JDC Soil & Water Conservation District members recognized Mr. Milton Thompson with the 2015 Outstandin Conservationist Award and Queen Sutton with the 2015 Outstanding Grassland Small Ruminent Grower Award at their 46th annual membership meeting and banquet held at the M.G. Dyess Multipurpose building in Bassfield.

Thompson was recognized as an individual who has mastered the Art of Farming.

His soil test showed he needed lime and fertilizer.  After applying the lime and fertilizer, he planted 100 to 150 acres of soybeans and has planted 30 acres of longleaf pine on some of the most erosive areas.  He sprays to control grass and weeds and has some of the cleanest soybean fields in the county.

He solicits the assistance of the Natural Resources Conservation Service in an effort to stay in compliance with the Farm Bill.
Sutton is recognized as an individual who is dedicated to making a run at raising meat goats.  An upcoming niche market that’s getting worldwide attention.

She has devoted time to the learning process of maintaining a healthy herd of goats by working managing nutrition (food), providing clean water (water troughs), facilities and equipment management (sheds and grooming equipment for appearance).

A winning goat is a combination of good selection, good nutrition management and proper grooming for outstanding showmanship.
Those attending the meeting were treated to a concert by The Gloryland Quartet from Brookhaven.

The JDC Soil & Water Conservation District Commissioners oversee the county’s watersheds and assist landowners and land users in partnership with the Natural Resources Conservation Service.

These services varied during the year from working with farmers, individuals, professional consultants, homeowners or students, some of which included technical assistance to over 300 landowners, developing acreage appropriate conservation plans, providing seminars for wildlife and horse management, Firewise program information, and distributing EQIP funds.