Local farmers were recognized Tuesday at the Lockhart-Taylor Center.

Awards were given out in different categories at the Anson County Farm-City Week Banquet. Hundreds of citizens attended the banquet, eating dinner and enjoying conversation with others.

The meal itself was provided by the Anson Cattlemen's Association.

One in five jobs in North Carolina is related to agriculture, according to 4-H agent Roshunda Blount. This makes it the top industry in the state.

While farming remains a staple of the local economy, farmers have seen a lot of change.

In the year 1900, 90 percent of the population farmed, Todd Moore, a Pee Dee Electric employee and local poultry farmer, said. Now, only 3 percent of the population farms.

A Peachland couple shared the honor of the 2010 Outstanding Farmer. H.L Carpenter and his wife, Charlie Ann, who keep bees, were recognized for their outstanding work and positions as leaders and volunteers.

The pair keep an estimated 1 million bees in their hives and the industrious insects help fertilize crops in a five-mile radius.

According to Aimee Marshall, agricultural extension agent, bees are responsible for fertilizing 80 percent of the crops in the U.S. She said North Carolina has the most bee colonies of any state in the country.

In addition to their work, the Carpenters volunteer to teach local schoolchildren about bees and beekeeping.

Hildreth Wood Products was honored as the year's Outstanding Agribusiness.

The recipients of the Brown Creek Soil and Water Conservation District Awards were Danny Wright and BB&T.

Jamie Cole and family were named the 2010 Anson County Conservation Farm Family while Robert Ross earned the Distinguished Service Award.

Parsons Pharmacy, which Wadesboro Town Manager John Witherspoon described as a "local icon," was given this year's Small Business Recognition.

The final award was the Corporate Leader Recognition. This honor went to Premiere Fibers.

Anson County director of economic development Misty Harris lauded the business's contributions to the community. Last year, employees gave $12,000 to the United Way.

The banquet is part of a number of events leading up to the Anson Ag Expo & Fair on Sept. 25. A youth livestock show was also held as a part of the Ag Fair Sept. 24 and 25.