Derek and Tannis Axten of Axten Farms Ltd. at Minton are Saskatchewan’s 2017 Outstanding Young Farmers.

The couple received the honour during a luncheon yesterday at Canada’s Farm Progress Show.

The couple operate a grain farm with a focus on soil health and biology, and are now using intercropping and companion cropping in their operation.

"The thing we probably notice the most is when we take a spade to the field, dig, and look at what we see. We're seeing better structure and we're seeing nicer colour. We're also seeing better water infiltration. Keeping it covered and keeping it growing is a very important part of our operation," said Derek.

Tannis also discussed where their focus lies in regards to the plant itself.

"Our focus isn't necessarily on the plant that's growing above the ground, but it's on the biological processes that occur underneath. We've started looking at what's occurring under there, what's missing, and trying to restore some balance," she said.

The Axtens had some tough competition for the title in the other couple Terry and Lichelle Aberhart from Langenburg.

Derek and Tannis Axten will move on to compete in the National Competition coming up in Penticton in November.