding to help support the teachers’ agricultural programs and elevate the learning opportunities for their students.

The 2023-2024 Golden Owl Award finalists are:

California:

• Daniel Crookham, Exeter High School
• Deanna Morton, Shandon High School
• Marlisa Nordstrom, Buena Park High School
• Randy Mendes, St. Helena High School
• Rebecca Freeman, Lodi-Tokay High School
• Rick Neugebauer, McArthur-Fall River High School

Illinois

• Bill Harmon, Lincoln Land Community College
• Joe Steffen, Newark High School
• Justin Howard, Georgetown-Ridge Farm High School
• Mark Steber, Olney High School
• Rodney Main, ROWVA High School 
• Steve Sargeant, Bushnell Prairie City High School

Indiana

• Amanda Line, South Putnam High School
• Brianna Lammers, Jasper High School
• Erin Gilley, Southmont High School
• Hank Carson, Orleans High School
• McCord Snider, East Central High School
• Ron Noll, Prairie Heights High School
• Shelby Wolford, Owen Valley High School
• ZoeAnn Chernowsky, Blue River Valley High School

Iowa

• Amber Greiman, Hawkeye Community College
• Ashley Wolfe, Grinnell High School
• Barb Lemmer, Linn-Mar High School
• Carlton Ness, South Hamilton High School
• Casey Allen, Lenox High School
• John Daniels, Belle Plaine High School
• Matthew Schroeder, Estherville High School

Kansas

• Jim Morgan, Louisburg High School
• John Kern, Washington County High School
• John Wells, Sedan High School
• Kim Clark, Royal Valley High School
• Les McNally, Hugoton High School
• Linda Chase, Wellington High School
• Nikole Winter, Hays High School

Missouri

• Amy Holder, Gallatin High School
• Ashley Brown, Bolivar High School
• Brad Driskill, State Fair Community College
• Jason Dieckhoff, Cass Career Center
• Josh Bondy, Paris High School
• Rich Thomas, Oak Ridge High School
• Sherry Byram, Owensville High School

Nebraska

• Abby Hitchler - Boone Central High School
• Boyd Bowder - St. Paul High School
• Dana Hall - McCool Junction High School
• David Gibbens - West Holt High School
• Doug Babbitt - Perkins County High School
• Stephanie Mann - Crofton High School

New York

• Andrea Elward, Prattsburgh Central School
• Cathleen Reeder, Afton Junior/Senior High School
• Chris Kelly, Greenwich Central School
• Halee Wasson, Southern Cayuga Jr/Sr High School
• Jeffrey Parnapy, Byron-Bergen Jr/Sr High School
• Jen Phelps, Carthage Senior High School
• Julia Hudyncia Davis, Oppenheim-Ephratah-St. Johnsville Junior/Senior High School
• Katherine Keymel, Wilson Tech BOCES
• Katie Mitrowski, Cattaraugus Little Valley High School
• Tara Burke, Tri-Valley Secondary School

Ohio

• Caleb Hickman, Utica High School
• Chyann Kendel, Talawanda-Butler Tech High School
• Dena Wuebker, Versailles High School
• Jessie Schulze, Delta High School
• Julie Stawowy, Old Fort High School
• Rob Brokaw, New Lexington High School
• Tod Fox, Ashland High School
• Tom Jolliff, North Union High School
• Tom Mazzaro, Pymatuning Valley High School
• Tyler Lones, Sheridan High School

Pennsylvania

• Brandon Witmer, Otto Eldred High School
• Holly Oberholtzer, Lampeter Strasburg High School
• Joanna McKelvey, Wilmington Area High School
• Mikara Anderson, Southern Huntingdon County High School

South Dakota  

• Austin Bishop, Belle Fourche High School
• Brady Duxbury, Wessington Springs High School
• Clayton Sorum, Tea Area High School
• Fred Zenk, Webster High School
• Josh Johnson, Brookings High School
• Renae Gebhart, Lemmon High School
• Tara Fastert, Harrisburg High School
• Terry Rieckman, McCook Central High School

Each finalist was presented with an individualized plaque in front of fellow teachers and students and received a $500 donation to help fund future educational efforts for their programs. Finalists now have a chance to be crowned as their state’s Ag Educator of the Year, earning an additional $3,000 contribution to help boost their program and the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy.¹

“As the need grows for more ag educators across the nation, we are proud to thank and honor these hardworking agricultural teachers for their dedication,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “These educators play a crucial role in preparing students for successful careers in the industry.”

Nationwide supports the future of the agriculture community through meaningful sponsorships of national and local organizations. In conjunction with the Golden Owl Award, Nationwide is donating $5,000 to each participating state’s FFA organization to further support the personal and professional growth of students, teachers and advisors alike.  

To learn more about the Golden Owl Award, visit www.GoldenOwlAward.com. 

¹In accordance with Ohio law, cash prizes in Ohio are awarded to the winner’s school ag program. Because of additional funding by Farm Credit Mid-America and AgCredit, each Ohio finalist’s school ag program receives an additional $1,000, while the school ag program of the Ohio Ag Educator of the Year receives an additional $2,000.

Established in 2011, with more than 30 years of firefighting experience, EnforcerOne provides next-level firefighting solutions for emergency scenarios in industries ranging from agriculture to motorsports. The company’s highly portable Compressed Air Foam Systems (CAFS) can quickly and efficiently extinguish fires with minimal water and utilizes GreenScreen Certified™ non-hazardous, non-toxic, fluorine- and PFAS-free FIREBULL firefighting foam.

Nationwide’s agriculture insurance customers can now receive a 20% discount on the following EnforcerOne and FIREBULL products:

• FIREBULL Easy One-Touch Fire Extinguisher 23.80z – a 1:B rated personal fire extinguisher designed for easy application and extinguishment of fire outdoors and around the house using a signature firefighting foam.
• FIREBULL AB - UL Classified firefighting concentrate for use in Enforcer systems and other brand firefighting equipment to suppress Class A fires (brush, wood, hay, etc) as well as Class B fires (flammable liquids and fuels). Also available in a freeze-protected premix to -40C.
• Enforcer AIR 3 – an extremely versatile and portable, three-gallon firefighting system that utilizes high energy compressed foam technology with a dedicated refillable air tank.
• Enforcer 10 – a versatile, but heavy duty 10-gallon portable firefighting system that utilizes high energy compressed air foam technology to produce 200 gallons of finished firefighting foam. UL 711 20: B certified.

The power of EnforcerOne’s fire suppression systems is evident in a recent case involving a Montana farmer. His son recounts, “My father was out in the fields baling hay when a fire broke out behind him and quickly spread to the baler. He remained calm and immediately put his Enforcer 10 in service to extinguish the baler fire and create a safezone to evacuate the equipment. He’d never operated the CAFS device before; I’d just explained it to him once. Without EnforcerOne, we could have had a devastating outcome.”

“Fires continue to be a leading cause of dangerous and costly accidents on farms, but they can often be prevented with simple and affordable measures,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “Our partnership with EnforcerOne further strengthens Nationwide’s commitment to safety and prevention for our customers, adding these state-of-the-art fire suppression devices to our array of tools and resources they can leverage to safeguard their operations, equipment and livelihoods.”

This partnership adds to Nationwide’s suite of fire prevention solutions and resources available to agriculture customers and agents, which includes HAYTECH hay bale monitors, PrevTech electrical monitoring systems, Teledyne FLIR thermal imaging cameras.

“EnforcerOne is proud to partner with Nationwide to protect lives, livestock, and property by reducing accidental and costly agriculture fires. Equipment fires lead to expensive repairs and production downtime, while crop fires impact customers’ ability to produce and deliver during the most important time of the year,” said Ron Thames, president of EnforcerOne and developer of Enforcer CAFS and FIREBULL Fluorine Free products.  “EnforcerOne has a years-long history of providing unique fire suppression offerings for fire departments but this partnership places easy-to-use firefighting equipment directly in the hands of customers to quickly extinguish fires in their incipient stage, which minimizes fire department responses to agriculture fires and allows agriculture customers to get back to work safely and quickly.”

Visit EnforcerOne.com to learn more about how to incorporate EnforcerOne solutions into your operation.

About EnforcerOne
EnforcerOne, LLC. was established in 2011 and is the US-based manufacturer of superior performance Enforcer® Brand Compressed Air Foam Systems and FIREBULL® Brand Fluorine Free Foam Concentrates and Wetting Agents. Based in Peachtree City, GA, EnforcerOne offers over 30 years of combined experience and expertise in manufacturing firefighting equipment and foam concentrates. EnforcerOne serves customers globally across multiple industries including Firefighting, Agriculture, Mining, Oil & Gas, Power Generation, Motorsports, Film and Television, and Consumer Safety. For more information visit www.enforcerone.com or follow us on social media on Facebook.

