Four area farm families are being celebrated statewide for putting conservation first — earning Iowa’s Farm Environmental Leader Award.
They were among the 33 farm families honored at the Iowa State Fair this month by Governor Kim Reynolds, Iowa Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig and Iowa Department of Natural Resources Director Kayla Lyon.
The award recognizes farmers who voluntarily adopt conservation practices that protect soil health, improve water quality and strengthen long‑term productivity. This year’s recipients use a range of practices, including cover crops, no‑till and reduced tillage, nutrient management, terraces, wetlands, saturated buffers, rotational grazing and prairie restoration.
Area families recognized include:
- Kim and Chad Kischer of Buena Vista County, who operate farmland near Alta. They received the award for conservation improvements that support both soil and water quality.
- Neil and Sandy Krummen of Clay County, farming near Royal, were honored for their conservation leadership.
- Sharon L. Chism of Palo Alto County, who farms near Emmetsburg, was honored for long‑standing conservation work on her operation.
- Andrew and Matthew Hurd of M & A Farms in Sac County, farming near Odebolt, were recognized for soil health practices including cover crops and reduced tillage.
State officials say these families represent the best of Iowa agriculture, carrying forward a tradition of stewardship as the state marks America’s 250th anniversary. Since the program began in 2012, 894 Iowa farm families have received the award.
Each 2026 recipient received a certificate featuring a special America250 seal and a commemorative photo at the State Fair.
