Nominations are now being sought to recognize the 2022 Iowa Conservation Farmer of the Year.  

The statewide and regional awards, co-sponsored by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) and the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF), honor Iowa farmers who have distinguished track records of commitment to soil conservation and water quality improvement efforts. The grand prize winner will receive the use of a new John Deere 6E utility tractor for one year. 

To nominate a farmer for the award, visit www.cdiowa.org/awards for a short form summarizing the nominee’s conservation efforts. Nominations are due May 13. 

“Everyone has a role to play in protecting Iowa’s soil and water quality, and this award showcases the exemplary efforts of farmers who are leading by example and making big strides in conservation,” says IFBF President Brent Johnson. “Recognizing and celebrating farmers’ conservation achievements and sharing examples of successful innovative conservation practices can help encourage others to embrace proven practices to improve our water quality.” 

One nominee will be selected by each of Iowa’s 99 county Soil and Water Conservation District offices to be considered for regional conservation awards. Nine regional award winners will compete for the title of Iowa’s Conservation Farmer of the Year.

The winner will be announced during the Iowa State Fair and will receive the keys to their tractor during the Conservation Districts of Iowa annual meeting in September. The Conservation Farmer of the Year winner will receive free use of a John Deere 6E Series utility tractor for up to 12 months or 200 hours of use. The prize, valued at more than $12,000, is donated by Farm Bureau partner Van Wall Equipment of Perry and John Deere.