Keys Named Georgia Farm Family Award Finalists

David and Allison Key advanced to the final stage of the 2027 Georgia Young Farmers Association competition.

Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Organic Food

Screen-print poster illustration of a vintage tractor in a red clay field at sunset, evoking Georgia's agricultural heritage. — David and Allison Key of Carroll County have been named North Region finalists for the 2027 Georgia Young Farmers Association Farm Family of the Year award. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you feel your local agricultural community receives enough recognition for its contributions to the state?

David and Allison Key have been named North Region finalists for the 2027 Georgia Young Farmers Association Farm Family of the Year. The couple, who operate Key Farms, is one of three families competing for the statewide honor.

Why it matters

This award recognizes the dedication of farm families who contribute significantly to Georgia agriculture and their local communities. The program highlights the essential role that family-run operations play in the state's agricultural sector.

Three families have advanced to the final stage of the program, representing the North, Central, and South regions of the state. The winner will be determined from this group of three.

The players

David Key

He is a civil engineer and co-owner of Contour Retaining Walls.

Allison Key

She is a physician and owner of 3:16 Healthcare.

Georgia Young Farmers Association

This organization supports agricultural education and recognizes outstanding contributions within the state.

The details

David Key, a civil engineer, and his wife Allison Key, a physician, hosted judges at their Carroll County operation during the week of September 20, 2026. During the visit, the couple shared their family story and demonstrated their commitment to agriculture.

During the week of September 20, 2026, the Keys hosted judges at their farm.
The Keys were named North Region finalists on September 24, 2026.
The winner will be announced in January 2027.

Culture Shift

This selection follows the established annual cycle set by the Georgia Young Farmers Association Farm Family of the Year recognition. The program highlights a trend of celebrating the legacy and sustainability of family-owned agricultural operations across the state.

The nomination highlights the influence of family-run agricultural businesses in Carroll County and the surrounding regions. Residents can look to the upcoming January convention for the announcement of the state winner.

The takeaway

Supporting local farm families helps sustain the diverse agricultural landscape that provides resources to the broader community. Recognizing these operations encourages the next generation to maintain high standards in food production and stewardship.