Enforcer and FIREBULL are registered trademarks of Enforcer One, LLC.

GreenScreen Certified is a registered trademark of Clean Production Action.

Startling Facts: Injuries & Fatalities from grain bins*

• In 2022, at least 42 grain entrapments were reported, the highest number of entrapments in a decade (a 44.8% increase from 2021). There were 15 fatalities.
• In four seconds, an adult can sink knee-deep in flowing grain and be rendered unable to free themselves without assistance. In just 20 seconds, an adult can be fully engulfed.
• Suffocation from engulfment or oxygen-deficient atmospheres is the leading cause of death in grain accidents.
• More than 300 grain entrapments have been recorded in the past decade. It’s estimated an additional 30% of cases go unreported.

“Grain bins pose very serious dangers to workers as entrapments can escalate quickly and are life threatening if proper safety procedures aren’t followed when working in or around them,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “For over a decade, Nationwide has been a leader in the fight to correct this industry issue, and while we’re incredibly proud of the efforts and the many partners who’ve made them possible, there is more work to be done.” 

Grain Bin Safety Week continues to make an impact: February 18-24, 2024
Nationwide initiated its annual Grain Bin Safety campaign in 2014 to raise awareness of the dangers of working in grain bins and promote a zero-entry mentality. Grain Bin Safety Week, which takes place Feb. 18-24, 2024, brings a national spotlight to the issue each year.

A key component of Grain Bin Safety Week is the annual Nominate Your Fire Department Contest, which aims to supply fire departments across rural America with the specialized rescue training and equipment needed to respond if an entrapment occurs.

The Nominate Your Fire Department Contest is now open until April 30, 2024. 
Learn how to nominate your local fire department here.

Since 2014, Nationwide and partners have awarded 332 grain rescue tubes to first responders across 32 states – eclipsing over $1 million in resources provided. At least ten successful rescues have utilized these resources, including the recent rescues in Arkansas and Indiana.  

Nationwide collaborates each year with the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS) to deliver the rescue equipment and provide safety training.

“Time is of the essence when responding to these accidents and rural fire departments are often the only line of defense when an entrapment takes place in their region,” said Dan Neenan, director at NECAS. “It’s critically important to ensure these first responders not only have the specialized rescue equipment, but also the training needed to respond effectively. NECAS is proud to join Nationwide and its partners to make a difference.”  

For more information about the program, nomination process or how you can get involved, visit www.GrainBinSafetyWeek.com. 

Grain Bin Safety Week is made possible by the following generous partners:

• KC Supply 
• NECAS 
• Nationwide Agribusiness 
• IN Corn Marketing 
• Maryland Grain Producers 
• Horizon Farm Credit 
• Specialty Risk 
• Lutz Agency 
• Sponsor Relations 
• Delaware Soybean Board 
• Maryland Soybean Board 
• CHS 
• ProValue Insurance 
• Valley View Agri-Systems 
• OPI 
• Nutrien 
• Delaware Farm Bureau
• GROWMARK 
• Gregerson Salvage 
• West Side Salvage 
• Kelly Jones Agency 
• Eclipse Insurance Agency, LLC 
• Ohio Farm Bureau 
• New York Farm Bureau
• Maryland Farm Bureau
• Pennsylvania Farm Bureau
• Assured Partners 
• Gallagher 
• Sump Saver 
• NOHR Wortmann Engineering 
• IRMI

In partnership with the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS), Nationwide and its partners have now supplied grain rescue equipment and training to 332 first responders across 32 states to help prepare them when local grain entrapments occur.

After receiving thousands of nominations in the 2023 Nominate Your Fire Department Contest, an annual component of Nationwide’s Grain Bin Safety advocacy campaign, the insurer and its partners are proud to have awarded grain rescue tubes and training to the following 60 fire departments this year:

1. A.B Shaw Fire Company, Claverack, NY 
2. Altamont Fire Protection District, Altamont, IL 
3. Ann Arundel County Fire & EMS Department, Millersville, MD 
4. Asbury Fire Protection District, Asbury, MO 
5. Bowman Rural Fire Department, Bowman, ND 
6. Burnett Fire Department, Burnett, WI 
7. Center Point Fire Department, Center Point, IA 
8. Chalybeate Volunteer Fire Department, Smiths Grove, KY 
9. Chase City Volunteer Fire Department, Chase City, VA 
10. Clarksburg Volunteer Fire Department, Clarksburg, IN 
11. Cobb Island Volunteer Fire & EMS Department, Cobb Island, MD 
12. Columbia/Adair County Volunteer Fire Department, Columbia, KY 
13. Conover Fire Department, Conover, NC 
14. Delmar Volunteer Fire Department, Delmar, DE 
15. District 2 Joint Volunteer Department, Crown City, OH 
16. Dunreith Volunteer Fire Department, Dunreith, IN 
17. Easton Volunteer Fire Department, Easton, MD 
18. Easton Volunteer Fire & Rescue, Easton, NY 
19. Fayette Fire Department, Seneca Falls, NY 
20. Fellows Club Volunteer Fire Department, Conneautville, PA 
21. Guntersville Volunteer Fire, Guntersville, AL 
22. Harrison Township Volunteer Fire Department, Monroe City, IN 
23. Hereford Volunteer Fire Company, Monkton, MD 
24. Hudson Volunteer Fire & Rescue, Hudson, IA 
25. Juniata Rural Fire, Juniata, NE 
26. Labette County Fire District #9, Parsons, KS 
27. Lakeville Fire Department, La Paz, IN 
28. LaPaz North Volunteer Fire Department, La Paz, IN 
29. Laytonsville District Volunteer Fire Department, Laytonsville, MD 
30. Lepanto Fire & Rescue, Lepanto, AR 
31. Linkwood-Salem Volunteer Fire Company, Linkwood, MD 
32. Longford Rural Fire District, Longford, KS 
33. Macomb Fire Department, Macomb, IL 
34. Mahantango Fire Department, Pitman, PA 
35. Marion Fire Department, Marion, MD 
36. Milton Fire Company, Milton, DE 
37. Minatare/Melbeta Fire Department, Minitare, NE 
38. Minden Volunteer Fire & Rescue, Minden, IA 
39. New Washington Volunteer Fire Department, New Washington, IN 
40. North Liberty Fire Department, North Liberty, IA 
41. Oakland Volunteer Fire Department, Oakland, MD 
42. Overisel Township Fire Department, Holland, MI 
43. Oxford Fire Department, Oxford, NC 
44. Perry County EMA Fire & Rescue – North Station, Leopold, IN 
45. Perry County EMA Fire & Rescue – South Station, Tell City, IN 
46. Poland Volunteer Fire Department, Poland, IN 
47. Pukwana Fire Department, Pukwana, SD 
48. Redding Township Volunteer Fire Department, Seymore, IN 
49. Reisterstown Fire Department, Reisterstown, MD 
50. Renville Fire Department, Renville, MN 
51. Ridgebury Fire Department, Gillett, PA 
52. Rutland Fire Department, Rutland, ND 
53. Singerly Fire Company, Elkton, MD 
54. Southern Area Fire & Emergency Rescue, Dallastown, PA 
55. Sugarcreek Township Fire Department, Dayton, OH 
56. Townsend Fire Company, Townsend, DE 
57. Valley Springs Fire, Valley Springs, SD 
58. Waterloo Fire Department, Waterloo, IL 
59. Wilson Township Volunteer Fire Department, Winona, MN 
60. Wyalusing Fire Department, Wyalusing, PA 
61. Bridgeville Volunteer Fire Company, Bridgeville, DE – re-training 
62. Funkstown Volunteer Fire Company, Funkstown, MD – re-training 
63. Guthrie Center Fire Department, Guthrie Center, IA – re-training 
64. Huntington County Fire Department, Huntington, IN – re-training 
65. Muncie Convention Center, Muncie, IN – re-training 
66. NY Corn & Soybean Expo, Seneca Falls, NY – re-training 

“Grain bin accidents continue to be a critical issue facing the agriculture industry,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “We are proud to have supplied these important resources to 60 more rural fire departments in partnership with the many sponsors involved in our grain bin safety efforts. However, the work will not be complete until we can put a stop to these needless accidents altogether. Thank you to the first responders who play such an important role in supporting the agriculture community.”

NECAS, based out of Peosta, IA, delivered the rescue tubes and training to 60 fire departments and conducted re-training for six additional fire departments throughout 2023, traveling to each location with state-of-the-art grain entrapment simulators. The comprehensive training sessions included classroom education and rescue simulations using the entrapment tools, which are loaded onto 20-foot trailers and able to hold about 100 bushels of grain each. 

Since beginning the Grain Bin Safety campaign in 2014, at least seven fire departments have utilized their rescue tubes and training to successfully rescue entrapped individuals, including a recent Ohio rescue of a worker trapped up to his armpits in March 2023.

