Florida dairy farmer Ben Butler was selected for Vance Publishing Corp.’s second annual “40 Under 40 Award” that recognizes people making a significant contribution to America’s food system. He joins a group of top agricultural industry professionals from across North America selected for their leadership and commitment to advance the cause to double food production by 2050.

Butler, 35, who grew up working on the family farm, today is farm manager and vice president of the board of directors at Butler Oaks Farm in Lorida in Highlands County. His commitment to agriculture is clearly demonstrated by his desire to get involved in his community, be a spokesman for his farm and carry the flag for the agricultural industry.

Since his role as state president for the national Future Farmers of America organization at the age of 18, he has served on countless committees and councils, ranging from local co-ops and youth livestock shows to agricultural councils and advisory committees. Butler also has volunteered with local 4-H clubs and numerous other organizations.

In addition, he is a member of Class IX of the well-respected Wedgworth Leadership Institute for Agricultural and Natural Resources, which develops and refines the leadership qualities of Florida’s agriculture and natural resource professionals.

Vance Publishing, which produces agricultural magazines including Dairy Herd Management and Ag Professional, started the awards program as a way to identify problem solvers for the next generation of agriculture. The honorees were chosen from hundreds of applicants by a panel of six judges who have had distinguished careers in the agriculture field.