Chuck Habstritt recently retired from the University of Minnesota, Crookston was presented The Achievement in Crop Improvement Award at the 2010 MCIA Annual Meeting. It is MCIA's highest honor and is presented annually to recognize exemplary service by an individual to the seed industry. Throughout his career Chuck has shown dedication to the seed industry, encouraged the production of high quality seed and demonstrated leadership in agriculture and the local community.

He has been an instructor at the U of M, Crookston for 40 years, using a hands on approach to teaching students agronomy, soil science and seed conditioning. In addition to teaching he has coached a very successful UMC crops judging team for over 30 years.  Students have benefited greatly from his instruction and advice. Among the numerous honors he has received, he was named "Outstanding Educator" by students and faculty at the U of M, Crookston several times.

He has a direct connection to the seed industry, as he continues to be involved in the family farm and seed business located near Roseau. Started by his father and grandfather, Habstritt Farms Inc. produces, conditions and distributes small grains and turf grass seed. On the farm is where he learned the basics of crop production and seed conditioning while working with a wide variety of crops.

Chuck served six years on the MCIA Board of Directors and has been active in a variety of seed related organizations. The Achievement in Crop Improvement Award is sponsored by the Farm Progress Companies publisher of "The Farmer" magazine. Paula Mohr, Editor of "The Farmer" made the presentation to Chuck and his wife Kris at the MCIA Annual Meeting held January 7-8 at the Shooting Star Casino Hotel in Mahnomen, Minnesota.