Virginia farmers recognized for outstanding efforts in protecting water and soil resources
Richmond, Virginia – Governor Glenn Youngkin has announced the winners of the 2024 Virginia Grand Basin Clean Water Farm Awards, recognizing nine exceptional farmers and landowners for their leadership in environmental conservation. The awards celebrate individuals who demonstrate outstanding commitment to protecting Virginia’s water and soil resources while maintaining agricultural productivity. Winners are chosen from each of Virginia’s major river basins, highlighting the statewide impact of their efforts.
Leading the Charge for Clean Water
“Virginia’s farmers are at the forefront of protecting our streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay,” said Governor Youngkin. “The Grand Basin Clean Water Farm Award winners are exemplary stewards of our natural resources. Their leadership in conservation is a testament to the central role agriculture plays in preserving the beauty and vitality of the Commonwealth.”
Sponsored by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and Virginia’s 47 soil and water conservation districts, the awards honor farmers who have implemented best management practices to protect water quality. These practices include planting cover crops, rotational grazing systems, livestock stream exclusion, and no-till farming techniques, which help reduce runoff and improve soil health.
Recognizing Innovation in Conservation
“I applaud these farmers for their dedication to safeguarding Virginia’s natural resources,” said Travis Voyles, Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources. “Their innovative use of conservation practices is critical to achieving our clean water goals while preserving the Commonwealth’s natural heritage.”
This year’s winners include farms that preserve historically significant sites, such as Clermont Farm in Clarke County, surveyed by George Washington in 1750, and The Rocklands Foundation in Orange County, a Virginia Historic Landmark. These farms not only maintain agricultural productivity but also protect cultural and historical treasures.
“The recipients of this year’s awards showcase the harmony between agricultural innovation and environmental stewardship,” said Matthew Lohr, Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry. “These farms demonstrate that a thriving agricultural economy and a clean, healthy environment go hand-in-hand.”
Strong Partnerships for Success
The DCR plays a key role in supporting farmers’ conservation efforts, providing resources that enable sustainable practices. “DCR is proud to support programs that help farmers adopt sustainable practices,” said DCR Director Matthew Wells. “These award recipients have shown an extraordinary commitment to conservation and their success underscores the importance of collaboration in achieving a cleaner, healthier environment.”
Local soil and water conservation districts have been instrumental in guiding farmers to implement these conservation efforts. Dr. Kendall Tyree, executive director of the Virginia Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts, highlighted the vital partnerships that make this progress possible: “District staff and the farmers they work with are committed to enhancing practices that protect and enrich our natural resources. We are grateful for the opportunity to support the agricultural community and look forward to strengthening these partnerships for the benefit of our land and waterways.”
2024 Grand Basin Clean Water Farm Award Winners
The winners of this year’s prestigious awards represent diverse regions across Virginia, showcasing how effective conservation practices are being implemented statewide:
- Big Sandy – Upper Tennessee Basin
David and Jeff Spence, Spence Brothers Farm – Smyth County
Nominated by Evergreen Soil and Water Conservation District - Coastal Basin
Nathan Eulo, Eulo Farms – Town of Accomac
Nominated by Eastern Shore Soil and Water Conservation District - James River Basin
The W. Copley and Margaret K. McLean Family, Swift Run Farm – Greene County
Nominated by Culpeper Soil and Water Conservation District - New-Yadkin River Basin
Jennings Family, Jennings Farm – Carroll County
Nominated by New River Soil and Water Conservation District - Potomac River Basin
Vanessa Sandin, Pohick Farm – Fauquier County
Nominated by John Marshall Soil and Water Conservation District - Rappahannock River Basin
O. Bruce Gupton, The Rocklands Foundation – Orange County
Nominated by Culpeper Soil and Water Conservation District - Roanoke River Basin
Lanier Easley, Easley Farm – Pittsylvania County
Nominated by Pittsylvania Soil and Water Conservation District - Shenandoah River Basin
The Clermont Foundation, Clermont Farm – Clarke County
Nominated by Lord Fairfax Soil and Water Conservation District - York River Basin
Bruce and Katherine Johnson, Dragonfly Farms – Louisa County
Nominated by Thomas Jefferson Soil and Water Conservation District
Protecting Virginia’s Future
Virginia’s farmers have long played a critical role in the state’s environmental conservation. These award winners demonstrate that by implementing best management practices, agriculture can be both productive and environmentally responsible. Their efforts help protect water quality in major rivers, support wildlife habitats, and ensure the vitality of farming communities.
Governor Youngkin emphasized the broader importance of their work: “These farmers serve as leaders and role models in conservation, helping to preserve Virginia’s natural beauty for future generations.”
For more information and detailed descriptions of each winning farm, visit the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation website at www.dcr.virginia.gov.
The 2024 Virginia Grand Basin Clean Water Farm Award winners embody the spirit of environmental stewardship and innovation. Their commitment to sustainable practices ensures cleaner waterways, healthier soil, and stronger farming communities across the Commonwealth. Through collaboration and dedication, Virginia’s agricultural leaders continue to shape a brighter, more sustainable future for all.
