Approximately 200 farmers, family members, conservation partners, and guests gathered during the Indiana State Fair on August 18, 2026 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.
Farmers in southeast Indiana who received the award are
Doug and Julia Holtcamp- Dearborn County
John and Jane Lech- Dearborn County
David and Becky Jackson- Ohio County
