In a recent celebratory event at Hershey Lodge, Rick Ebert, a dedicated dairy farmer from Westmoreland County, was honored with the esteemed Barnraiser Award by the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau. This accolade is the highest recognition the bureau bestows, and it was awarded during their 73rd annual meeting.
At 63 years old, Ebert, a resident of Derry Township and the former president of the bureau, has been a significant figure in advocating for the agricultural sector at various levels including county, state, and national platforms.
Ebert, who helms the operations at Ebert Family Farms, expressed his gratitude upon receiving this award. He paid tribute to his early influences in agriculture, including his 4-H leaders and extension agents, acknowledging their dedication to the agricultural community.
His commitment to agriculture extended beyond his educational years, as Ebert chose to become a 4-H leader, focusing on enriching the agricultural sector and community development.
The Barnraiser Award is a tribute to individuals who have devoted their lives to leading and uplifting the agricultural community, as noted by the bureau.
Ebert’s contributions are manifold. He led the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau as its eighth president from 2014 to 2022 and was an integral part of the American Farm Bureau Federation, serving on its board of directors and executive committee. His journey with the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau is longstanding, having served as vice president for a decade and representing District 16 on the state board of directors from 1996 to 2004.
His leadership extended to various roles, including presiding over the Westmoreland County Farm Bureau and vice-chairing the Young Farmer and Rancher Committee (now the Young Ag Professionals). Ebert’s advocacy for dairy farmers is notable, with his involvement in the Dairy State Committee and his testimonies before the Pennsylvania Milk Marketing Board.
Ebert’s achievements in agriculture are numerous, with accolades like the Mid-Atlantic “Master Farmer” Award in 2009, the Charles E. Cowan Memorial Award in 2008, and the Farmer of the Year title at the 2007 Country Folks Keystone Farm Show. His farm also received recognition with the Westmoreland County Conservation Award in 1983.
Beyond his professional achievements, Ebert is actively involved in community service. He serves as a 4-H leader, superintendent for the Westmoreland County Fair Association, and is a member of the St. James Catholic Church Pastoral Council.
Ebert, reflecting on his journey, shared, “I really enjoy interacting with people.” His story is a testament to his commitment to agriculture and the community at large.
