Date:
7/11/2006 12:00:00 AM
Title:
Iowa Farm Wins Top Environmental Award
For Immediate Release
Clan Farms is ESAP Region III Winner
Washington, D.C. (July 11, 2006) – The Hunt family of Clan Farms in Atlantic, Iowa is one of seven Regional Winners in the 16th annual Environmental Stewardship Award Program (ESAP). The award program recognizes cattle operations that are proven stewards of the land, dedicated to natural resource conservation through the use of innovative, cost effective stewardship practices.
Located in southwestern Iowa’s East Nishnabotna River bottom, Clan Farms was nominated by the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association. They were selected from entries submitted within the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA)’s Region III, which includes Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Wisconsin and Minnesota.
“Our program acknowledges producers like the Hunt family who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to preserve natural resources,” explains Stacey Katseanes, ESAP coordinator. “The Hunt family demonstrates how today’s ranchers can utilize innovative approaches to problem-solving while maintaining an environmentally-friendly business.”
Nick and Sue Hunt and daughters Liz and Carolyn are the fourth generation of a farm family that has tended the land and its natural resources since 1868. The 2,400 acre farm exemplifies environmental stewardship in the management of a 3,400 head feedlot as well as a 120 head cow-calf herd and farming operation that includes corn, soybeans and alfalfa.
“The Hunts actively work to preserve their natural surroundings and maintain a viable operation in the East Nishnabotna River watershed,” says Katseanes. “Water conservation is a top priority, and the family has worked with state and federal agencies to create riparian buffer strips and to plant hundreds of trees to prevent soil erosion along the operation’s waterways.”
Most recently, the Hunt family completed a conservation project in their feedlot which includes an 11-acre basin to capture all feedlot runoff water which is used fertilize and irrigate their 120 acre corn field. Because of these efforts, the feedlot is certified by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources as ‘totally contained’ for rainfall runoff.
“The environmental enhancements made throughout the many facets of Clan Farms make the Hunt family a model for other farms and ranches to emulate,” says Katseanes. “And, many nearby ranchers are taking notice. Following the Hunts’ lead, many area operators have adopted similar approaches to soil and water management.”
The Hunt family not only proactively manages the natural terrain around them but is also dedicated to efforts in the surrounding community. They are in close contact with neighbors and employ practices such as drop down irrigation nozzles to minimize odor. Clan Farms also maintains an acutely accurate nutrient management plan. “As farmers, we need to be upfront with our neighbors. We need to discuss with them why we do the necessary things to operate our farms efficiently, such as applying manure to crop ground, or building large storage basins to prevent any pollution of our waterways,” says Nick Hunt.
"Four generations of Hunt families have served as role models for community improvement,” says neighbor David Nichols. “When Cass County community projects are proposed, you can bet the farm a member of the Hunt family will have their sleeves rolled up, ready to help."
“Good stewardship is important for economic benefit and can greatly add to your bottom line,” says Hunt. “But even more importantly, good stewardship is crucial for maintaining the farm for future generations, and maintaining a positive public perception of farmers.”
The Environmental Stewardship Award Program, now in its 16th year, is sponsored by Dow AgroSciences LLC and the Natural Resources Conservation Service and is administered by NCBA. The 2006 National Winner will be selected from of the seven ESAP Regional Winners and revealed at the 2007 Cattle Industry Convention in Nashville, Tennessee next February. For additional information, contact NCBA’s Washington D.C. office at 202-347-0228.
~ visit our web site at
www.beefusa.org ~
The National
Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) is the largest organization representing
America’s cattle industry. Initiated in 1898, NCBA is the industry leader in
education, influencing public policy to improve producer profitability and in
preserving the industry’s heritage and future. Efforts are made possible
through membership contributions. To join, contact NCBA at 1-866-BEEF-USA or
membership@beef.org.