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Deadline for submitting nomination forms is May 1

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Nominations are now being accepted for the 2008 Conservation Farm Family Awards. The awards program is coordinated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Soil & Water Conservation and co-sponsored by Ohio Farmer Magazine and the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation.

Nomination forms can be obtained from county Soil & Water Conservation Districts, local Ohio Farm Bureau Federation offices, or Ohio Farmer Magazine. They must be returned by May 1 to Ohio Farmer Magazine, 117 W. Main St., Suite 202, Lancaster, OH 43130.

Begun in 1984, the Conservation Farmer Awards Program recognizes farm families who are doing an outstanding job of managing natural and human resources in such a way as to meet the twin goals of production and conservation.

Individual farmers, partnerships, or family farm corporations are eligible for nomination, provided a substantial portion of their income is derived from farming. Judging is based on the nominee's use of new and traditional conservation techniques; comprehensive management; individual initiative in applying conservation measures; and the nominee's willingness to share conservation information, experiences and philosophy with others.

Five area finalists will be chosen from around the state. These top conservation farm families will be recognized at the annual Farm Science Review in September. They will also receive a $400 check courtesy of the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation and be featured in the September issue of Ohio Farmer Magazine.

Agriculture is Ohio largest industry and the largest land user in the state. Nearly 60 percent of Ohio's land is used for crop production and pasture. Not surprisingly, farming has a big impact on the state's land, water, woodland and wildlife resources. The key to maintaining a balance between this important industry's contribution to Ohio's economy and the environment is conservation and wise resource management.