ICGA HONORS DAVE MOOSE FOR COMMITMENT TO ENVIRONMENT

Tricia Braid

Dec 31, 2015  |  Today's News

The Illinois Corn Growers Association has awarded Dave Moose, a farmer from Auburn, Ill., with the Association’s Environment Award. The award recognizes individuals who exhibit commitment to conservation and environmental preservation. Immediate past-president Kenneth Hartman, Jr., made the award at ICGA’s annual meeting.

“Dave has been a valued partner as we seek to improve water quality around Springfield, IL,” said Hartman. “His perspective as a farmer who has used some of these best management practices for years and years is so important for other farmers who have questions and are considering implementing them on their own farms. We are so appreciative of his help.”

Moose grows corn and soybeans in Sangamon County. On his 1,400 acres he has used no-till and strip-till for the past 31 years and has just started his fourth year of cover crops on a majority of his acres.

He has made a commitment to these practices for several reasons: he sees yield benefits, soil health benefits, erosion control, nutrient sequestration, and lower costs for his labor, fuel, and machinery.

Dave says, “God gave me this wonderful, food-producing factory that I want to maintain and improve for myself and for those who follow me.”

“Our thanks and appreciation to Dave for his commitment to the environment.  He certainly deserves this honor!” said Hartman.

ICGA supports the adoption of voluntary best management practices on Illinois farms so that we may all work together to achieve the goals of the Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy, with the first interim goal being a 15% reduction in nitrate loss by 2025. For more information on the NLRS and what it means to Illinois farmers, visit www.IllinoisCBMP.org