Aug 13, 2025 | Blog, Press Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Alliance Launches Patrick O’Toole Young Conservationist Scholarship

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August 13, 2025

Contact: Jane Townsend, Conference Coordinator
Family Farm Alliance
jane@familyfarmalliance.org
www.familyfarmalliance.org

August 13, 2025 – The Family Farm Alliance is proud to announce the inaugural Patrick O’Toole Young Conservationist Scholarship, created to honor the life and legacy of Patrick “Pat” O’Toole (1948–2024), who served as Alliance president for 19 years and dedicated his career to protecting irrigated agriculture, migratory bird habitat, and tribal rights.

Pat (pictured at left, with grandson, Tiarnán in September 2023) was passionate about mentoring the next generation of agricultural leaders, encouraging them to nurture healthy landscapes while producing sustainable food and fiber.

This scholarship continues his mission by providing financial support for young farmers and ranchers to attend the 2025 Family Farm Alliance Annual Conference, October 30–31 in Reno, Nevada.

Eligibility

Applicants must be between 18–35 years of age and active in western irrigated agriculture, whether through a farming/ranching operation, university studies in irrigated agriculture, or service on a farmer-run irrigation district board/entity.

Scholarship Coverage

  • Conference registration
  • Hotel accommodations (up to 3 nights)
  • Roundtrip airfare or mileage reimbursement (up to $700)
    Meals and incidental expenses not included, except those provided during the conference.

Application Requirements

  • Completed scholarship application form
  • Statement of purpose outlining:
    • How attending the conference would benefit you and/or your operation
    • Three top issues or concerns you face as a young farmer or rancher
  • Letter of recommendation from a regional leader in irrigated agriculture

Applications are due September 1, 2025. 

“The Family Farm Alliance and Pat’s family are committed to encouraging the next generation of water leaders,” said Sharon O’Toole, Pat’s wife of 48 years (pictured at left). “This scholarship will give young agriculturists the chance to connect with producers, policymakers, and water professionals from across the West to address issues of critical importance.”

The Family Farm Alliance is a leading advocate for family farmers, ranchers, irrigation districts, and allied industries in 16 western states, dedicated to ensuring reliable and affordable irrigation water supplies for agriculture.

For more information and to apply, visit:
https://www.familyfarmalliance.org/otoole/.

 

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