By Andi Anderson
Nominations are now open for the prestigious 2024 Iowa Farm Environmental Leader Award, an initiative led by Governor Kim Reynolds, Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig, and Department of Natural Resources Director Kayla Lyon. This esteemed award recognizes the outstanding efforts of Iowa farmers and landowners who demonstrate exemplary environmental stewardship practices while contributing to the preservation of the state's natural resources.
Farmers and landowners across Iowa who implement proven practices to enhance water quality and promote sustainable farming methods are eligible for nomination. Additionally, nominees should exhibit leadership within the agricultural community, serving as role models for their peers. Since its inception in 2012, the award has honored 777 farm families for their commitment to environmental conservation.
To be considered for the 2024 award, nominations must be submitted by May 6, allowing ample time to recognize deserving individuals or families who embody the spirit of environmental stewardship in agriculture.
Governor Reynolds emphasizes the integral relationship between farming and environmental stewardship, praising the awardees for their dedication to feeding the world while preserving Iowa's natural resources for future generations.
Secretary Naig highlights Iowa's record-breaking achievements in conservation adoption, attributing much of the success to the efforts of dedicated farm families and landowners. He encourages Iowans to nominate deserving individuals or families from their communities who have made significant contributions to soil and water quality improvement.
Director Lyon underscores the importance of celebrating the achievements of farmers who have embraced conservation practices, acknowledging their profound impact on soil and water quality enhancement.
The award recipients will be honored during a special ceremony at the Iowa State Fair on August 14. Governor Reynolds, Lt. Governor Adam Gregg, Secretary Naig, and Director Lyon will present each awardee with a prestigious Iowa Farm Environmental Leader Award sign and certificate, recognizing their outstanding contributions to environmental conservation in agriculture.
Nominations can be submitted through the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship's website. An appointed committee comprising representatives from conservation and agricultural organizations will review the nominations and select the deserving winners.
Join in celebrating the achievements of Iowa's environmental leaders in agriculture by nominating deserving individuals or families for the 2024 Iowa Farm Environmental Leader Award. Together, honor those who have made a lasting impact on environmental conservation and sustainability in Iowa's vibrant agricultural community.
Photo Credit: pexels-nataliya-vaitkevich
Categories: Iowa, General