“With entrapments and accidents on the rise, it’s as important as ever to be following proper safety precautions before entering a bin,” said Liggett. “Visit our Grain Bin Safety page to find educational resources and tools to help maintain grain quality and prevent accidents. Thank you to our generous partners who have supported this cause.”

Nationwide is continuing to work with partners throughout the year to provide additional grain rescue tubes and training sessions to fire departments in need. To learn how to get involved or sponsor a rescue tube for your local fire department, visit the Partner With Us webpage.
 

The program is supported by Nationwide, NECAS and the following generous partners:

1. KC Supply, Indiana Corn Marketing Council, Maryland Soy Board, Horizon Farm Credit, Maryland Grain Producers, Specialty Risk Insurance, Lutz Agency Inc., Bradford County Commissioners, Delaware Soybean Board, ProValue Insurance LLC, CHS, New York Farm Bureau, Perry County Farm Bureau, West Side Salvage, Delaware Farm Bureau, Kelly Jones Insurance Agency, Gary Thompson Agency, Gregerson Salvage, Inc., GROWMARK, Farm Creek Insurance, The Pegram Agency, Washington County Soil & Water District, HTS Ag, Maryland Farm Bureau, Ohio Farm Bureau, Sandy Oakley & Family, Gallagher, ABIS/Assured Partners, Sump Saver, NOHR Wortmann Engineering, IRMI, D. Larson Financial & Insurance Services.

¹Source: 2022 Summary of U.S. Agricultural Confined Space-Related Injuries and Fatalities (May 2023)

Agriculture educators play a vital role within their communities by investing countless hours to prepare and empower students for successful careers. To honor their contributions and award them with additional resources, each participating state’s FFA organization, with the support of Nationwide and other partners, are now accepting nominations for the 2023-2024 Golden Owl Award. The award recognizes leading agricultural teachers across 11 states: California, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and South Dakota. 

To nominate an ag teacher for the 2023-2024 Golden Owl Award, visit www.GoldenOwlAward.com. 

Following the state’s nomination period for 2023-2024, a selection committee will determine each state’s finalists, who will receive an individualized plaque and $500 to support their agriculture programs. One grand prize winner in each state will then be selected to win the Ag Educator of the Year title for their state, the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy, and an additional $3,000 Nationwide-funded check.²

Nationwide initiated the Golden Owl Award in 2018. After recognizing 64 outstanding ag teachers in 2022-2023, including nine Ag Educators of the Year, the award program has expanded to include Kansas and Missouri. 

“The Golden Owl Award seeks to thank agricultural teachers for the extraordinary care they bring to their work as they go above and beyond in educating America’s youth and future leaders,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “We encourage students, parents, fellow teachers and others to nominate their beloved agricultural teachers to acknowledge their hard work.”

Nationwide supports the future of the agriculture community through meaningful sponsorships of national and local organizations. In conjunction with the Golden Owl Award, Nationwide is donating $5,000 to each participating state’s FFA organization to further support the personal and professional growth of students, teachers and advisors alike.  

To learn more or nominate an ag teacher for the 2023-2024 Golden Owl Award, visit www.GoldenOwlAward.com. 

¹ California Golden Owl nomination period is Sept. 1 – Jan. 16, 2024. Illinois Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 1 – Nov. 15, 2023. Indiana Golden Owl Award nomination period is Nov. 1 – Dec. 31, 2023. Iowa Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 1 – Dec. 1, 2023. Kansas Golden Owl Award nomination period is Oct. 1 – Dec. 31, 2023. Missouri Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 20 – Dec. 31, 2023. Nebraska Golden Owl Award nomination period is Oct. 1 – Dec. 31, 2023. New York Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 1 – Nov. 15, 2023. Ohio Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2023. Pennsylvania Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2023. South Dakota nomination period is Oct. 1 – Dec. 31, 2023. 

² Ohio finalists will receive a personalized plaque and $1,500 to fund their programs. Ohio’s Ag Educator of the Year title will receive the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy and an additional $5,000 to help fund future educational efforts for their program. Ohio’s partners, Farm Credit Mid-America and AgCredit, provided funding for the increase in prize money. In accordance with Ohio law, cash prizes in Ohio are awarded to the winner’s school ag program.

“As a protection company, we’re regularly exploring new ways to offer enhanced protection and peace of mind for our customers. Electrical failures can lead to detrimental impacts for a farm or commercial agribusiness, but more than two-thirds of failures can be prevented by having a routine preventive maintenance program in place¹,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “We’re proud to be the first U.S. insurer to team up with these innovative companies to get their solutions directly into the hands of our customers and partners to help better protect their businesses and livelihoods.”

Teledyne FLIR thermal imaging cameras allow customers to see what’s truly going on with mechanical equipment, electrical boards/panels, insulation, and more, and identify problems before they interrupt business flow. By visualizing heat as an image with measurable temperatures, FLIR’s thermal cameras can help save you money with ongoing preventative maintenance and loss prevention, serve as an integral part of assessing downed equipment, or provide insight on how to correct faulty machinery or wiring. Nationwide’s customers and partners can now access Teledyne FLIR’s range of FLIR thermal imaging devices at a discount. Learn more here.

The PrevTech solution provides real-time electrical monitoring, fault detection and diagnostic services to reduce the risk of fire and operational interruptions. PrevTech’s monitoring services are delivered by a team of technical experts that proactively connects with clients and guides them in the diagnostic and risk mitigation process. Thus, providing peace of mind to business operators. The solution can be adapted to any operation’s needs, no matter the size or type. Visit PrevTech’s site to learn how Nationwide’s agriculture customers can benefit from exclusive preferred pricing.

These new partnerships add to a robust suite of protection solutions Nationwide has made available at preferred pricing to its customers, including HAYTECH bale monitoring probes and Razor Tracking’s fleet management solutions.

“We envision a future where technology and insurance harmonize to shape unparalleled solutions for our customers,” said Maria Cambria, global vice president of marketing at Teledyne FLIR. “This collaboration between Nationwide and Teledyne FLIR represents a commitment to unlocking untapped potential and propelling growth.”

With a shared goal of making farmers more resilient, PrevTech Innovations president and founder, Pierre-Andre Meunier, said the partnership is unique. “Together, we will nurture the direct relationships with farmers by helping them better address electrical hazards, guide them towards risk management best practices, and build a safe, reliable and prosperous future,” he added.

Visit Teledyne FLIR or PrevTech to learn more about how you can incorporate these capabilities into your operation or service offerings for clients.

¹ Recommended practice for electrical preventative maintenance, HSB

In her sophomore year, she found Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences (MANRRS) at a school career fair.

“I quickly realized the development and learning opportunities they offered were something I could put in my back pocket to help with my future career,” said Peer. “Once I joined MANRRS, I knew I’d found my passion and looked forward to getting more involved.”

Peer became a leader with MANRRS and attended the 2022 MANRRS conference during her senior year.

“Our school’s career fairs didn’t really highlight opportunities in agriculture, but the MANRRS conference brings together hundreds of organizations looking for agriculture students and opens up so many doors and opportunities,” she said.

She interviewed with Nationwide at the conference and made a strong impression. In July 2022, she was hired as a farm underwriter, serving farm-focused insurance agencies across Texas.

Driving the industry forward
Agriculture and natural resources are vital to our society, but the industries face great challenges with bringing in young talent to replace an aging workforce. Minorities also face high barriers to entry due to limited access and funding.

To address these hurdles, Nationwide teamed up with MANRRS to help build skills in the next generation of ag leaders. MANRRS offers a detailed training program, the MANRRS Professional Development Institute, to provide participants with a good understanding of the industry and the skills needed for success.

“Nationwide has long supported agriculture education with programs like the Golden Owl Award® and our partnership with the National 4-H Council,” said Brad Liggett, president of Nationwide Agribusiness. “This alliance with MANRRS takes that commitment to a new level and marks our largest investment in a student ag organization.”

Sponsoring the next generation
As a sponsor of MANRRS, Nationwide is helping to create a long-term plan to develop and recruit the next generation of diverse leaders and serve as a welcoming employer as they enter the workforce.

“Sponsorship support allows MANRRS to continue to grow our footprint across the agriculture world,” said Dr. Marcus Bernard, president of MANNRS. “We are grateful for the many sponsors we have and appreciate when they turn into true partners, like Nationwide has. Partnerships provide for a greater impact and help us tell our story and continue to move MANRRS forward.”

Peer was excited to attend the 2023 MANRRS conference this year, this time as a Nationwide associate and MANNRS graduate. She spoke at the event about the insurance industry and internship opportunities.

