By Andi Anderson
Nominations are now open for the prestigious 2024 Iowa Conservation Farmer of the Year award, marking its 73rd year of recognizing outstanding environmental stewardship and conservation efforts among Iowa farmers. Co-sponsored by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) and the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF), this esteemed award celebrates farmers who demonstrate a strong commitment to soil conservation and water quality improvement initiatives.
The grand prize winner of the Iowa Conservation Farmer of the Year award will have the honor of utilizing a new John Deere 5M utility tractor for one year, courtesy of long-time award supporters Van Wall Equipment of Perry and John Deere.
Last year’s recipient of the Iowa Conservation Farmer of the Year award, Dan Voss, a farmer from Linn County, was commended for his decades-long dedication to implementing innovative conservation practices aimed at enhancing soil health and water quality in Iowa, all while actively sharing his knowledge and experiences with fellow farmers.
To nominate a deserving farmer for this esteemed award, individuals can visit www.cdiowa.org/awards and complete a brief nomination form outlining the nominee’s significant conservation efforts and their commitment to soil improvement. Nominations must be submitted by May 10, 2024, to the local Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) office.
Mike Naig, Iowa’s Secretary of Agriculture, emphasized the vital role farmers play in safeguarding the state's natural resources, stating, “Iowa’s farmers and landowners continue to go above and beyond to be good stewards of our land while feeding the nation.”
Brent Johnson, President of the IFBF, highlighted the importance of recognizing and celebrating farmers who lead by example in conservation efforts, stating, “We all have a role to play in protecting Iowa’s soil health and water quality, and this award recognizes the innovation and dedication of farmers who are making significant strides in conservation progress.”
Each of Iowa’s 99 county SWCD offices will select one nominee for consideration for regional conservation awards. From these nominees, nine regional award winners will vie for the title of “Iowa’s Conservation Farmer of the Year.” The winner will be announced during the Iowa State Fair, with the keys to their tractor presented during the Conservation Districts of Iowa annual meeting in Ames on August 19-20, 2024.
The recipient of the 2024 statewide Conservation Farmer of the Year award will enjoy the use of a John Deere 5M Series utility tractor free of charge for up to 12 months or 200 hours of use, a prize valued at over $12,000, generously donated by Van Wall Equipment of Perry and John Deere.
Photo Credit -gettyimages-sisoje
Categories: Iowa, Crops, General