PRESQUE ISLE – A Limestone man who grows 1,200 acres of potatoes with his family will join the ranks of other elite growers in the state in being named the Maine Potato Board’s 2006 Young Farmer of the Year.

The MPB announced Wednesday they were bestowing the accolade on Trevor Michaud, a full-time grower for 10 years.

Tim Hobbs, director of development and grower relations for the board, called Michaud an “asset to the industry.”

“Trevor and his family have remained competitive in the marketplace through sound management practices and attention to quality,” he added.

Michaud attended Limestone High School before going on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Husson College in Bangor. He then returned to the family farm.

In concert with the 1,200 acres of potatoes, Michaud and his family grow an equal acreage of grain crops. Michaud also serves as president of the state’s Agricultural Bargaining Council, which negotiates produce contracts on behalf of its membership.

Michaud was not available for comment Wednesday, but said in a written statement that he attributed his family’s success to “maintaining a top-notch operation and a positive state of mind.”

The Limestone man, who works with his father, Gil Michaud of Gilles Michaud Farms, said he believes his family’s success depends on continuing work in the processing sector.

“Contributing to products that emphasize quick, easy meals with culinary convenience is the way to go,” he explained.

Michaud resides in Limestone with his wife, Danielle, and daughter, Emily.