NFU Cymru launches Sustainable Agriculture Award 2026

16 April 2026

Jess Williams receiving the Award from Bryn Hughes and Hedd Pugh.

Last year's award-winner, Jess Williams pictured with Bryn Hughes, National Sheep and Beef Specialist for Wynnstay PLC (L) and Hedd Pugh, former NFU Cymru Rural Affairs Board Chair (R).

The NFU Cymru/Wynnstay Group PLC Sustainable Agriculture Award has now opened for nominations, with this year’s winner set to be honoured at the union’s Sustainable Farming Conference. 

In a first for the union, the winner of this year’s NFU Cymru/Wynnstay Sustainable Agriculture Award will be announced at the NFU Cymru Sustainable Agriculture Conference on Tuesday 30 June.

The event and award announcement will be held at Pant Farm near Abergavenny in Monmouthshire, kindly hosted by NFU Cymru Rural Affairs Board Chair – and award judge - Gary Yeomans.The award will be jointly judged by Gary Yeomans (NFU Cymru) and Bryn Hughes (Wynnstay).

Now in its sixth year, the prestigious award seeks to recognise the unparalleled contribution Welsh farming enterprises make to the economic, environmental, social and cultural well-being of Wales.

The closing date for applications is 25 May 2026

Award criteria

The NFU Cymru / Wynnstay Group plc Sustainable Agriculture Award will be awarded to the farm or farmer who, in the round, can:

  • Demonstrate a commitment to the production of high-quality food to world leading standards
  • Demonstrate their positive contribution to protecting, maintaining and enhancing the quality of the farmed environment
  • Demonstrate their involvement and contribution to the rural economy, rural community and Welsh culture.

Prize

The winner of this prestigious award will receive £500 and a commemorative accolade. The closing date for entries is Monday 25 May 2026. 
Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed at their farm by the judging panel in late May / early June.

How to apply

Nominations are invited from farms and/or farmers throughout Wales. Farmers are invited to nominate themselves or they can be nominated by friends, relatives or organisations.

By completing the application form you are agreeing to have this information sent to NFU Cymru for the purposes of contacting you and the nominee (if different) about this award. Read our Privacy Notice to find out about how we respect your data.

 

Application form

Please briefly describe the farm or business, including location, size and main enterprises that the nominee is involved with.

What is the nominee’s vision for the future, for their farm or business over next 5-10 years and how do they see the wider industry developing? Things to consider include: sustainability, innovation, succession planning, resilience or community impact.

Please explain what makes this individual or business stand out. You may wish to include achievements or milestones, leadership or innovation, contribution to the farming industry or rural community and any challenges overcome.

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This Award is kindly sponsored by Wynnstay Group PLC

 

Hear from previous winners of the award