Sussex County Farm Bureau (SCFB) recognized individuals and families for their contributions to agriculture during its annual meeting on October 20, 2026, at the University of Delaware Carvel Research and Education Center.
The evening brought members together for the county Farm Bureau’s annual meeting and recognition of its 2026 award recipients.
Distinguished Service to Agriculture – Harry Daisey
Harry Daisey of Bridgeville was recognized with the 2026 Sussex County Farm Bureau Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award for his commitment to supporting farmers and agricultural businesses.
Daisey has worked in the insurance industry since 1984, beginning with health and life insurance before expanding into business insurance and adding crop insurance in 2002. In 2021, he became a Certified Nationwide Farm Agent, specializing in agricultural coverage for farmers throughout the Delmarva Peninsula.
“Raised on a family farm in Dagsboro, he brings firsthand agricultural experience to his work, helping him better understand and support local farm operations,” SCFB President Steve Breeding said while presenting the award.
Beyond his professional career, Daisey is active in the community through the Lions Club, Little League and Boy Scouts. He is also a member of the Crop Insurance Professionals Association, which advocates for strong crop insurance programs.
Farm Family of the Year – The Burton Messick Family
The Burton Messick family of Laurel was recognized as the 2026 Sussex County Farm Bureau Farm Family of the Year for their longstanding involvement in Sussex County agriculture.
Messick has deep ties to the local agricultural community, with a career spanning multiple business enterprises and grain operations in the Laurel area. Over the years, he has held leadership roles within a local grain company, supporting farmers and agricultural businesses throughout Sussex County.
“His career reflects a strong commitment to land stewardship, agriculture, and community focused enterprise in Laurel and the surrounding region,” Breeding said while presenting the award.
Livestock Rate of Gain Awards
Connie Fox, Sussex County Women’s Committee Chair, presented the Rate of Gain awards recognizing 4-H and FFA members in Sussex County whose livestock achieved the highest rate of gain among animals shown at the Delaware State Fair.
Graycen Malchow earned the highest rate of gain in goats for 4-H at 0.683 pounds per day.
The award recipients will also be recognized at the SCFB Annual Banquet in February 2027.
For more information on Sussex County Farm Bureau, visit https://defb.org/about-us/counties/sussex-county-farm-bureau/.
