For many years, Madison County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) has honored individuals and families that have done outstanding work conserving natural resources and exemplifying what is means to be a steward of the land.
This year, the Madison SWCD recognized Downs Family Farm with the 2023 Conservation Award. Commissioners presented an award sign to Steve and Kim Downs on Wednesday, July 19 at the Madison County Fair.
Downs Family Farm is owned by brothers Steve Downs and Howard Downs, and has been in operation for 30 years. They grow corn and soybeans using minimum tillage methods, and started using cover crops in 2022. They do grid sampling every three years, and apply nutrients based on soil test recommendations. Other conservation practices include terraces, grassed waterways, a silt pond, and CRP on highly erodible acres.
Steve and Howard’s reasons for incorporating these practices is to take care of the farm so they can pass it down to the next generation!
Madison SWCD would like to thank the Madison County Fair Board for providing an opportunity for to present the conservation award, and Madison County Farm Bureau for sponsoring the award sign.
Madison County Soil and Water Conservation District is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Photo courtesy of Vicki Minor, Winterset Madisonian.
Pictured from left to right: Jim Gillespie, Assistant Commissioner; Jason Hirsch, Commissioner; Kim Downs and Steve Downs, Conservation Award Recipient; Tim Palmer, Commissioner