Morris Telford, a native of Smith Township, was a man of many firsts, which was apparent in his farming practices.  Morris was one of the first farmers in Smith Township to own a tractor, a self-propelled combine, a self-propelled harvester as well as becoming a distributor for Minneapolis Moline and Fox equipment.  He felt that to be a success, it was important to move ahead with new initiatives and advancements.  With these additions to his farm he was able to help other farmers in the area improve their crop production.  In 1965 Morris had the largest silo erected in the county and using the lumber from the family-owned woodlot built a large shed and hay barn.  Morris believed that a family farm needed to be sustainable to be profitable.

Morris was a cattleman first and foremost and eagerly joined the Beef Improvement Association and Weaning Weight Programs as they were introduced in the county, advocating that these programs would be advantageous to the cattle industry.

He encouraged the promotion of farming by hosting school trips, farm tours and 4-H clubs.

Morris Telford also felt that building a strong community was essential and was involved with the Chemong Public School as a trustee, as church treasurer and choir member for 50 years and as a member of the local Rotary Service Club.

Recognition and awards were given to Morris from several sources: the Centennial award for Contribution to Agriculture, a county Leadership award and winner of the Holiday Inn Burger Challenge in 2009.

Nominated by Wayne and Marg Telford , DonWay Farm 2016