(DES MOINES) – Gov. Terry E. Branstad, Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds, Iowa Sec. of Agriculture Bill Northey and Iowa Department of Natural Resources Director Chuck Gipp today announced that 67 Iowa farmers will be recognized with the Iowa Farm Environmental Leader Award at the Iowa State Fair on Friday, Aug. 17 at 8:30 a.m. on the Knapp Stage.
“Environmental stewardship is an important aspect in Iowa’s agriculture industry and our state’s economic climate. The Lt. Governor and I are excited to be able to honor Iowa farmers who are true stewards of the land,” said Branstad.
The award was created to recognize the environmental efforts of Iowa’s farmers. The farmers that will be recognized have been nominated for the award due to the significant steps they have taken to serve as local leaders in environmental stewardship on their farms utilizing a variety of techniques and best management practices.
“The award recipients are recognized by this award for their responsible farming choices. Iowa farmers take great pride in their land and work and are truly making an impact towards conservation of farmland for future generations,” said Reynolds.
All winners were chosen by a selection group representing both conservation and agricultural groups.
“I appreciate the work of the selection committee to review the nominations and I’m excited to join Gov. Branstad, Lt. Gov. Reynolds and Director Gipp to recognize these deserving individuals,” Northey said. “This award is a great opportunity to recognize farmers that are doing a great job caring for the land and protecting Iowa’s waters, but also to encourage other farmers to follow in their footsteps.”
“Conservation is a legacy that benefits not only our citizens today, but the generations that follow. I can think of no better place than the Iowa State Fair to celebrate the success stories of farmers in helping conserve our precious natural resources,” said Gipp.
The selection group that approved the 2012 winners included Jim Gillespie from the Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship, Bruce Trautman from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Jim Frederick from the Conservation Districts of Iowa, John Lawrence from Iowa State University Extension, Sean McMahon from The Nature Conservancy, Jeff Pape from the Iowa Farm Bureau, Jay Lynch from the Iowa Corn Growers Association, Jim Andrew from the Iowa Soybean Association, Pat Daufeldt from the Iowa Turkey Federation, and Dave Moody from the Iowa Pork Producers Association.
