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News & Events

Apply for NRCS Programs By 12/18

Producers in Indiana who are interested in conservation practices are encouraged to contact their local NRCS office. Contact: Cassandra Vondran, DC Grant County, 1113 E 4th St, Marion, IN 46952, 765-668-8983

While NRCS accepts applications year-round, interested agricultural producers in Indiana should apply by December 18 to be considered for fiscal year 2027 funding. Programs include:

  • Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP)

  • Conservation Stewardship Program  (CSP)

  • Environmental Quality Incentives Program  (EQIP)

  • Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP)

Women 4theLand

On August 26, Grant and Huntington County Soil & Water Conservation Districts hosted a Women 4theLand Learning Circle at the Café of Hope in Huntington.

The morning session focused on bees and pollinators, with a presentation by Jon Clark of Bees and Such in Swayzee, Indiana. Following lunch, participants traveled to Barnyard Berries to learn about their unique approach to growing and harvesting strawberries.

Women 4theLand Learning Circles provide women farmers and landowners with opportunities to gain practical information, connect with helpful resources, and network with other women who share an interest in agriculture and land stewardship.

We appreciate everyone who participated and helped make this year’s event a great opportunity for learning, conversation, and connection.

Local Farmers Honored with 2026 River Friendly Farmer Award at Indiana State Fair

Grant County farmers Andy Clock and Don Wright were recognized on Tuesday, August 18, at the Indiana State Fairgrounds for their outstanding commitment to conservation and land stewardship during the 2026 River Friendly Farmer Award Ceremony.

Approximately 200 farmers, family members, conservation partners, and guests gathered during the Indiana State Fair to celebrate this year’s River Friendly Farmer Award recipients. The ceremony honored farmers who have implemented proven conservation practices—such as cover crops, no-till farming, field borders, and other innovative approaches—to reduce erosion, improve water quality, and build healthy soils. These efforts help protect Indiana’s rivers, streams, and lakes while contributing to healthier waterways far beyond the state’s borders.

The River Friendly Farmer Award is a program of the Indiana Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts (IASWCD) and Indiana’s 92 Soil and Water Conservation Districts.

The 2026 River Friendly Farmer Award Ceremony is proudly sponsored by:

  • Indiana Farm Bureau
  • The Nature Conservancy
  • Indiana Corn Marketing Council
  • Indiana Soybean Alliance
  • Indiana State Department of Agriculture
Andy Clock
Don Wright (with his wife)