A new program to recognize and honor farmers who distinguish themselves for taking care of the environment - and still reap economic returns from their farms - kicks off this month. In fact, if you attend the Commodity Classic in San Antonio on Feb. 25-27, the American Soybean Association (ASA) will officially unveil the Conservation Legacy Award.
"It's designed to promote conservation and good stewardship by recognizing producers who use innovative and effective conservation practices," says Tony Anderson, ASA president and farmer from Mt. Sterling, OH.
Award winners will be selected from nominations/applications received by ASA. Four regional and one national winner will be named by a selection committee including farmers, environmentalists and industry representatives.
Nomination/application forms are available from the ASA Web site (SoyGrowers.com) or by calling 800-688-7692. All soybean farmers are eligible to participate.
"Farmers have been, and remain today, the primary environmental stewards. These awards will recognize those farmers and share their stories with the public," says Anderson.
Program sponsors are ASA, Monsanto and Soybean Digest.