Statewide Iowa — Nominations are now being taken to recognize Iowa farmers who go above and beyond to conserve resources and the environment.
The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation is in its 73rd year of awarding the Iowa Conservation Farmer of the Year, which honors Iowa farmers committed to environmental stewardship and conservation. Farm Bureau president Brent Johnson says while Iowa is well known for its production capabilities, the award is a chance to highlight the conservation work.
One nominee is selected from all 99 counties and will be considered for nine regional awards. Those nine individuals would then vie for “Conservation Farmer of the Year.”
Johnson notes they are also looking for individuals who have continued innovating their conservation practices.
The winner of this year’s award — announced at the Iowa State Fair in August — will also receive free use of a John Deere 5M Series utility tractor for up to 12 months or 200 hours. Over the years, Johnson says he has heard of various ways farmers go about preserving the land and their resources.
Nominations are due May 10th, and forms are available at cdiowa.org/awards. The prize, valued at over $12,000, was donated by Van Well Equipment of Perry and John Deere.
