RAEFORD — Cape Fear Farm Credit is looking for leaders in Scotland County’s agricultural industry who are working to change the future of rural America.

“This program will highlight 100 individuals from various backgrounds who have made important contributions to the agricultural industry and our rural communities,” Cape Fear Farm Credit Interim CEO, Bill Melton said in a statement. “The landscape of agriculture is evolving, and we are exciting to participate in the Farm Credit 100 Fresh Perspectives Program to identify and celebrate these leaders.”

Nominations for Farm Credit 100 Fresh Perspectives will be accepted at www.FarmCredit100.com until Dec. 18, 2015.

A panel of experts will evaluate the entrants and select the top 100 honorees to be announced during National Ag Week, March 14-18, 2016.

Officials said the 100 honorees will be celebrated and supported at the national and local level in an effort to build awareness of and appreciation for rural American contributions to everyday life.

Of the Farm Credit 100 Fresh Perspectives honorees, 10 “exceptional leaders” will each receive a $10,000 award. The 10 honorees and a guest will also be invited to Washington, D.C., to participate in a special recognition event in 2016.

To recognize the diverse ways individuals are contributing to the future success of rural communities, nominations will be accepted in 10 categories:

— Leadership (over 21)

— Youth Leadership (21 and younger)

— Rural Policy Influence

— Beginning Farmer or Rancher Achievement

— Entrepreneurship and Innovation

— Sustainability and Natural Resource Conservation

— Financial Stewardship

— Mentoring and Volunteerism

— Agriculture Education and Community Impact

— Rural and Urban Connection

To learn more and read the nomination category descriptions, visit farmcredit100.com.

Cape Fear Farm Credit is an agricultural lending cooperative owned by its member-borrowers. It provides loans for real estate, equipment including vehicles, livestock and crop production as well as rural homes and family living. Other financial services available are credit life insurance.

Scotland County is served by the Raeford branch at 331 South Main St. in Raeford the office can be reached at 910-875-6181

Staff report