Debbie Pertuset credits her grandfather with sparking an interest in farming and livestock that has lasted throughout her life.

Pertuset, who still uses the old Ford tractor her grandfather taught her how to drive, was recently chosen as 2009 Scioto County Outstanding Farm Woman by the Scioto Soil and Water Conservation District.

Each year the conservation district recognizes a Scioto County woman for her commitment to conservation and dedication to agriculture, said the district’s Jeff Montavon.

He said Pertuset’s hard work ethic and devotion to her farming operation were important qualities that earned her the recognition as the county’s Outstanding Farm Woman.

She was raised on a Hereford cattle farm near Wheelersburg. She and her husband, James, have two children.

She co-owns and manages Green Top Farm, a 75-acre operation where she raises Boer goats for 4-H members and for commercial sale. As a young girl, she kept goats and said she loved working with them and loved life in general on the farm.

She’s in on the day-by-cay care and feeding of her animals, and said all of them have a name they recognize.

Pertuset also acts as the farm’s veterinarian, tending to sick animals. She spends countless hours in the barns attending to the new-born kids and their mothers.

When hay is being baled, James Pertuset said, his wife is right there on the wagon behind the baler, loading it on and helping to stack it in the barn.

She’s busy on the farm, but never too busy that she can’t take an active part in the community, Montavon said. For years she has been a 4-H group advisor, helping the young 4-H members in raising and preparing to show their goats, lambs and pigs. She helps members with the weighing of animals, trimming hoofs, shearing goats and giving helpful advice wherever she can.

Pertuset also volunteers, Montavon said, to work in the Scioto County 4-H office and also in Northwest schools. She teaches Sunday school classes at her church.

She’s an overall positive influence in the community, Montavon said.

G. SAM PIATT can be reached at (740) 353-3101, ext. 236.