Butler County farmer nominated for Conservation Award

BUTLER COUNTY, Ky. – A Butler County farm is being recognized for its commitment to conservation and sustainable farming practices.

Shane and Felicia Wells of Rochester have been named finalists for the Kentucky Leopold Conservation Award, which honors farmers and forestland owners who demonstrate outstanding stewardship of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat.

According to organizers, the Wells family is one of three finalists being considered for the statewide award.

The family farms more than 1,600 acres and uses conservation practices such as no-till farming, vertical tillage and cover crops to help prevent soil erosion and improve soil health.

Wells, a fifth-generation farmer, says his family’s approach to conservation has been passed down through generations.

“My grandfather always said, ‘If you take care of the land, the land will take care of you,’” Wells said. “We’ve used that thinking not only to maintain the land, but to improve it so it’s here for the next generation to farm.”

The recipient of the Kentucky Leopold Conservation Award will be announced in July during the Kentucky Association of Conservation Districts Annual Convention. The winner will receive a $10,000 prize.