The Wingos, who have been Noble Foundation cooperators for 25 years, own and operate Riverbottom Ranches near Holdenville, Okla. Their operations include cow-calf production, a stocker enterprise and pecan production.

The award is given to Noble Foundation cooperators who best exemplify leadership in agricultural production techniques, stewardship of natural resources and profitability of their overall farm/ranch operations. Following the example set by Leonard Wyatt, a successful farmer-stockman and a long-time Foundation cooperator from Purcell, Okla., recipients will have demonstrated their willingness to help others by participating in producer forums, hosting field days and tours, etc.

"After the committee selected the Wingos, I reviewed the application materials and quickly agreed that this family exceeded the award selection criteria," Altom said. "Working with people like them helps keep our staff motivated and enthused about what we do."

The Wingos and ranch employee Rusty Crawford accepted the award plaque presented by Agricultural Division director Wadell Altom and agricultural economist Fred Schmedt. The Wingos' daughter, son in law and granddaughter — Brandy, Patrick and Kylie Hartley — were also on hand.

"Our family is so blessed to have found the Noble Foundation in 1980. I've dreamed of being a farmer since I was little, and thanks to the Noble Foundation, I'm doing it," Mr. Wingo said. "I think Mr. Noble would be very proud of the Noble Foundation's employees."

In addition to the plaque, Mr. Wingo received a belt buckle and Mrs. Wingo received a cuff bracelet commemorating the award. Their names will be added to the plaque in the reception area of the Agricultural Building listing the winners of the award.

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Photo cutline:	From left — Noble Foundation agricultural economist Fred Schmedt presents Brenda Wingo, Rusty Crawford and Dave Wingo with a plaque in honor of the Wingos winning the Leonard Wyatt Memorial Outstanding Cooperator Award.

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The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation (www.noble.org), headquartered in Ardmore, Okla., is a nonprofit organization conducting agricultural, forage improvement and plant biology research; providing grants to non-profit charitable, educational and health organizations; and assisting farmers and ranchers through educational and consultative agricultural programs.