Agricultural Environmental Management Award

2007 Winners – The R.L. Jeffres & Sons Farm and the Wyoming County SWCD

With three generations of the Jeffres family farming, experience shows that protecting the environment and being a good neighbor help to maintain a thriving farm business. Winners of the 2007 AEM Award, the R.L. Jeffres & Sons Farm and the Wyoming County Soil and Water Conservation District were recognized for their ability to protect water quality while maximizing the potential of the family business.

Farming for nearly a century, this family has a long-standing commitment to conservation. In fact, the Jeffres were the first farmers in the county to partner with their District back in 1941, and one of the first farms to participate in AEM. District Manager Greg McKurth said, “The family has implemented a tremendous number of conservation practices, and they are always working to maintain and improve them.”

The Jeffres’ 7,800 acre crop farm grows corn, peas, dry beans, snap beans, beets, carrots, alfalfa and wheat. Using Integrated Pest Management, they scout and assess insects to limit pesticide use. More than 30 acres of buffer strips have been planted along streams. They planted cover crops, installed strip crops diversion ditches and over 100 miles of drainage tile to minimize soil erosion and nutrient runoff, while maximizing crop yields. The family is also part owners in a 2,000 cow dairy, completing a Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan to conserve soil, recycle nutrients, and save on fertilizer costs.

“When you live off the land, there is no greater resource than the soil and water that surrounds your business,” said Commissioner Hooker. “Farmers like the Jeffres recognize this, and are working through their District AEM programs to produce wholesome products and protect our environment.”