The Washington Farm Bureau recognized legislative leaders during this week’s banquet at its Annual Meeting in Wenatchee, including 24th District Sen. Kevin Van De Wege.

Two Legislator of the Year awards and two Lifetime Supporter awards were presented to honor their outstanding contributions to Washington’s agricultural community.

Each year, Washington Farm Bureau’s Legislative Committee selects one state senator and one state representative as Legislator of the Year, recognizing leaders who champion critical agricultural issues and advance policies benefiting farmers and ranchers. This year’s Lifetime Supporter awards were uniquely presented to honor recipients for their many years of legislative service.

Sen. Kevin Van De Wege, 24th District, former chair of the Senate Agriculture, Water, Natural Resources and Parks Committee, received Legislator of the Year for his leadership on key issues like agricultural overtime, exempt fuels, and the removal of the dredge and fill proviso from the state budget.

Rep Mary Dye, 9th District, Ranking Member of the House Environment and Energy Committee, was also honored for her advocacy on water and land use issues, amending dredge and fill regulations, and championing agriculture’s role in food security.

The Lifetime Supporter awards honored two legislators, J.T. Wilcox and Joel Kretz, for their decades of unwavering advocacy and impactful leadership. These awards celebrate individuals who have consistently worked to bridge divides, foster collaboration, and tackle the most pressing challenges facing Washington’s agricultural community. Their dedicated service has left a lasting legacy, strengthening the future of farming and ranching across the state.

During his acceptance speech, former Okanogan Farm Bureau President Joel Kretz reflected, “This organization is what makes me feel like we still have a chance.”