“If you would’ve told me a year ago I’d be in insurance, I probably would’ve been shocked, but I think everything happens for a reason,” she said. “Nationwide has been like a family for me. Everybody has taken me in and I couldn’t ask for a better employer to start my career with. I hope to go far into the distance with Nationwide.”

Visit the Ag Insight Center to learn more about how MANRRS is helping drive the agriculture industry forward. 

Nationwide partnered with state FFA organizations to create the Golden Owl Award in 2018 to highlight the growing importance of educators and recognize the services of many of the country’s leading agricultural teachers. The program also supplies funding to help boost the teachers’ agricultural programs and boost learning experiences for their students.

Nationwide recently worked with partners in California, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and South Dakota to collect more than 2,900 nominations from students, parents and community members to identify over 900 educators who go above-and-beyond in making a difference for their students.

The 2022-2023 Golden Owl Award finalists are:

California

• Celeste Morino, Ripon High School
• Beth Swehla, Boonville-Anderson Valley FFA Chapter
• Jason Ferreira, Hanford High School
• Lauren Peterson, King City High School
• Brian Kim, Fullerton-Sunny Hills FFA Chapter
• Emily Brown, Corning Union High School

Illinois

• Trent Taber, Cambridge High School
• Riley Hintzsche, Streator High School
• Jody Heavner, Pittsfield High School
• Cassie Crouch, Maroa-Forsyth High School
• Tamra Gerstenecker, Carlyle High School

Indiana

• Michael Appleton, Lewis Cass High School
• Myia Bromm, South Knox High School
• Leah Henderson, DeKalb High School
• Duane Huge, Danville High School
• Michael Jones, Adams Central High School
• Adam Miller, Fountain Central High School
• Michael Shirey, Heritage High School
• McCord Snider, East Central Middle School

Iowa

• Debbie Barkela, Belmond-Klemme Community School
• Scott Smalley, Iowa State University
• Emily Kruse, North Scott Community School District
• Jim Russ, New Hampton Community Schools
• Matt Debrick, West Sioux Community School District
• Kevin Blair, Orient-Macksburg Community Schools
• Rosa Sondag, Central Decatur Community School District

Nebraska

• Robyn Graham - Humphrey Public Schools
• Amanda Hafer - Lutheran High Northeast
• Brent Nollette - Valentine Community Schools
• Chad Schimmels - Eustis-Farman Public Schools
• Ashtyn Vivion – Alliance High School
• Randy Vlaslin - Hayes Center Public Schools

New York

• Phil Dickler, John Bowne High School
• Deb Fletcher, Cobleskill Richmondville Central School
• Chris Kelly, Greenwich Central School
• Vanessa Merrill, Walton Central School
• Erin Smith, Stockbridge Valley Central School
• Tedra Bean, Belleville Henderson Central School
• MiKayla Gates, Cincinnatus Central School
• Carlie Bossard, Penn Yan Academy
• Matthew Sweeney, Royalton-Hartland Central School
• Katie Mitrowski, Cattaraugus-Little Valley Central School

Ohio

• Krysteena Lawrence, Elmwood High School
• Jeffrey Karcher, Bellevue High School
• Heather Tegtmeier, Northwestern High School
• Donald Barnhart, Leipsic High School
• Erynn Hayes, Trotwood-Madison High School
• Jeffrey Stimmel, Big Walnut High School
• Judd Baker, Fairfield Union High School
• Kayla Richter, Monroe Central High School
• Kelly Rickabaugh, Greene County Career Center
• Katherine Dickson, Gallia Academy High School

Pennsylvania:

• Allyson Balmer, Tulpehocken FFA
• Kayle Pohle, Honesdale FFA
• Michael Clark, Greenwood FFA
• Jerry Hughes, Penns Manor FFA

South Dakota:

• Jim Chilson, Florence School District
• Kelly Keller, Arlington High School
• Bridget Twedt, Beresford High School
• Mark Misar, Bon Homme High School
• Tanna White, Hot Springs School District
• Noelle Swanson, Northwestern Area School District
• Andrew Jensen, Sioux Falls CTE Academy

Each finalist was presented with an individualized plaque in front of fellow teachers and students and received a $500 donation to help fund future educational efforts for their programs. Now, they’ll be entered into a final selection stage for the chance to be crowned as their state’s Ag Educator of the Year, earning an additional $3,000 contribution to help boost their program and the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy.²

“The Golden Owl Award seeks to recognize agricultural teachers for the inspiring devotion they bring to their work as they educate America’s future leaders,” said Nationwide’s agribusiness president, Brad Liggett. “We are proud to honor their contributions, highlight the growing need for their services, and supply additional resources to help benefit their students.”

In conjunction with the Golden Owl Award, Nationwide is also donating $5,000 to each participating state’s FFA organization to further support the personal and professional growth of students, teachers and advisors alike. 

The Golden Owl Award is the result of partnerships between Nationwide, the California FFA, California Farm Bureau, Illinois FFA, Illinois Association of Vocational Agriculture Teachers, Farm Credit Illinois, AgCredit, Indiana FFA, Farm Credit Mid-America, Iowa FFA Foundation, Nebraska Agricultural Educators Association, Nebraska FFA Foundation, New York FFA, New York Farm Bureau, Ohio FFA, Ohio Farm Bureau, Pennsylvania FFA, Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, Compeer Financial and South Dakota FFA Foundation.

¹ Source: A.M. Best Market Share Report 2022
² In Ohio, all Golden Owl Award funding is contributed directly to the school to benefit the agriculture programs.

During the 2022 Iowa State Fair, Nationwide sponsored the second annual Food Bank of Iowa Chopped – Hot Dish Edition cooking competition. Participants showcased their best recipes using ingredients easily found in local food pantries. The winning recipes from this year’s contest and last year’s competition are now available in the “2022 Chopped – Hot Dish Edition Cookbook” which is free for anyone to download, enjoy and share. 

“Raising awareness comes in many forms and we’ll continue to look for creative ways to help,” says Brad Liggett, president of Nationwide Agribusiness and a member of the board of directors at Food Bank of Iowa and guest judge for the cooking competition. “Whether it’s volunteering at the food pantry, talking about hunger issues, trying a new recipe or sharing the cookbook with someone who might need or enjoy it, we can all take part in raising broader awareness of the difficulties many families face in obtaining nutritious food.” 

In 2022, the Food Bank of Iowa served 568,717 households and 1.5 million individuals.

“It’s incredibly rewarding for Nationwide to partner with local organizations like Food Bank of Iowa to help provide nutritious meals to hundreds of thousands of families throughout the year,” says Liggett. 

For more information on how to donate to the Food Bank of Iowa, visit https://foodbankiowa.org/donate.

The Startling Facts: Injuries & Fatalities from grain bins

• In four seconds, an adult can sink knee-deep in flowing grain and be rendered unable to free themselves without assistance. In just 20 seconds, an adult can be fully engulfed.
• Suffocation from engulfment or oxygen-deficient atmospheres is the leading cause of death in grain accidents.
•  In 2021, at least 29 grain entrapments were reported, resulting in 11 fatalities.
• More than 300 grain entrapments have been recorded in the past decade. It’s estimated an additional 30% of cases go unreported.

Sources: Summary of U.S. Agricultural Confined Space-Related Injuries and Fatalities

“Every year, grain bin accidents lead to countless injuries or deaths and it is everyone’s responsibility to take proactive measures to prevent these tragedies from happening,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “For a decade, Nationwide has been a leader in the fight to correct this industry issue, and while we’re incredibly proud of the efforts and the many partners who’ve made them possible, there is more work to be done.” 

A decade of progress: Grain Bin Safety Week is making an impact
Nationwide initiated its annual Grain Bin Safety campaign in 2014 to raise awareness of the dangers of working in grain bins and promote a zero-entry mentality. Grain Bin Safety Week, which takes place Feb. 19-25, 2023, brings a national spotlight to the issue each year. A key component of Grain Bin Safety Week is the annual Nominate Your Fire Department Contest, which aims to supply fire departments across rural America with the specialized rescue training and equipment needed to respond if an entrapment occurs. The Nominate Your Fire Department Contest is now open until April 30, 2023. Learn how to nominate your local fire department here.

Since 2014, Nationwide and partners have awarded 272 grain rescue tubes to first responders across 31 states – eclipsing more than $1 million in resources provided. At least six successful rescues have utilized these resources, including a recent rescue in Sussex County, Delaware.

Nationwide collaborates each year with the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS) to deliver the rescue equipment and provide safety training. NECAS instructors travel to training locations with state-of-the-art grain entrapment simulators, which are loaded onto 20-foot trailers and able to hold about 100 bushels of grain each. The comprehensive training sessions include classroom education and rescue simulations.

“Rural fire departments are often the only line of defense when an entrapment takes place in their region and time is of the essence when responding to these accidents,” said Dan Neenan, director at NECAS. “It’s critically important to ensure these first responders not only have the specialized rescue equipment, but also the training needed to respond effectively. NECAS is proud to join Nationwide and its partners to make a difference.” 

