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DES MOINES -- Gov. Kim Reynolds, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig and Iowa Department of Natural Resources Director Kayla Lyon recognized 33 Iowa farm families with Iowa Farm Environmental Leader Awards during a ceremony at the 2026 Iowa State Fair.
The Iowa Farm Environmental Leader Award recognizes farmers and farm families who demonstrate outstanding voluntary efforts to improve and protect Iowa's soil and water resources while also serving as leaders in their communities. This year's recipients utilize a wide range of conservation practices, including cover crops, no-till and reduced tillage, nutrient management, grassed waterways, terraces, wetlands, saturated buffers, rotational grazing, prairie restoration and other proven practices that improve water quality, protect soil and strengthen the long-term productivity of Iowa's farmland.
“The Iowa Farm Environmental Leader Awards show how important it is that growers are trusted and empowered to pursue stewardship practices that allow them to thrive," said Reynolds. "The award winners we honor today are putting conservation at the center of everything they do. Congratulations to the 2026 recipients."
"Generations of Iowa farmers have helped build and sustain our country and make it the exceptional nation it is today. This has been possible because of our rich natural resources and we all have a responsibility to protect them," said Naig. "As we celebrate America's 250th anniversary, these 33 farm families are carrying that proud tradition of stewardship forward. Through their leadership and conservation efforts, they are protecting our soil, improving water quality and leaving our land in better condition for future generations. These conservation-focused families represent the very best of Iowa agriculture."
"We take great pride in honoring these leaders across our farming communities who put sound conservation at the forefront of their operations," said Lyon. "Their commitment to conservation is paving the way for future generations and encouraging other farmers to follow their example."
The 2026 recipients were selected by a committee representing conservation and agricultural organizations. As part of Iowa's America250 celebration, each of this year's recipients received a special America250 seal on their certificate and had their photo taken in front of an America250 backdrop.
The 2026 Iowa Farm Environmental Leader Award recipients from the area, listed alphabetically by last name, are:
• Jeremy and Norman Buck
Buck Farms
Marshall County
• Lawrence "Larry" Howard
Story County
• Riley Schnell
Jasper County
• Dallas Wessels
Pleasant Valley Family Farms
Grundy County
High-resolution photos will be available within one month of the ceremony on the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship's Flickr page.