NAAJ Editorial Winners - 2024

Entries in this category require the writer to build arguments on fact and logic to address a certain issue. An editorial should state a position and convince the reader of the need for action. Note: ONE column is submitted as a single entry.

Number of entries: 14

Judge’s overall comments: I thoroughly enjoyed reading the judging the editorials. All 14 entries were engaging and informative. What separated the winning entries from the rest of the pack was the use of compelling storytelling in support of a specific position or call to action.

Judge: Luke Milliron is a University of California Cooperative Extension orchard adviser in California’s beautiful northern Sacramento Valley, researching and educating in support of the almond, walnut, and prune industries. Milliron co-hosts “Growing the Valley” podcast, the first of now many out there on the California orchard industry. He has published more than 300 newsletter articles, podcast episodes, industry magazine articles, blogs, research reports, and peer-reviewed publications. Milliron chairs the Global Communications Committee at the Almond Board of California.

 

FIRST PLACE — Urban Lehner, DTN/Progressive Farmer

Chinese Investments in US Ag Raise Alarms — 2/10/2023

Judge’s comments: This winning editorial provided engaging storytelling that strongly supported its closing call to action.

SECOND PLACE — Gregg Hillyer, DTN/Progressive Farmer

Global Stats Hit Home — 3/1//2023

Judge’s comments: This second-place editorial weaved personal storytelling with statistics in effective support of its position.

THIRD PLACE — Urban Lehner, DTN/Progressive Farmer

Brazilian Beef Producers Keep Deforesting the Amazon — 7/10/2023

Judge’s comments: This third-place editorial was informative and built a strong case for the position declared at its closing.

HONORABLE MENTION

—Gregg Hillyer, DTN/Progressive Farmer


Biologicals: Manage Expectations 8/1/2023

Judge’s comments: This honorable mention was well-crafted but lacked the compelling storytelling in support of a specific position that the top three entries possessed.