For more information about the program, nomination process or how you can get involved, visit www.GrainBinSafetyWeek.com.  

Grain Bin Safety Week is made possible by the following generous partners:

• KC Supply
• NECAS
• Nationwide Agribusiness
• IN Corn Marketing Council
• Horizon Farm Credit
• Maryland Grain Producers
• Specialty Risk
• Lutz Agency
• Maryland Soybean Board
• Bradford/Sullivan County Farm Bureau & Bradford County Commissioners
• ProValue Insurance
• Nationwide Sponsor Relations
• CHS
• West Side Salvage
• Delaware Farm Bureau
• Kelly Jones Insurance Agency
• Gary Thompson Agency
• Gregerson Salvage
• GROWMARK
• Farm Creek Insurance
• Gallagher
• ABIS/Assured Partners
• Maryland Farm Bureau
• Ohio Farm Bureau
• New York Farm Bureau
• Sump Saver
• NOHR Wortmann Engineering
• IRMI

All cash contributions help purchase grain bin tubes and/or training. All donations are managed through the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS), a 501(c)(3) non-profit.

For official rules, visit nationwide.com/GBSWContestRules

“FARM BUREAU” and the Farm Bureau mark are registered service marks of the American Farm Bureau Federation and used under license by Nationwide. Nationwide, Nationwide is on your side and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2022 Nationwide

Beginning today, Nationwide’s agribusiness customers have discounted access to HAYTECH, the wireless hay monitoring system. The new partnership marks the first time the HAYTECH technology, an IoT-based solution from Finnish AgTech company Quanturi, is available to customers in the U.S.

“As a company built to serve the agriculture community’s unique needs, we’re constantly exploring new ways to solve challenges facing our customers – whether they run a small hobby farm or a large commercial agribusiness,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “HAYTECH’s unique solution to the issue of hay fires in agriculture is a perfect example of the intersection of industry expertise and technology to provide even deeper protection and peace of mind for our customers. We’re thrilled for Nationwide customers to be among the first in the country to benefit from this new capability.”

To use HAYTECH, customers will install a series of easy-to-spot and long-lasting probes into their operation’s hay bales and stacks, which will regularly transmit temperature measurements to the Cloud and alert operators when concerns arise. Nationwide’s customers who utilize the monitoring system will benefit from:

• Secured hay production – HAYTECH warns producers of unusual temperature rises, enabling them to anticipate fire hazards and minimize the risk of losing haystacks and more. Operators can also use the intuitive interface to monitor their entire storage site regardless of the size of their production.
• Increased income by choosing hay quality –Temperature data allows customers to choose the right hay for the best use, helping to optimize the profitability of their haystacks.
• Reduced safety risks and labor costs – With remote access to all the data needed, the solution also helps to limit dangerous handling and work accidents.
• Simplified hay production certification – Better anticipate selling prices by proactively ensuring hay will meet the requirements of the labels and by bringing a guarantee of traceability to customers.

“We are excited to partner with Nationwide and provide farmers with innovative and best-in-class solutions to prevent hay fires and optimize the quality of hay during storage. Nationwide is a frontrunner in bringing new digital technologies to its customers and we believe that HAYTECH, our real-time hay monitoring will help leaders in Agtech make more data-driven decisions,” said Nadine Pesonen, CEO Quanturi.

To learn more about incorporating HAYTECH, the hay monitoring technology into your operation, contact your Nationwide agent or visit https://haytechsystem.com/nationwide/.

¹ Hay Fires: Prevention and Control, National Ag Safety Database

1. Ensure fire extinguishers and water caddies are readily available - Areas experiencing drought will typically be left with very dry vegetation in and around the fields. It’s important to make sure fire extinguishers and water caddies are charged and full at the start of the day. If possible, bring extra extinguishers and always keep an eye out for any embers or small fires.

2. Scout lodging crops - Drought stricken crops may have standability issues leading to lodging or bending over at the stems near ground level, making them very difficult to harvest and reducing yield.  Scout your fields carefully to identify harvest priorities and proceed through downed crops carefully.

3. Keep equipment clean - Dry crop residue can lead to extra dust and chaff. Dirty equipment can be dangerous as it leads to visibility and mechanical issues. It may be necessary to stop multiple times a day to ensure windows, reflectors, safety lights, and engine components are clean, clear, and functioning properly.

4. Turn off equipment on breaks - When you leave the combine to inspect field obstacles, plugs, or take breaks, make sure the combine is shifted into park, the head should be lowered to the ground, and the engine is shut off. Avoid leaving any equipment unattended while running – always shut off the engine.

5. Monitor crop quality - Monitor grain quality closely as harvest progresses. Keep an eye out for crops that did not reach physiological maturity, show indications of poor quality, and damage by insects or disease.   

“As grain condition, temperature and moisture content greatly affect grain storability, it’s also critical to keep a close eye on grain condition as it goes into storage bins,” said Liggett. “The industry must remain vigilant about proper grain handling and storage to continue to fend off grain accidents like entrapments and engulfments.”

Nationwide’s Grain Bin Safety efforts
Nationwide began its year-round Grain Bin Safety advocacy and education program in 2014 to combat accidents and equip fire departments with the proper safety resources needed to respond to entrapments.

Through the Nominate Your Fire Department Contest and partnerships with sponsors across the country, Nationwide has awarded life-saving grain rescue tubes and training to 272 fire departments across 31 states, including 65 rescue tubes in 2022. The 2023 Nominate Your Fire Department Contest will open for nominations on January 1, 2022.

At least five workers have been rescued using the equipment and training provided through the program.

For more educational materials or to learn more about Nationwide’s Grain Bin Safety advocacy initiative, visit thinkgrainbinsafety.com.

Nationwide’s Grain Bin Safety advocacy campaign is made possible by the following sponsors:

 CHS, Delaware Farm Bureau, Delaware Soybean Board, Horizon Farm Credit, Indiana Corn Marketing Council, KC Supply, Lutz Agency Inc, Maryland Grain Producers, Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotional Council, Nationwide, NECAS, ProValue Insurance, Scoular, Specialty Risk Insurance, Ashtabula County Farm Bureau, Mark Bruns Agency, AGI SureTrack, Gerber Insurance Agency, Gregerson Salvage Inc, GROWMARK, Jefferson County Farm Bureau, Kelly Jones Insurance Agency LLC, Maryland Soybean Board, Panichelle Insurance, Rugby Insurance Agency, Turtle Plastics, Valley Insurance Agency Alliance LLC, West Side Salvage, ABIS/Assured Partners, Armstrong County Farm Bureau, David Larson Financial and Insurance Services Inc, New York Farm Bureau, Gallagher, Heritage Insurance and Real Estate, Maryland Farm Bureau, Ohio Farm Bureau, Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, Pillar Insurance, TGIF Solutions, Colonial Farm Credit, IRMI, NOHR Wortmann Engineering, Sump Saver, Wiley Insurance Agency, St. Mary’s County Farm Bureau, Charles County Farm Bureau, Traer Fire Department

¹ Source: A.M. Best Market Share Report 2021
 

As the number one insurer of farms and ranches in the United States¹, Nationwide inaugurated the Golden Owl Award in 2018 by recognizing the contributions of Iowa and Ohio agricultural teachers and supplying additional resources to bolster their educational efforts. As a result of the positive response, the Golden Owl Award has since expanded to nine states and recently recognized the 2021-2022 grand prize winners and “Ag Educators of the Year” for each state. 

Following the current nomination period for 2022-2023, a selection committee will determine each state’s finalists, who will receive an individualized plaque and $500 to support their agriculture programs. One grand prize winner in each state will then be selected to win the Ag Educator of the Year title for their state, the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy, and an additional $3,000 Nationwide-funded check.²    

“We are proud to thank agricultural teachers for the extraordinary care they bring to their work as they go above and beyond in educating America’s youth and future leaders,” said Brad Liggett, Nationwide’s president of Agribusiness. “We’re thankful for the support of our state partners in these efforts to bring much-needed recognition to our teachers across the country.” 

Nationwide supports the future of the agriculture community through meaningful sponsorships of national and local organizations. In conjunction with the Golden Owl Award, Nationwide is donating $5,000 to each participating state’s FFA to further support the personal and professional growth of students, teachers and advisors alike.  

The Golden Owl Award is the result of partnerships between Nationwide, the California FFA, California Farm Bureau, Illinois FFA, Illinois Association of Vocational Agriculture Teachers, Farm Credit Illinois, Indiana FFA, Farm Credit Mid-America, the Iowa FFA Foundation, New York FFA, New York Farm Bureau, Ohio FFA, Ohio Farm Bureau, AgCredit, Pennsylvania FFA, Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, Compeer Financial, Nebraska FFA Foundation, Nebraska Agricultural Educators Association and South Dakota FFA Foundation.    

