Bob Dunning Honored with Top State Award for Decades of Service to Local and State Agriculture

(KNSI) — Bob Dunning has spent decades helping Stearns County farmers navigate agricultural challenges, and now he’s being recognized with one of the state’s highest honors.

The longtime Stearns County Agricultural Inspector received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Minnesota Association of County Agricultural Inspectors (MACAI) and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA). A press release says the award is rarely given and recognizes Dunning’s decades of dedication, leadership, and partnership in advancing the agricultural inspector program across Minnesota.

Dunning served on numerous committees and legislative projects, representing both MACAI and MDA. He also played a role in passing the bill that funded the County Agricultural Inspector position, advocating directly at the Capitol during legislative hearings.

He is also credited with training countless weed inspectors and conducting road surveys throughout Stearns County to develop noxious weed management strategies.

Dunning is preparing to retire at the end of August.

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