Four new inductees will be joining the Kent County Agricultural Hall of Fame this fall.
Kim Cooper, George Denys, Dennis Jackson, and the late Dr. Ron Pitblado were announced as this year’s nominees during Monday's council meeting.
"This year's nominees are four men who have provided a positive influence on agriculture in the Chatham-Kent community and beyond," said Agricultural Hall of Fame Association Vice-President Alice Uher.
Cooper, known as the "Ag Guy" is a Wheatley resident and a former agricultural specialist for the Municipality of Chatham-Kent. He has produced a wealth of agricultural information and guidance for a number of groups, organizations, and committees.
Cooper has also helped several businesses grow and expand into the global marketplace.
Denys, who farmed in Raleigh Township and served on council, was described as someone who is selfless in their efforts to support both local and Canadian agriculture through creating events, researching innovations, and being a strong advocate for Raleigh residents.
"He is recognized as an educated and well-informed leader," said Uher.
Jackson of Chatham Township has been "a champion" of high-quality Ontario food-grade soybeans.
"He recognized the extra value for growers from the newest genetics and benefits to quality, yield, and research that certified seed," said Uher. "Dennis is also committed to sponsorship, community involvement, and support of community infrastructure projects."
The late Doctor Pitblado researched vegetable pest management and taught thousands of students at the Ridgetown Campus of the University of Guelph, “sharing his excitement for the development of insect and disease strategies for horticultural crops,” said Uher.
Pitblado developed BeetCast to assist with sugar beet production and TomCast to assist with tomato production.
“He had an unstoppable passion to investigate new possibilities for Ontario’s fruit and vegetable industry,” said Uher.
South-Kent Councillor Mary Clare Latimer praised the committee for selecting the most "deserving individuals" as well as demonstrating achievement in the realm of agriculture and service to the rural community of Chatham-Kent.
The ceremony to officially induct the new hall of fame members will take place on November 22 at the Hidden Hills Golf and Country Club.