VIDALIA, GA - The Vidalia Onion Committee (VOC) proudly hosted its annual awards banquet to recognize individuals whose dedication, innovation, and leadership have significantly contributed to the Vidalia onion industry. This year's honorees exemplify the hard work and vision that continue to uphold the legacy of Georgia’s State Vegetable.

MHD & Son: 2024 Grower of the Year

The Grower of the Year Award was presented to MHD & Son, owned and operated by Herschel Durrence of Mendes, Georgia. This award honors a producer who has demonstrated excellence in quality production, industry compliance, and contributions to the Vidalia onion community.

Durrence, a lifelong farmer, began his Vidalia onion journey in 2014 with just 50 acres. His dedication and strategic growth have expanded his farm to 250 acres for the 2025 season, making Vidalia onions his primary focus. In 2022, he co-purchased a packing facility in Evans County, furthering his commitment to industry advancement.

“Being named Grower of the Year is a tremendous honor,” said Durrence. “I’m proud to be part of this elite group of farmers who work hard every season to maintain the high standards of the Vidalia onion.”

Durrence credits his wife, Jayla, and their four children for their unwavering support. “Farming is a family effort, and I couldn’t do it without them,” he said. “From helping in the fields to handling paperwork and operations, every member of my family plays a role.”

Ed Tensley: A Pioneer Inducted into the Vidalia Onion Hall of Fame

The Vidalia Onion Hall of Fame honors individuals who have significantly contributed to the growth, protection, and promotion of Vidalia onions. This year, the committee posthumously inducted Ed Tensley, a trailblazer in Georgia’s sweet onion industry.

Born in 1895 in North Carolina, Tensley, a World War I veteran, later pursued agricultural studies before settling in Glennville, GA, in the 1940s. He became a leading figure in the Vidalia onion movement, helping to establish it as a staple crop. As one of the first farmers in Tattnall County to plant onions, Tensley was instrumental in educating others on cultivation techniques.

“At the time, the onion was known as the Georgia sweet onion, and later, Dad went to Vidalia and taught them how to grow it too,” recalled his daughter.

A pioneer in mechanized agriculture, Tensley was the first farmer in Tattnall County to use a tractor and introduced crop rotation practices for soil health and yield improvement. Beyond farming, he was a dedicated community leader, donating the first school bus for African American children in his area to ensure access to education.

Tensley passed away in 1972, but his contributions to the Vidalia onion industry remain influential 50 years later.

Cliff Riner: Recognized for Leadership and Service

The evening also honored Cliff Riner of G&R Farms for his three years of service as Chairman of the Vidalia Onion Committee. Under Riner’s leadership, the committee navigated key industry advancements, ensuring the continued success of Vidalia onion farmers.

A champion of research, sustainability, and marketing, Riner played a critical role in maintaining quality standards, brand protection, and regulatory compliance.

“Serving as chairman has been a privilege,” Riner said. “The Vidalia onion industry is built on generations of hardworking farmers, and I am proud to have played a role in shaping its future.”

Looking to the Future

As the Vidalia Onion Committee continues to celebrate industry pioneers, it also looks ahead to new innovations, partnerships, and growth opportunities. This year’s award recipients exemplify the resilience, ingenuity, and passion that define the Vidalia onion farming community.

The committee congratulates MHD & Son, Ed Tensley, and Cliff Riner on their well-deserved honors and thanks them for their lasting contributions to the industry.