TSCRA-nominated cattle operation wins regional envirnomental stewardship award

TSCRA Daily News Update, July 18, 2008

TSCRA-nominated cattle operation wins regional environmental stewardship award

In a July 17 statement, the National Cattlemen's Foundation 2008 Environmental Stewardship Award Selection Committee announced this year's regional award winners -- diverse family cattle operations from across the United States.

"These families have successfully conducted stewardship practices that serve as exemplary models for all cattle producers. They are actively working to protect and improve the environment and have proven that stewardship and good business can go hand-in-hand," the committee's chairman, Dave Petty, stated.

The seven regional winners have made extensive efforts to work closely with their local communities and government agencies, conservation and wildlife organizations including The Nature Conservancy, to assist in the development of conservation practices and protecting valuable rangelands.

"They have seen the value in building partnerships that strengthen their operation. These folks showcase how the implementation of cooperative research efforts, educational events and government programs can really pay off. We are also proud to announce that 2008 marks the 18th year of the Environmental Stewardship Award," said Petty. "Over the years, we have seen an exceptional number of applications, and we look forward to the continued growth of this prestigious award."

The committee also thanked Dow AgroSciences LCC, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for their dedication to sponsoring the award, which honors environmental innovation and perseverance among U.S. cattle producers.

The 2008 Regional Environmental Stewardship Award Winners are...

-Region I: Sennett Cattle Co, Waynetown, Indiana
Nominated by Indiana Cattlemen’s Association

-Region II: Yon Family Farms, Ridge Springs, South Carolina
Nominated by Saluda County Soil and Water Conservation District

-Region III: Guge Family Farm, Estherville, Iowa
Nominated by Iowa Cattlemen's Association

-Region IV: Bradley 3 Ranch, Memphis, Texas
Nominated by Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association

-Region V: Veseth Cattle Co, Malta, Montana
Nominated by Montana Stock Growers Association

-Region VI: Babacomari Ranch, Sonoita, Arizona
Nominated by Robinett Rangeland Resources

-Region VII: Hovde Ranch, Alexander, North Dakota
Nominated by North Dakota Stockmen’s Association

The 2008 Environmental Stewardship Award Selection Committee consists of past award winners, university faculty, federal and state government agencies, conservation and environmental organizations.

The program is administered by the National Cattlemen's Foundation. For more information on the award, visit www.environmentalstewardship.org.

The 2008 National Winner will be selected from one of the seven regional winners and revealed at the 2008 Cattle Industry Convention in Phoenix, Ariz. in January.