Fifty-three Indiana farmers were recognized on August 6 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds for their exceptional commitment to conservation and land stewardship during the 2025 River Friendly Farmer Award Ceremony.
The ceremony honored farmers who have implemented proven conservation practices—such as cover crops, no-till farming, and field borders—to reduce erosion, improve water quality, and build healthy soils. These efforts not only protect Indiana’s rivers, streams, and lakes, but also contribute to the health of waterways far beyond state lines.
A shared theme among this year’s recipients is leaving the land better than they found it. Many are multi-generational farm families who see soil health and sustainable practices not only as essential to farm success today, but also as their legacy for the future.
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 2025 River Friendly Farmer Award winners locally were: Sellers Grain Service LLC in Marshall County, Jon and Jennifer Cook, along with Andy Zartman from Fulton County, and Hazelton Farms, along with K&D Bennett Farms, LLC, in Starke County.
Thacker takes over at Good Samaritan Hospital
Lawrenceville arrests
Lawrence County residents warned to get vaccinated
More than one-third of Christmas tree home fires occur in January
Lawrence County girl advances to state competition
Local woman faces multiple charges
Over 550 personalized license plate requests rejected
Warning of holiday text scams
Illinois AG highlights new law going into effect
Federal healthcare dollars headed to Illinois
Local man held on multiple charges
Gov. Braun, AG Rokita ask Federal Court to lift 20-year ban on Historical Monument at Indiana Statehouse
Strong storms roll through region
GSH approves 2026 budget
Sumner boil order ends, trash pickup delayed
IDNR revises waterfowl zone
Two Lawrence County men charged
2026 Miss Illinois County Fair Pageant coming in January
Unit #20 Board hears about heat and new athletic facility proposal