To learn more or nominate an ag teacher for the 2022-2023 Golden Owl Award, visit www.GoldenOwlAward.com.  

* California Golden Owl nomination period is Sept. 1 – Jan. 23, 2023. Illinois Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2022. Indiana Golden Owl Award nomination period is Nov. 1 – Dec. 31, 2022. Iowa Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 1 – Dec. 1, 2022. Nebraska Golden Owl Award nomination period is Oct. 1 – Dec. 31, 2022. New York Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 1 – Nov. 1, 2022. Ohio Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2022. Pennsylvania Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2022. South Dakota nomination period is Oct. 1 – Dec. 31, 2022.  

¹ Source: A.M. Best Market Share Report 2021 

² In accordance with Ohio law, cash prizes in Ohio are awarded to the winner’s school ag program 

• California: Elizabeth Ammon – Lassen High School, Susanville, CA
• Illinois: Kent Weber – Seneca High School, Seneca, IL
• Indiana: Blair Orme – Rushville High School, Rushville, IN
• Iowa: Micah Weber – Rock Valley Community School, Rock Valley, IA
• New York: Johanna Bossard – Hamilton Central School, Hamilton, NY
• Ohio: Barrett Zimmerman – Clyde High School, Clyde, OH
• Pennsylvania: Doug Brown – Central Columbia High School, Bloomsburg, PA 
   

As grand prize winners, the teachers earn the title of their state’s Ag Educator of the Year, the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy, and $3,000 in funding to help bring new opportunities to their programs. Each finalist was also recognized in front of their school and awarded with $500 for their program.¹

“These outstanding agricultural teachers play an essential role in their communities,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “We’re proud to work with our state partners to honor these dedicated educators who are preparing the next generation of industry leaders.” 

As the no. 1 insurer of farms and ranches in the U.S.², Nationwide established the Golden Owl Award to honor the contributions of teachers and support them with additional resources to assist their continued educational efforts.

In conjunction with the Golden Owl Award, Nationwide is also donating $5,000 to each participating state’s FFA organization to further support the personal and professional growth of students, teachers and advisors alike. 
 

¹ In Ohio, all Golden Owl Award funding is contributed directly to the school to benefit the agriculture programs.

² Source: A.M. Best Market Share Report 2021

In partnership with the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS), Nationwide is awarding 58 fire departments across the country with grain rescue tubes and hands-on training to prepare them to respond when local grain entrapments occur.

After receiving more than 1,800 nominations across 45 states in the annual Nominate Your Fire Department Contest, a key piece of Nationwide’s Grain Bin Safety advocacy campaign, the insurer and its partners are proud to award grain rescue tubes and training to the following 58 fire departments:

1.  Allegany County Special Operations, Cumberland, MD
2.  Argusville Fire Department, Argusville, ND 
3.  Ashley Fire Department, Ashley, IN
4.  Ashley Fire Protection District, Ashley, IL
5.  Atalissa Volunteer Fire Department, Atalissa, IA
6.  Baring Volunteer Fire Department, Baring, MO
7.  Bel Alton Volunteer Fire Department and EMS Co 10, Bel Alton, MD
8.  Bennet Rural Fire District, Bennet, NE
9.  Brandon Fire Department, Brandon, IA
10.  Carroll County Volunteer Emergency Services Association, Westminster, MD
11.  Central Ohio Joint Fire District, Centerburg, OH
12.  Clayton Fire Company, Clayton, DE
13.  Clear Spring Volunteer Fire Company, Clear Spring, MD
14.  Cordova Fire Protection District, Cordova, IL 
15.  Covington Fire & Rescue, Inc., Covington, OH
16.  Jefferson County Department of Emergency Services, Brookville, PA
17.  Dwight Rural Fire Department 6, Dwight, KS 
18.  Elderton District Volunteer Fire Company, Elderton, PA
19.  Fleetwood Volunteer Fire Company, Fleetwood, PA
20.  Genoa Fire Department, Genoa, NY
21.  Georgetown Fire Company, Inc.  Station 77, Georgetown, DE
22.  Hamlet Fire Department, Hamlet, IN
23.  Hebron Volunteer Fire Department, Hebron, MD
24.  Highland Pierron Fire Department, Pocahontas, IL 
25.  Hillsboro Fire and Rescue, Hillsboro, IA
26.  Huntingburg Fire Department, Huntingburg, IN
27.  Illiopolis Fire Protection District, Illiopolis, IL
28.  Jefferson Township Fire and Rescue, Richmond Dale, OH
29.  Kenockee Township Fire Department, Avoca, MI 
30.  Kinmundy-Alma Fire Department, Kinmundy, IL 
31.  Lake Andes Volunteer Fire Department, Lake Andes, SD
32.  Lawrence Volunteer Fire Department & Rescue Service, Lawrence, NE
33.  Leonardtown Volunteer Fire Department, Leonardtown, MD
34.  Mabel Fire and Rescue, Mabel, MN 
35.  Maeystown Fire Department, Maeystown, IL 
36.  Mechanicsville Volunteer Fire District, Mechanicsville, MD 
37.  Milo Rural Fire Department, Milo, MO
38.  Oakley Fire Department, Oakley, KS
39.  Ohiowa Rural Fire Department, Ohiowa, NE
40.  Ottawa County Rural Fire District #4, Bennington, KS
41.  Pleasant Unity Volunteer Fire Department, Pleasant Unity, PA
42.  Preston Volunteer Fire Company, Preston, MD
43.  Ripley Township Volunteer Fire Department, Alamo, IN
44.  Rome Fire Department, Rome, OH
45.  Saint Paul Mission Township Fire Department, Saint Paul, KS
46.  Scott Township Fire and EMS, Evansville, IN 
47.  Seaford Volunteer Fire Department, Seaford, DE 
48.  Silvercreek Township Fire Department, Jamestown, OH 
49.  Spring Valley Fire Department, Spring Valley, WI 
50.  Upham Fire Protection District, Upham, ND
51.  Watertown Township Fire Department, Mayville, MI
52.  Waubay Volunteer Fire Department, Waubay, SD 
53.  West Kittanning Fire Department, Kittanning, PA
54.  West Plains Fire Department, West Plains, MO
55.  Westport Community Volunteer Fire Department, Westport, IN
56.  Williamsburg Volunteer Fire Company, Williamsburg, PA
57.  Windsor Fire Department, Windsor, OH
58.  Wood Lake Fire Department, Wood Lake, MN 
59.  Audubon Fire Department (re-training only), Audubon, IA
60.  Guthrie Center Fire Department (re-training only), Guthrie Center, IA
61.  Hutchinson Fire Department (re-training only), Hutchinson, MN 
62.  Johnston Grimes Metropolitan Fire Department (re-training only), Johnston, IA
63.  Superior Ambulance Service & Training Institute (re-training only), Grove City, PA
64.  Traer Fire Department (re-training only), Traer, IA

“We are proud to provide first responders the education and resources to lead the fight against local grain bin entrapments,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “It’s been our mission to bring an end to this industry issue by raising awareness of the dangers and suppling needed equipment to the front line rescuers tasked with responding when accidents occur.”

NECAS, based out of Peosta, IA, will deliver the rescue tubes and training to the winning fire departments throughout 2022, traveling to each location with state-of-the-art grain entrapment simulators and rescue tubes. The comprehensive training sessions include classroom education and rescue simulations using the entrapment tools, which are loaded onto 20-foot trailers and able to hold about 100 bushels of grain each. 

With 2022 donations included, Nationwide and partners have supplied these resources to 265 departments across 31 states. At least five fire departments have utilized their rescue tubes and training to successfully rescue entrapped workers.

“It’s as important as ever to be following proper safety precautions when entering a bin,” said Liggett. “Our goal is to continue these efforts until we can ensure every rural fire department has access to these critical rescue resources.”

Nationwide is continuing to work with partners throughout 2022 to provide additional grain rescue tubes and training sessions to fire departments in need. To learn how to get involved and sponsor a rescue tube for your local fire department, visit the Partner With Us webpage.

“Thank you to our generous partners who have supported this cause to put an end to avoidable deaths in rural agricultural communities nationwide,” said Liggett.

