Nominations are now open for the 2023 Iowa Conservation Farmer of the Year. The annual award is given to an Iowa farmer who has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to environmental stewardship and leadership. 

The statewide honor and nine regional awards are co-sponsored by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) and the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF). The grand prize 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 is donated by Van Wall Equipment of Perry and John Deere.   

One nominee will be selected by each of Iowa’s 100 Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) of­fices to be considered for regional conservation awards. 

Nine regional award winners will compete for the title of “Iowa Conservation Farmer of the Year.” 

“Iowa agriculture is well known as a national leader in production, but we’re also leading the way in conservation progress,” said Iowa Farm Bureau President Brent Johnson. “We have a great story to tell when it comes to precision agriculture and our focus on sustainability, and IFBF is honored to co-sponsor this award with (IDALS) and celebrate our successful statewide conservation ef­forts.”  

Iowans can nominate a deserving farmer by writing a 100-word letter describing the individual’s long-term commitment to soil conservation and water quality. Nominations are due to the local SWCD by May 12. 

The statewide winner will be announced at the Iowa State Fair in August. The winner will receive the keys to their tractor during the Conservation Districts of Iowa’s annual meeting Aug. 28-29 in Ames.