Three local farm families from southeast Iowa are among 33 recipients honored with Iowa Farm Environmental Leader Awards at a ceremony held Wednesday, August 19th at the 2026 Iowa State Fair, according to a press release from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.
The award, presented by Governor Kim Reynolds, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig, and Iowa Department of Natural Resources Director Kayla Lyon, recognizes farmers and farm families who demonstrate outstanding voluntary efforts to improve and protect Iowa’s soil and water resources while also serving as leaders in their communities.
The three local recipients are JD and David Hollingsworth of Hollingsworth Farms in Jefferson County, Kevin and Pamela Luers of Keokuk County, and Gene De Bruin of Mahaska County.
This year’s recipients utilize a wide range of conservation practices including cover crops, no-till and reduced tillage, nutrient management, grassed waterways, terraces, wetlands, saturated buffers, rotational grazing, prairie restoration, and other proven practices that improve water quality, protect soil, and strengthen the long-term productivity of Iowa’s farmland.
Secretary Naig praised the honorees in the context of America’s 250th anniversary. “Generations of Iowa farmers have helped build and sustain our country and make it the exceptional nation it is today,” Naig said. “As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, these 33 farm families are carrying that proud tradition of stewardship forward. Through their leadership and conservation efforts, they are protecting our soil, improving water quality and leaving our land in better condition for future generations.”
Governor Reynolds also offered congratulations to this year’s recipients. “The Iowa Farm Environmental Leader Awards show how important it is that growers are trusted and empowered to pursue stewardship practices that allow them to thrive,” Reynolds said. “The award winners we honor today are putting conservation at the center of everything they do.”
Director Lyon added: “Their commitment to conservation is paving the way for future generations and encouraging other farmers to follow their example.”
The 2026 recipients were selected by a committee representing conservation and agricultural organizations. Since the Iowa Farm Environmental Leader Award was created in 2012, 894 Iowa farm families have received the recognition. As part of Iowa’s America250 celebration, each recipient received a special America250 seal on their certificate.
