Oregon, USA
January 9, 2012

In December, at the 71st annual Oregon Seed Growers League meeting, the Oregon Agri-Business Council presented their annual “Voice of the Industry” award. The “Voice of the Industry” award was originally given annually by the Portland Chamber of Commerce beginning in 1986 and the Oregon Seed Growers League was asked to nominate a candidate. It was to be awarded to “someone who is, or has been, active in the industry and who has contributed to the improvement of the industry.”

This year’s recipient was PICKSEED’s own Dan Hemshorn. Dan has been involved in contract production for Seed Research of Oregon and The PICKSEED Companies Group for nearly 20 years. Working closely with growers and PICKSEED’s research department, Dan has become a fundamental asset to Oregon's seed industry. His organization and community involvements showcase his dedication to agriculture.

Dan got his start in 1978 with the Scott’s Company as an agronomist. While working there, he obtained a Master’s degree at OSU in Crop Sciences. He then worked as an agronomist for both Wilco and Northrup King.

Dan has served as past President of the Oregon Seed Council, volunteered as manager of the Oregon Seed Council booth at the Oregon State Fair for 10 years, and he still remains active on their Research and Public Relations committees. The booth that the OSC manages is a project Dan feels is especially important in promoting the seed industry. When asked about his involvement Dan said, “the booth has been a means of telling the Seed Industry story. The booth provides the opportunity for volunteers to answer many questions, especially about home lawns. Turf samples give a direct look at species most adapted to a site.”

He is also past President and current member of the Oregon Grass and Legume Advisory Committee, and a 20 year active member of the Certification Board. He is a member of the Oregon Seed Trade Association, serves on their Research and Technology Committees and is a past member of their Board of Directors. Dan served as Secretary and Board of Directors member to the Oregon Agriculture Chemicals Association.

But his organization involvement doesn’t stop there! Together with his wife, Josie, and their four children, Dan keeps busy in the community as well. Dan is a member of the St. Paul Rodeo Association, a Woodburn Grange member, a volunteer at the Mt. Angel Oktoberfest, and is involved in many of his church’s organizations.

Dan’s dedication to agriculture and the seed industry are second to none. He said of the award, “I really appreciate working with the Oregon seed growers and the quality of their production; truly an honor to have received this award. A special thank you to the Seed Growers, Seed Council, Seed Trade, OSU Staff and all affected by the industry for the opportunity to serve.”

Website: http://www.dlfna.com

Published: January 9, 2012