Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers along with the Nebraska Beef Council have announced the launch of the 3rd annual Nebraska’s Best Burger contest. Nominations for the award will be accepted March 1 through March 31, 2013.

The public is encouraged to nominate their favorite burger by visiting www.nebeef.org and completing the online form or visiting the Nebraska Beef Council Facebook Page.

The top prize last year went to Stella’s Bar & Grill of Bellevue for their Stella’s Cheese Burger.

Changes to the contest this year include the addition of the Consumer’s Choice award which will be presented to the restaurant receiving the most overall electronic votes.

The top 5 nominated burgers will then be evaluated by a panel of judges to determine the overall Best Burger winner. While any restaurant can win the new Consumer’s Choice award, past grand prize winners are not eligible for the Best Burger award meaning a new winner will be announced the end of April. The Cellar Bar & Grill in Kearney, NE won the inaugural award in 2011.