The program is supported by Nationwide and the following generous partners:

1. KC Supply, NECAS, Indiana Corn Marketing Council, Maryland Grain Producers, Lutz Agency, Inc., Specialty Risk Insurance, CHS, Delaware Soybean Board, ProValue Insurance LLC, Mid Atlantic Farm Credit, Scoular Grain, Turtle Plastics, Mark Bruns Agency, Ashtabula County Farm Bureau, TGIF Solutions, Inc., Armstrong County Farm Bureau, Maryland Soybean Board, West Side Salvage, GROWMARK, AGI SureTrack, Gregerson Salvage, Inc., Maryland Farm Bureau, Ohio Farm Bureau, Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, New York Farm Bureau, Delaware Farm Bureau, Kelly Jones Insurance Agency, LLC, Rugby Insurance Agency, Gerber Insurance Agency, Wiley Insurance Agency, Valley Insurance Agency Alliance, Jefferson County Farm Bureau, Panichelle Insurance, Colonial Farm Credit, Charles County Farm Bureau, St. Mary’s County Farm Bureau, Gallagher, Heritage Insurance & Real Estate, ABIS/Assured Partners, Ag Choice Farm Credit, D. Larson Financial & Insurance Services, Pillar Insurance, Sump Saver, NOHR Wortmann Engineering, IRMI, and Traer Fire Department.

¹ Source: A.M. Best Market Share Report 2021

To help bring data-driven insights to customers, Nationwide and Razor Tracking announced a new partnership to offer advanced telematics and fleet management solutions at a discount for Nationwide’s agribusiness customers across the country. Nationwide’s agribusiness members will receive preferred pricing on Razor Tracking’s real-time vehicle telematics devices, dash cameras and subscription costs to help optimize fleet safety and performance over the roads and on the farms.

“Vehicle accidents are a leading cause of disruption for farm and agribusiness operations,” said Brad Liggett, Nationwide’s President of Agribusiness.  “Nationwide is always looking for answers to the problems facing our agriculture customers and our partnership with Razor Tracking helps us do that, using high-tech yet cost-effective technology to keep our members and their vehicles safe while also improving productivity for their business.”

With the Razor Tracking technology, operators can use an online portal or mobile app to monitor employee driving and help reduce hazardous behaviors – like high-speed driving, harsh braking and sharp cornering – and generate driver safety scores to coach improved performance and reduce the likelihood of accidents. The devices also send out alerts in the event of an engine failure or overturned vehicle, helping to improve vehicle maintenance and response to accidents.

As fuel prices spike across the country, customers can even leverage the devices to increase fuel efficiency by tracking vehicle locations, route efficiency, idle time and fuel levels – all in real time. Razor Tracking’s clients have shown a 30% increase in productivity in the first 60 days.

“Partnering with Nationwide solidifies the depth of Razor Tracking’s technology and ability to provide an ideal mixed-fleet solution for your agribusiness operation,” said Eric Mauch, Managing Partner of Razor Tracking. “Delivering a comprehensive platform with the latest telematics devices has been the cornerstone of our business, and we look forward to developing the same relationship with Nationwide’s customers.”

Learn how you can incorporate Razor Tracking’s telematics and fleet management solutions into your operation by contacting your Nationwide agent or visiting razortracking.com/nationwide.

Nationwide, the No. 1 insurer of farms and ranches in the U.S.¹, partnered with state FFA organizations to create the Golden Owl Award in 2018 to highlight the growing importance of educators and recognize the services of many of the country’s leading agricultural teachers. The program also supplies additional resources to help boost the teachers’ programs and provide students with optimal learning experiences.

Between August and December 2021*, Nationwide worked with partners in California, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, New York, Ohio and Pennsylvania, to collect nominations from students, parents and community members to identify educators who go above-and-beyond in making a difference for their students.

The 2021-2022 Golden Owl Award finalists are:

California

• Anthony Drumonde, Livingston High School, Livingston
• Kelly Miller, Arcata High School, Arcata
• Natalie Schuessler, North High School, Bakersfield
• Miguel Guerra, Ernest Righetti High School, Santa Maria
• Mary Martineau, Ramona High School, Ramona
• Elizabeth Ammon, Lassen high School, Susanville

Illinois

• Caseelynn Johnston, Bureau Valley High School, Manlius
• Kent Weber, Seneca High School, Seneca
• Wyatt McGrew, Macomb High School, Macomb
• Mike White, Paxton-Buckley-Loda High School, Paxton
• Mark Steber, Richland County High School, Olney

Indiana

• McCord Snider, East Central Middle School, Leon
• Blair Orme, Rushville High School, Rushville
• Brenlyn Freeman, Rensselaer Central High School, Rensselaer
• Andrew Helming, Jasper High School, Jasper
• Michael Jones, Adams Central High School, Monroe
• Adam Miller, Fountain Central High School, Veedersburg
• Hank Carson, Orleans High School, Orleans
• Hannah Doke, McCutcheon High School, Lafayette

Iowa

• Kevin Cooper, Nevada High School, Nevada
• Jon Davis, Iowa State University, Ames
• Ashley Wiebe, Susan Clark Jr High School, Muscatine
• Jamie Christiansen, Midland High School, Wyoming
• Micah Weber, Rock Valley High School, Rock Valley
• Tes Mittag, Boyer Valley High School, Dunlap
• Mike Cooley, East Union, Afton

New York

• Chloe Fuentes, John Bowne High School, Queens
• Taylor Bogardus, Schoharie Central School, Schoharie
• John St. Mary, Brushton-Moira Central School, Brushton
• Tina James, Windsor Central School, Windsor
• Johanna Bossard, Hamilton Central School, Hamilton
• Melvin Phelps, Lowville Academy, Lowville
• Crystal Aukema, Marathon Central School, Marathon
• Matthew Bryant, SCT Future Conservationist, Elmira
• Todd Eick, Medina High School, Medina
• Patricia Walker, Randolph Junior/Senior High School, Randolph
• Charles “Chip” Ax, SUNY Morrisville, Morrisville

Ohio

• Tricia Schoen, Genoa High School, Genoa
• Laura Ringler, Plymouth High School, Plymouth
• Lowell Moodt, Grand Valley High School, Orwell
• Barrett Zimmerman, Clyde High School, Clyde
• Sarah Heilers, Anna High School, Anna
• Aaron Thompson, Upper Scioto Valley High School and Ohio Hi-Point Career Center, McGuffey
• Jeff Tilley, Amanda-Clearcreek High School, Amanda
• Tim Kilpatrick, Coshocton County Career Center, Coshocton
• Eric Heeg, Blanchester High School, Blanchester
• Abby Campbell, Fort Frye High School, Beverly

Pennsylvania:

• Kathryn Janae McMichael, Lampeter-Strasburg High School, Lancaster
• Doug Brown, Central Columbia High School, Bloomsburg
• Tiffany Hoy, Tyrone Hight School, Tyrone
• Jodie Hoover, Fort Cherry High School, McDonald

Each finalist was presented with an individualized plaque in front of fellow teachers and students and received a $500 donation to help fund future educational efforts. Now, they’ll be entered into a final selection stage for the chance to be crowned as their state’s Ag Educator of the Year, earning an additional $3,000 Nationwide-funded check to help boost their program and the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy.²

“The Golden Owl Award seeks to thank agricultural teachers for the extraordinary care they bring to their work as they go above and beyond in educating America’s youth and future leaders,” said Nationwide’s agribusiness president, Brad Liggett. “We are proud to honor their contributions, highlight the growing need for their services, and supply additional resources to help benefit their programs and students.”

In conjunction with the Golden Owl Award, Nationwide is also donating $5,000 to each participating state’s FFA organization to further support the personal and professional growth of students, teachers and advisors alike. 

The Golden Owl Award is the result of partnerships between Nationwide, the California FFA, California Farm Bureau, Illinois FFA, Illinois Association of Vocational Agriculture Teachers, Farm Credit Illinois, Indiana FFA, Farm Credit Mid-America, the Iowa FFA Foundation, New York FFA, New York Farm Bureau, Ohio FFA, Ohio Farm Bureau, AgCredit, Pennsylvania FFA, Pennsylvania Farm Bureau and Compeer Financial.  

¹ Source: A.M. Best Market Share Report 2020

² In Ohio, all Golden Owl Award funding is contributed directly to the school to benefit the agriculture programs.

*Iowa Golden Owl Award nomination period was Aug. 1 – Dec. 1, 2021. Indiana Golden Owl Award nomination period was Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2021. New York Golden Owl Award nomination period was Aug. 1 – Nov. 1, 2021.

For more information about the wide variety of career opportunities at Nationwide, visit the careers page today.

Kirt Walker, Chief Executive Officer
After a devastating tornado on June 28, 1979 ripped through my hometown in Iowa, I learned why insurance was so critical to help families get back on their feet. When the Allied claims people were the first at the scene, it stuck in my mind that I wanted to help people. If you love helping people, I can’t think of a better way to do that every single day of your life than to work in insurance.

Mark Berven, President and COO, Nationwide Property & Casualty 
I’ve worked in the insurance industry for almost my entire career, so I may be a little biased about this. But working in insurance has appeals beyond the typical job-related perks, like a competitive salary and good benefits. In the insurance industry, we’re given the opportunity to help people every day. Whether it’s responding with humanitarian relief in the aftermath of a hurricane, providing the resources to restore people’s lives to the way they were before something happened, or simply making sure someone has reliable transportation while their vehicle is being repaired after an accident, it’s our job to be there. And that feels pretty good.

