Seeking Ohio’s conservation leaders

COLUMBUS — Nominations are being accepted for the statewide 2011 Ohio .

The awards program is co-sponsored by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Soil and Water Resources, Ohio Farmer magazine and the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation.

Since 1984, the Conservation Farmer Awards Program has recognized Ohio farm families who are doing an outstanding job of managing natural and human resources in such a way as to meet both production and conservation goals.

Nominations

Individual farmers, partnerships or family farm corporations are eligible for nomination, provided a substantial portion of their income is derived from farming.

Judging is based on the nominee’s use of new and traditional conservation techniques; comprehensive management; individual initiative in applying conservation measures; and the nominee’s willingness to share conservation information, experiences and philosophy with others.

Families recognized

Five area finalists will be chosen from around the state.

These top conservation farm families will be recognized at the annual Farm Science Review in September. They will also receive a $400 check courtesy of the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation and be featured in the September issue of Ohio Farmer magazine.

Nomination forms can be obtained from your local county soil and water conservation districts or by visiting the division’s Web site. They must be returned by May 1 to Ohio Farmer, 117 W. Main St., Suite 202, Lancaster, OH 43130.