The 36th annual Harvest Bowl program at North Dakota State University will be held Oct. 23 and 24. Highlights of the event include a Harvest Bowl dinner and awards on Oct. 23 and the Harvest Bowl football game between NDSU and Missouri State on Oct. 24.

As the state’s land-grant university, NDSU plays a major role in contributing knowledge through research, academic programs and the Extension Service. More than 1,800 agriculturists have been recognized and more than $80,000 in scholarships have been awarded to NDSU student athletes with agricultural backgrounds.

The NDSU Harvest Bowl program recognizes the success, dedication and hard work of outstanding agriculturists in 53 counties in North Dakota and several counties in Minnesota.

An agribusiness award recipient is chosen annually. This award recognizes individuals who have distinguished themselves in the field of agriculture and business in North Dakota and beyond. Ron Offutt, one of North Dakota’s premier business owners, will receive the 2009 award.

Offutt’s most well-known operation is RDO Equipment Co. Founded in 1968, it owns the largest network of John Deere construction and agricultural equipment dealerships in the country.

Several scholarships also are awarded to outstanding male and female athletes.

The 36th annual Harvest Bowl festivities begin Friday, Oct. 23, at the Fargo Ramada Plaza and Suites with a dinner, awards ceremony and games. On Saturday, honorees will participate in educational sessions on the NDSU campus and attend the Harvest Bowl football game.

For tickets and information on Harvest Bowl activities, visit the NDSU Alumni Association Web site at http://www.ndsualumni.com/, call the NDSU alumni office toll-free at (800) 279-8971 or locally at (701) 231-6800, or e-mail marilyn@ndsualumni.com.

NDSU Agriculture Communication