With nearly 20 years of experience in the custom application of fertilizer and crop protection products, Tod Borge is the "go to man" at South Dakota Wheat Growers in Bath, S.D., a locally owned agronomy and grain cooperative with more than 20 retail locations in North and South Dakota. Borge's professionalism and dedication to a job well done paid big dividends at this year's Agricultural Retailers Association Conference & Exposition when he was presented with the keys to a brand new Harley Davidson as the winner of the 2009 Ag-Chem Operator of the Year award. His attention to detail, knowledge of his trade area, and role in his organization's custom application training program helped set Borge apart from the field. "Quality operators are an essential component of any successful custom application program. Tod's commitment to application excellence sets a standard that is unattainable by most equipment operators. He's the sort of unselfish person that enriches everything he touches, including our company and our community," said Scott Hier, vice president of agronomy at South Dakota Wheat Growers. "It's really great to see him get some national recognition for all of his hard work."

It's not uncommon for top operators to work extremely long hours to provide the most timely and accurate application possible. AGCO is determined to make sure those dedicated operators get the recognition they deserve. Now in its third year, the Ag-Chem Operator of the Year program was developed to show appreciation to the best custom applicators in the industry. Applicators are evaluated on their commitment, their ability to provide exceptional service, and how they stand out as true professionals and members of their community.

"Tod truly represents the best of the best in custom application. He is the 'go-to-guy' for South Dakota Wheat Growers, and it is obvious his customers and managers count on him day in and day out to do an exceptional job in the field. His commitment to precision agriculture, training and accuracy in the field sets a strong example for all professional applicators." said Mark Sharitz, director of marketing for AGCO Application Equipment. "We're pleased to recognize his efforts, and the contributions that all operators make to our industry."

The Ag-Chem Operator of the Year is an ongoing program to recognize the best operators in the custom application industry. To learn more about the program or to nominate an operator for the 2010 program, go to www.applylikeapro.com