Gary Douglas, President, Nationwide National Partners 
My younger self wasn’t considering a career in insurance, but I’m glad I had educators and mentors who recognized how my skills could fit into an industry with such a great diversity of opportunities and career paths. I’m thankful to those who helped me build my future and I’m committed to paying my debt forward by helping to build the future of others. No matter your career goals, you can find success and enrichment here. 

Tony Fenton, Vice President, Nationwide Commercial Lines Underwriting & Product Development & Delivery 
I feel incredibly honored to work in an industry and for a company that is here to protect others when it matters most. Commercial Lines insurance is a dynamic industry filled with innovation and technology that’s rooted in relationships – all the best aspects of a fulfilling career. 

Brad Liggett, President, Nationwide Agribusiness 
Growing up on our family farm, insurance was a foreign word to me, and I certainly never thought I would find myself in the insurance industry for 35 years. But I’ve truly been blessed with two of the most noble professions out there as agriculture helps clothe, feed, and fuel the world and insurance helps protect all those things. To current ag students I would say don’t be surprised when you hear the passion of ag professionals whose path led them unexpectedly — and sometimes on purpose — to the insurance industry. 

Beth Riczko, President, Nationwide Personal Lines 
Math nerd finds a way to make a difference! I stumbled into my insurance career after graduation, a degree in physics and math was a natural fit for actuarial science. What I didn’t know was how fantastic it is to be part of an industry that truly cares about people. I get to be part of something bigger than me, something to be proud of — an industry that helps people recover and rebuild after a loss. The stories we hear from our customers, the stories that make you cry when you realize how we make a difference, that’s what makes this industry special and a career in it so rewarding.

Jeff Rommel, Senior Vice President, Personal Lines Sales & Distribution 
I am so fortunate to have found my insurance career right after graduating from Iowa State University (Go Cyclones!). Over the decades, I’ve had an opportunity to work in multiple areas including Sales, Service, Claims and more. Each has taught me something new while reinforcing a very important lesson… people are at the heart of everything we do! Whether those people are our members, our distribution partners, our communities, or our employees, we exist to serve and protect their futures. 

Cooks were asked to create simple and affordable casseroles using foods readily available to pantry clients. Judging focused on taste, affordability, and appearance. Nationwide’s president of Agribusiness, Brad Liggett, served as a judge for the contest.

“The Iowa State Fair is an important cultural event that offered us an opportunity to partner with the Food Bank of Iowa to raise awareness,” said Brad Liggett, President of Nationwide Agribusiness, who served as a judge and sits on the Food Bank of Iowa Board of Directors. “Food insecurity in Iowa has doubled, even tripled with families with children due to COVID-19. It affects the health of our community and hinders growth, education and work performance.”

Olivia Smith from Winterset, IA collected the blue ribbon and a $1,000 cash prize provided by Nationwide. Smith’s “Family Favorite Skillet Casserole” included tater tots, ground pork, vegetables, creamy sauce and seasoning. The blue-ribbon award-winning recipes will be published in an electronic cookbook to be distributed to Food Bank of Iowa pantry partners.

“Our food pantries regularly ask for affordable, tasty and simple recipes to provide new ideas for pantry clients,” said Food Bank of Iowa CEO Michelle Book. “The casserole dishes from this competition are destined to become family favorites.”

The Nationwide Foundation supports food banks across the country and Feeding America’s efforts to source more fresh fruits and vegetables for people struggling with hunger. For more about Nationwide and the Nationwide Foundation’s partnership with Feeding America and their efforts to fight food insecurity, visit the Feeding America page.

To raise awareness of these dangers and prevent all-too-common accidents, Nationwide has launched its seventh annual Nominate Your Fire Department Contest in recognition of Grain Bin Safety Week. The goal is to help prevent injuries and fatalities by promoting safe bin-entry procedures when entry is absolutely necessary, such as maintaining quality grain, testing bin atmosphere for toxic gases, wearing proper safety equipment and always utilizing a spotter who can help if needed. Nominations for this year’s Nominate Your Fire Department Contest are open until April 30.

Today, the nation’s highest-ranking agriculture leader, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue, joined the effort by signing a federal proclamation recognizing Grain Bin Safety Week, bringing a national focus to the hazards of grain bin entry and Nationwide’s efforts to prevent further accidents.

This year, Grain Bin Safety Week runs from Feb. 16-22 and has been officially recognized by the following states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, West Virginia

“We hope grain operators, farmers and community leaders will join us in expanding knowledge of safe practices not just during National Grain Bin Safety Week, but year-round,” said Secretary Perdue.

Since 2014, Nationwide has awarded grain rescue tubes and training to 111 fire departments in 26 states.

“When we initiated Grain Bin Safety Week in 2014, the goal was to reduce the occurrence of grain bin accidents by raising awareness of the hazards and by equipping first responders with the tools and training needed to respond quickly when necessary,” said Brad Liggett, president of Nationwide Agribusiness, the no. 1 insurer of farms and ranches in the U.S.1 “We applaud the USDA’s efforts to bring further national attention to this issue and to our efforts to ensure fire departments have the resources they need.”

Four fire departments included in the program have already put their tubes and training to action by rescuing workers trapped in grain bins. In 2017, the Glenville Fire Department in Minnesota received a call to assist a local farmer who had fallen into a grain silo. Utilizing the grain rescue tube and training provided to them nearly two years earlier, first responders were able to save the man’s life even though he’d been engulfed up to his face in flowing corn. Nationwide and NECAS traveled to Glenville to get a first-hand account of the rescue in a video available here.

Most recently in June 2019, the Wauzeka Fire Department in Wisconsin utilized its rescue tube to save the life of a farmer trapped for more than an hour before he was discovered by a truck driver.

“In June, we were dispatched to help a neighboring department needing assistance with an individual entrapped in a grain bin,” said Nick Zeeh, fire chief for the Wauzeka Fire Department. “Thanks to the training provided by Nationwide and its partners, every emergency responder had a good understanding of the steps they needed to take, and we were able to achieve the ultimate goal – the victim survived and everyone returned home. I can safely say without the grain bin rescue training, we would not have been as prepared or as effective in responding to the situation.”

According to researchers at Purdue University (PDF), 370 grain entrapment cases have been recorded in the last 10 years. In 2018, 30 cases were documented, representing a 30% increase from 2017, with half (15) resulting in fatalities. Purdue also estimates that an additional 30% of cases go unreported each year. A recent story from United Press International also highlighted a startling uptick in grain bin accidents as farmers rush to clear last year’s unused grain, with at least 14 people killed in grain bins between August and December 2019.

Injuries & Fatalities: The Startling Facts 

• Suffocation from engulfment is a leading cause of death in grain bin accidents.

• It takes only seconds to be completely engulfed in flowing grain or overcome by oxygen-deficient atmospheres.

• Between August and December 2019, at least 14 people were killed in grain bin accidents as farmers rushed to clear the season’s unused grain.

• 30 documented grain entrapments resulted in 15 deaths (50% fatality rate) in 2018.

• 38 documented grain entrapments resulted in 18 deaths in 2014 – the highest recorded since 2010.

• In 2010, at least 26 U.S. workers were killed in grain engulfments − the highest fatalities on record.

Sources: 2018 Summary of U.S. Agricultural Confined Space-Related Injuries and Fatalities and United Press International

To help prevent further deaths and injuries, Nationwide collaborates each year with the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS) to provide safety training. The director of NECAS travels to training locations with a state-of-the-art grain entrapment simulator and rescue tube. The comprehensive training sessions include classroom education and a rescue simulation with the entrapment tool, which is loaded onto a 20-foot trailer and able to hold about 100 bushels of grain.

Nationwide’s Grain Bin Safety Week and Nominate Your Fire Department Contests are supported by the following partners:

Corteva Agriscience

KC Supply

CHS

Lutz Agency, Inc.

NECAS

ProValue Insurance

Specialty Risk Insurance

AGI SureTrack

GROWMARK

Delaware Farm Bureau®

Maryland Farm Bureau®

New York Farm Bureau®

Ohio Farm Bureau®

Pennsylvania Farm Bureau®

ABIS

Carter Fire District

Frazer Insurance Agency, Inc.

Gallagher

German American Insurance Inc.

Graves-Fearon Agency

Miami County Farm Bureau®

Scoular Grain Company

West Side Salvage

First Gabrielson Agency

NOHR Wortmann Engineering

Stuber Insurance Agency

Sump Saver

For more information about the program, purpose or nomination process, visit www.grainbinsafetyweek.com or watch this video.