Idaho Man Honored By Syngenta

Skye Root, founder of Root Agricultural Advisory in Boise, Idaho, was named the 2022 Professional Farm Manager of the Year.  The award, co-sponsored by Syngenta, Farm Journal’s The Scoop magazine, and the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers, recognizes farm managers who display excellence in client service and a commitment to agriculture.  Root has worked in the asset and farm management industry for over 10 years and served multiple roles, including senior vice president for a global farmland asset manager and water rights consultant for a leading advisory firm in the water rights industry.  Four years ago, Root decided to start his own company, Root Agricultural Advisory, where he and his team manage and grow farmland portfolios throughout the Western United States. 

"The importance of farm managers is rising as the current generation of farmers begins to retire; they need someone to step in and keep the operation running,” said Brent Rockers, district manager at Syngenta and professional farm manager lead.  “The best farm managers put their heart and soul into the land and manage it like it is their own.  What stood out to me in Skye's application was the diversity of the areas that he works in and the people that he works with.  He covers a broad range of services within the farm management industry, and that is impressive.”

Involvement in the ASFMRA has allowed Root to be part of a meaningful and impactful organization, expand his network and make friendships.

“Skye has the ability to relate with people in a very down-to-earth and humble way,” said Brent Lawson, vice president of Permanent Crops and Acquisitions at Root Agricultural Advisory.  “Skye is sharp and experienced, and his knowledge can cross-pollinate across the regions we work in.  Because of that, he has a unique perspective to bring forward to the clients we serve.”

Root’s integrity, dedication to his industry and desire to help farmers reach their potential are qualities that his clients and colleagues value.

“Working with Skye as our farm manager provides us with comfort in knowing that he takes care of our farms like they were his own,” said Patrick Trainor, head of Investments at Homestead Capital and a client of Root’s for the past four years.  “His attention to detail and great communication skills are just a couple of examples of what he offers to make our lives easier.”

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